What Benefits Are There for a Nonprofit?

When people think of the Chamber of Commerce, they often picture local businesses, storefronts, and service providers. But here’s something many don’t realize:

Nonprofits are a vital part of the Chamber community—especially here in Montgomery County.

At the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, we proudly support dozens of nonprofit organizations across Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford, and the greater New River Valley. From health clinics and food pantries to arts organizations and educational initiatives, nonprofits are a powerful part of our local economy—and they deserve access to the same tools, connections, and visibility as for-profit businesses.

If you’re part of a nonprofit, here’s why joining the Chamber could be one of your most impactful decisions this year.

Yes—Nonprofits Absolutely Join the Chamber

Let’s clear this up right away.

Chambers aren’t just for profit-seeking enterprises. They’re for community builders, and nonprofits are at the heart of that mission.

In fact, the Montgomery County Chamber:

• Has a dedicated nonprofit membership tier

• Hosts nonprofit-specific networking events and roundtables

• Highlights local nonprofit needs in our newsletter and social media

• Partners with nonprofits to elevate causes and programs

• Includes nonprofits in all major community events and initiatives

If you serve people in this region, the Chamber is for you too.

Why Should a Nonprofit Join?

You might be thinking, “We’re not selling a product or competing for clients. What does a Chamber do for us?”

Here’s the answer: A lot.

Let’s walk through the benefits.

1. Visibility That Supports Fundraising and Awareness

Getting your message out is critical in the nonprofit world. Chamber membership helps your organization:

• Appear in the member directory, trusted by residents, donors, and partners

• Be featured in newsletters, social media, and spotlight articles

• Gain referrals when community members ask how they can help or where to donate

• Host events or fundraisers in partnership with other Chamber members

Whether you're trying to increase program participation or build name recognition among potential donors, we help you get seen—and remembered.

2. Access to Businesses That Want to Give Back

Many businesses in Montgomery County are actively looking for nonprofit partners.

Through the Chamber, you’ll meet:

• Potential sponsors for your events or initiatives

• Board members and volunteers who care about your cause

• Collaborators for grant projects or shared programs

• Supporters who can amplify your mission

And because you're in the room—at mixers, luncheons, and leadership events—you can forge these connections organically.

3. Capacity-Building Support

Nonprofits often operate with lean teams and limited time. That’s why we offer access to:

• Workshops and trainings on marketing, fundraising, board development, and HR

• Leadership programs for staff and board members

• Peer support from other nonprofit professionals in the Chamber

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Through the Chamber, you can tap into best practices and experienced voices from across the region.

4. Advocacy for Issues That Matter to You

Nonprofits face their own set of policy challenges—funding, access, infrastructure, education, and more.

The Chamber advocates for:

• Policies that support nonprofit growth and sustainability

• Increased access to public funding opportunities

• Workforce pipelines that benefit service-based missions

• Broadband, transportation, and infrastructure that support your programs

When nonprofits are at the table, the whole community benefits. And we make sure your voice is there.

5. Participation in Major Events

The Chamber organizes a wide range of community-facing events and initiatives. As a nonprofit member, you can:

• Host booths or tables to promote your programs

• Participate in GiveLocalNRV promotions

• Be recognized at our Annual Meeting & Awards

• Sponsor events or be featured as a nonprofit of the month

These platforms introduce your work to audiences that might never find you otherwise.

6. Join a Community of Support

Running a nonprofit is incredibly rewarding—and incredibly demanding. Chamber membership gives you access to a community of peers and champions who understand your challenges and want to help.

You’re not in this alone.

You’ll find other nonprofit professionals, business leaders who care deeply about impact, and Chamber staff who are always ready to help you navigate resources, opportunities, or obstacles.

But What About the Cost?

We get it—budgets are tight.

That’s why we offer an affordable nonprofit membership tier, designed to ensure you get high value for a manageable investment. Your dues support our work—but they also come back to you in the form of exposure, support, and connection.

Need to talk through options? We’re happy to help.

Email us at: marketing@montgomerycc.org

Real Impact, Real Results

Nonprofit members of the Montgomery County Chamber have:

• Gained new volunteers and board members

• Increased event attendance through Chamber promotion

• Partnered with businesses on fundraising campaigns

• Strengthened their grant applications through local collaboration

• Found trusted vendors for printing, accounting, and strategic planning

Chamber membership opens doors—and keeps them open.

How to Join

Ready to get started?

Here’s how:

• Apply online at: www.montgomerycc.org

• Talk with our team about the best fit: marketing@montgomerycc.org

• Check out what’s happening next: https://business.montgomerycc.org/events/calendar

We’ll walk you through every step.