When people hear “Chamber of Commerce,” they often think of ribbon cuttings or networking events. And while those are certainly part of the experience, the role of a Chamber goes much deeper—and much wider.

At the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, we serve hundreds of businesses across Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford, and the New River Valley. Our work is strategic, community-driven, and always focused on helping businesses and nonprofits thrive.

So what are the five primary functions of a Chamber of Commerce? Think of them as pillars—each one supporting the broader mission of regional success.

1. Advocacy

One of the most essential (and often underappreciated) roles of a Chamber is advocacy.

We don’t just listen to the concerns of local business owners—we speak up for them. That includes:

• Monitoring legislation and regulatory changes at the local and state level

• Representing member interests in town and county meetings

• Meeting with state delegates and economic development partners

• Writing letters of support or testimony when needed

• Ensuring that small and mid-sized businesses have a seat at the table

When decisions are being made that impact business—whether it’s infrastructure, zoning, taxes, or education—we’re there to represent you.

2. Networking and Connection

Chambers are known for their ability to bring people together—and for good reason.

In today’s world, connection is currency. Relationships drive business growth, referrals, partnerships, and community trust.

We host dozens of events each year to help our members meet, collaborate, and thrive. These include:

• Business After Hours

• Small Business Workshops, Lunch & Learns, and Eggs & Issues

• Industry-specific networking opportunities

• Speed Networking Social

• Ribbon cuttings and milestone celebrations

Whether you’re looking to grow your client list, build referral partners, or just find people who understand your challenges, we create the spaces for that to happen.

View upcoming events here:
https://business.montgomerycc.org/events/calendar

3. Promotion and Visibility

Your business can be the best-kept secret in town—or it can be known, trusted, and top of mind.

Our job is to make sure it’s the latter.

The Chamber provides promotional support through:

• Online directory listings optimized for SEO

• Social media features and referrals

• Newsletter and email highlights

• Opportunities to sponsor and host events

• Media and community exposure through partnerships

For businesses located near Virginia Tech, in downtown Christiansburg, or around the growing Radford market, visibility matters. We’re here to help ensure the right people find—and remember—you.

4. Education and Resources

Business owners are often expected to wear every hat—marketer, accountant, strategist, HR manager, and beyond. But no one knows everything.

That’s why one of our core functions is to provide ongoing learning opportunities and practical resources.

At the Montgomery County Chamber, we offer:

• Workshops and Lunch & Learns

• Trainings on marketing, HR, finance, and leadership

• Guest speakers and expert panels

• Resource sharing from local partners and statewide programs

• Toolkits for new business owners and nonprofits

We also stay in close contact with New River Community College, Radford University, and Virginia Tech, building bridges that benefit the workforce—and employers—of tomorrow.

If you’re looking to grow as a professional or business owner, we’ve got your back.

5. Economic and Community Development

Last but certainly not least: we are here to grow the region.

Economic development might sound like a big-picture function (and it is), but at the Chamber level, it comes down to small, actionable steps:

• Helping a small business owner find the right location

• Connecting entrepreneurs with grants or incentives

• Working with local government to streamline permitting

• Coordinating with tourism and regional marketing groups

• Promoting development that benefits residents and employers alike

The Montgomery County Chamber plays a unique role as a connector, ensuring the economic vitality of our region remains strong, balanced, and inclusive.

Whether it’s working with local housing partners, supporting access to high-speed internet, or encouraging youth leadership, we’re invested in a thriving future for all.

Why These Five Functions Matter

You might not need all five at once. Some members come for advocacy, others for events. Some join to promote their business, others to build relationships or develop their team.

But the magic of the Chamber is that all these pieces work together to create something greater.

When you join the Chamber, you don’t just get a seat at a monthly luncheon. You get:

• A voice in the decisions that shape our economy

• Access to opportunities you wouldn’t find on your own

• Recognition for the work you’re doing

• Support through every stage of your business

• A partner who sees your success as essential to the success of our region

Ready to Take Advantage of All Five?

You don’t have to wait until your business is "big enough" or your schedule clears. The best time to join—and grow with—the Chamber is now.

Here’s how to get started:

• Explore membership options at: www.montgomerycc.org

• Reach out with questions: marketing@montgomerycc.org

• Join us at an upcoming event: https://business.montgomerycc.org/events/calendar