Networking & Events

Looking back – and looking ahead – with optimism Chamber members celebrated a year of accomplishments at our biggest annual event and volunteer leadership set an optimistic tone for the future. Nearly 1,100 people joined us at University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center on January 26 to honor those volunteers that helped lead the Chamber…

Honoring those who protect us every day Most of us hope that we never need to call on the services of one of our community’s many first responders. But whether it’s the police, sheriffs, firefighters or medical professionals that answer calls for help, they play a critical role in keeping us safe every day. The…

The Reach Campaign begins Year Two The Reach Campaign is off and running for 2017, and the second year of the Chamber’s new efforts officially launched on Sept. 14 with the kickoff event at the Savoy Ballroom. Reach is the Chamber’s reimagined idea to offer members ways to invest in the Chamber and support the…

Keeping you informed about Chamber progress Nearly 450 Chamber members gathered at the Oasis Hotel & Convention Center on August 9 for the Annual Membership Luncheon to hear from Chamber leaders about the progress we’ve made through the first half of 2017. The purpose of the luncheon each year is to keep members informed about…

Helping members launch business and celebrate success Two of the Chamber’s stated goals are to help area businesses and organizations create growth and get connected – so when we’re able to help do both, it’s a double win. That’s why we’re so proud of the ribbon cuttings and ground breakings we help facilitate for our…

Chamber announces 2017 Small Business Award recipient During the Chamber’s annual event on May 3 at University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, Askinosie Chocolate received the 2017 W. Curtis Strube Small Business Award. The small-batch chocolate factory was selected by a panel of independent judges from a group of finalists that included Computer Recycling Center,…

A new approach to marketing The Chamber is always looking for new ways to add value for members and help them make connections. We’re not unique in that regard; all Chambers list those goals among their priorities. But a recent event took a new approach to connecting people, letting them meet and share their stories.…

Celebrating 25 Years of the Small Business Award As the Chamber celebrates 25 years of presenting the annual W. Curtis Strube Small Business Award, we’re taking a look back and talking to some of the award recipients about what it has meant to their organizations. Over the 25 years of the Small Business Award, deserving companies…

A surprise visit from Chamber friends If you saw a limo full of donuts driving around Springfield, you’re not imagining things. It was probably from the Chamber. And keep your eyes peeled – you might just see it again soon! The Chamber has launched the Surprise Patrol, a recurring event where Chamber ambassadors and staff…

Join Us for the 2017 Small Business Award For the 25th year, the Chamber is preparing to recognize five area companies as finalists for the W. Curtis Strube Small Business Award. Here’s a look at this year’s honorees (listed in alphabetical order): Askinosie Chocolate is a small-batch, award-winning chocolate factory founded in 2006. It sources 100…