Membership Benefits
The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a link between your business and the community. Membership in the MACC provides many avenues for networking and developing leadership skills. Your organization will benefit from the strength and stability we provide for area businesses. Here are just a few of the many benefits of membership:
This full-color, glossy guide contains a host of community information and lists members alphabetically and categorically for easy reference. The membership guide is distributed throughout the community and region, to local hotels, new Macomb residents, and at WIU student and faculty orientations as a handy reference to your business. We distribute 3,000 copies of our Community Guide & Business Directory every year! Only member businesses are included. You can view a digital version of our print directory here.
As a member, your business will be listed on our website alphabetically and by business category in the online business directory. This is the most visited page on our website with thousands of visitors every month! You can edit your directory listing in the Member Information Center (MIC) to include information, keywords, photos, links, and more! You can also add job postings and events to our online community calendar, which are the second and third most frequented pages on our website!
In existence since the mid 80’s, our gift certificate program keeps nearly $200,000 of gift giving in our local economy each year. Over 140 businesses participate in the program, realizing that accepting our gift certificates is money in their registers. Gift Certificates are sold in any amount, have no expiration date, and are the perfect gift for everyone.
Business After Hours is held monthly from 4:30-6:00 p.m. at a member business location. This event allows members an opportunity to meet and network with fellow business leaders. There are always drawings and winnings...a wonderful mix of business and pleasure at the end of a work day.
Business Before Hours is held quarterly from 8-9 a.m. This event gives our members another opportunity for networking. Perfect for those that might have a full agenda after work!
Macomb Business Academy (MBA) is a program designed to develop leadership potential within the community to meet the demands of tomorrow. MBA identifies emerging leaders within the Macomb area and provides a broad view of civic leadership through direct contact with the leaders and institutions shaping the community. The program runs from September through November with weekly, two-hour sessions. Participants will expand their knowledge and contacts within their community. For more information and upcoming sessions, visit the Macomb Business Academy webpage.
The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce is a cornerstone of business development and education in the community. Through its online resources businesses can access valuable information conveniently. The Chamber also hosts educational workshops and seminars, providing essential skills for success. Additionally, timely email updates keep members informed on pertinent topics affecting businesses. By offering these services, the Chamber empowers businesses to thrive and contribute to the local economy effectively.
The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce has several committees that are open to any employee of our members. These include our Young Professionals of Macomb (YPM), Government Affairs, Ambassadors, and Transportation Committees.
The Chamber is your representative on the local, regional, state and national level. Every spring MACC members meet with legislators in Springfield regarding current issues and their effect on Macomb’s businesses and overall quality of life. All members are invited to join us - we even rent a bus to get everyone down to Springfield!
The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce plays a pivotal role in driving workforce development within the Macomb area, where the demand for skilled labor is high. Collaborating closely with community partners such as the city of Macomb, MAEDCO, and the Workforce Board of Western Illinois, the Chamber spearheads various initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between job seekers and employers. One of its flagship events, the annual job fair Jobapalooza, serves as a platform for connecting local talent with employment opportunities. Under the guidance of Executive Director Lauren Merritt, whose expertise is bolstered by her graduation from the esteemed U.S. Chamber Business Leads Fellowship Program, the Chamber navigates workforce challenges with strategic insight and fosters a vibrant economic ecosystem where businesses thrive and individuals find fulfilling careers.
Ribbon cuttings are a great way to get your business in the spotlight! If you are a member of the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce, you are eligible to schedule a ribbon cutting. They aren't just for new businesses, either! There are many occasions when it is appropriate to schedule a ribbon cutting:
- New Business
- New Chamber Member
- Milestone Anniversaries
- New Locations
- Remodeling and/or Expansion
- New Ownership
For more information, visit our ribbon cutting webpage!
As a member you will receive a monthly, digital newsletter highlighting a variety of Macomb Area Chamber updates, events, marketing options, and the latest issues directly impacting you, your business, and the community. All you need to know, all in one spot. You can view past newsletters here.
A frequent stop for visitors and callers, the Chamber staff refers exclusively to our membership.
The Macomb Police Department notifies us of any fraudulent activity occurring in the community. We will immediately notify your business via email with specific information pertaining to the incident.
