Sign up for news on our events

CWU/Community Web Site

Q&A with the Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce

What every member should know about the Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce.

1. Who is the Chamber?

The Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit association of business and professional people. While our original purpose is to serve as a voice for the business community, we’re active today in many other areas as well. For example, we promote business through events and festivals that also add to Ellensburg’s quality of life. We work closely with the Kittitas County Economic Development Group and the Ellensburg Downtown Association to actively seek businesses for location in our community and to help existing businesses where needed. We’re in charge of Ellensburg’s tourism promotion and have seen a solid growth in tourist related lodging and services over the past several years. We administer over 17 committees and task forces that address everything from street signs to golf tournaments. We use our bargaining power to negotiate long distance phone discounts and credit card processing services for our members. Every day something we do touches nearly everyone in Ellensburg. And we’ve been doing it for nearly a century.

2. How big is the Chamber?

There are approximately 400 members, 3 full-time staff, and a budget of over $350,000.

3. Who runs the Chamber?

Policy is set by a Board of Directors, who are elected by the membership and represent all segments of the local business economy. Most serve three-year elected terms (renewable for another term), others fill shorter, appointed terms. Policy is executed by the Executive Director, who also oversees day-to-day Chamber operations. Assisting is a staff of two and several volunteers.

4. What’s the best way to get the most from my membership?

Glad you asked. Our most satisfied members are those who are involved and attend meetings and activities, and who use the Chamber’s resources for information and business promotion. We’ve long believed that business is a full contact sport and the Chamber is the perfect place to make contacts with potential customers. Your contacts are limited, however, if you don’t get involved.

5. If I’m busy and can’t attend an event, may my employees attend?

All of them are encouraged to attend any Chamber event. In fact, some of our programs are aimed at employees and not employers.

6. When are meetings held?

Committees and task forces meet at varying times each month. Regularly scheduled meetings are:

• Membership Forums - held once a quarter. The Forums feature speakers of interest to business and the community.
• Board of Directors - held the second Thursday of each month at noon.
• Executive Board - held the first Thursday of each month at noon.
• Business After Hours - held the third Thursday of each month from 5pm-7pm. These gatherings are social and business events that bring members together to meet, make new business contacts, and discuss issues with Chamber leaders.
• Kittitas County Breakfast Club - held the third Wednesday of each month at 7am. Speakers are booked that provide helpful information to our business community.
• Tourism - meets at 4pm on the 2nd Monday of each month at the Chamber office.
• Government Affairs - meets at noon on the 1st Monday of each month

7. How do I advertise through the Chamber?

• Chamber Exchange is our monthly newsletter, with a mailing list of over 550. Inserts are available for $85 or ads are available for as little as $40 per issues.
• Chamber Membership Directory with a circulation of 50,000 per year includes a community profile and membership business listings targeted to new and prospective residents.
• Chamber Membership Mailing Labels can help you target Chamber members with your own mailing. New members receive a set free of charge (on request). Additional sets may be purchased for $15.
• Web Pages are available to each Chamber member, for $100 a year. Call the Chamber office for details.
• Web Pages Banners on our web site are also available for $50 a month.
• The Chamber Map & Visitor's Guide provides a great place to market your business to new residents and visitors.

8. How do I join a committee or task force?

Members are invited to join any committee or task force that fits their needs or interests. Please contact the Chamber office so we can direct you to the proper committee chairperson to get the details and meeting times.

9. Does the Chamber endorse political candidates?

No. Chamber policy is to study and take action on issues and initiatives that affect our members and/or the community, but to leave the election of candidates to individuals. The Chamber needs to be able to work cooperatively with whoever is elected, and that cannot be accomplished if endorsements are made.

10. Is the Chamber affiliated with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce?

No, the two organizations have no connection. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce takes stands on behalf of major corporations that, we have learned, are frequently at odds with the interests of small business.

11. Is the Chamber affiliated with the Association of Washington Business?

Yes, the Chamber is a member of AWB. AWB lobbies and represents Washington business at the state level. AWB’s superb informational services are available to all Chamber members through our office.

12. What is the Chamber's relationship with local government?

The Chamber is a private, non-profit association and is not connected with local government. However, there are many opportunities to work with City Council and City staff on a variety of issues. One of the Chamber’s major functions is communicating business concerns to local government.

Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce
609 North Main Street
Ellensburg WA 98926
(888) 925-2204, (509) 925-3138, (509) 962-6148 fax
 info@ellensburg-chamber.com

All contents copyright Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Site by Goeben Design http://goeben.com