Beginning in March of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic inflicted significant challenges for businesses to operate and generate revenue. The SACC was uniquely positioned to provide support, resources, and guidance to our members and advocate for local communities. In addition to our traditional benefits, the SACC ramped up new ways to equip members with essential information and strategies to navigate this unprecedented time.
Build Valuable Business Relationships
Business and growth opportunities are often based on a trusted relationship. Get to know who you need to know through our many monthly, quarterly, and annual events.
Engage in Business Advocacy
Advocating for the interests and concerns of its members is a pillar of the SACC mission and a member benefit that is hard to measure yet so valuable. Successful advocacy is built on relationships and strength in numbers. We focus on public policy issues that impact the business climate, build credible, non-partisan relationships with elected leaders, and make connections among local business concerns and key decision-makers. We keep our members informed about relevant issues and seek their input to leverage outcomes that promote economic development and job growth. We are stronger together!
Increase Your Exposure
Membership offers businesses exposure in the SACC online directory, print directory and social media platforms with thousands of followers. You can also submit your press releases to our on-line business journal, SBYBiz, which provides advertising options at very competitive rates. When COVID-19 restrictions hit the restaurant industry hard, the SACC developed our “Delmarva Eats” Facebook page where Eastern Shore restaurants could continually post their menu specials and delivery options to drive patrons to their restaurants. “Curbside Chamber,” brief Q & A videos posted on SACC social media promote our members’ services and news in a fresh, easily accessible format.
Expand Your Access to Decision Makers
Through our special events and speaking engagements, members have access to elected officials on the city, county, and state levels as well as key industry decision-makers. Your involvement is your choice. The opportunity is there because of Chamber creates it.
Acquire Customer Referrals
Participating in our many networking events and lead share groups affords our members opportunities to gain valuable business referrals. Plus, the Chamber refers only Chamber members to the numerous requests for reliable business recommendations we receive.
Advance Your Business Know-How
We engage experts in various industries to lead a wide variety of practical, relevant workshops and training events at no or low cost to our members. Topics have wide appeal for business use. In the COVID-19 era, the SACC offered on-line webinars for operating in the “new normal” such as “COVID- 19 and Business Insurance Claims,” “Understanding OSHA Guidelines for COVID-19 Workplace Safety” and “Exploring Post-Pandemic Success Scenarios for Key Economic Sectors.”
Obtain Membership Discounts
Membership loyalty is a priority with our Chamber. Member businesses offer discounts to one another that can add up to significant savings for your business and you personally. We are also part of a Chamber Energy Purchasing Co-op that can significantly lower your business and residential electricity costs. That savings alone often offsets the cost of membership. Don’t leave money on the table – join our electric co-op!
Attend Chamber Events and Programs
The Chamber hosts a myriad of events and programs that are often free or reduced cost for members, too many to mention here, but include: Business Before and After Hours, Ribbon Cuttings, monthly General Membership Luncheons, and the State of the Wicomico County Public Schools Forum. Due to restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SACC quickly pivoted to provide all of our networking and educational webinars through an on-line platform. When the COVID-19 peak initially passed and business began re-opening, we have offered a hybrid of online and safe, in-person opportunities so that those who wish to continue social distancing have options.
Be Part Of The Action
Our Chamber offers opportunities for its members to have direct involvement in a variety of committees. Through our committees, we enact change and help businesses and communities address their concerns and goals.
Engage in Economic & Community Improvement Initiatives
Our Chamber is continually working toward economic development throughout the Eastern Shore Region. Join our effort to address critical concerns and advocate for new opportunities. We’re stronger together!