About the Chamber

• What is a Chamber of Commerce? A Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to protecting and improving the business climate and quality of life within a specific region. Although Chambers often work with large public agencies, they’re not departments of any government organization.
  The Asheville Chamber is a partnership of over 1,700 businesses, organizations and coalitions that work toward common goals of supporting the community and fellow businesses. Our mission is building community through business.
  To build your business, to develop the economy, to build the future we want for ourselves and our families and neighbors in Asheville, the Asheville Chamber serves as:
  • The catalyst for strengthening the local economy
  • The convener and cultivator of leaders and influencers who represent business and the community’s best interests
  • And the champion for a thriving community.
• When was the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce founded? In 1898, 65 area businesses came together to promote the interests of business and formed the Board of Trade, later to become the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.
• What are the benefits of joining the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce? We offer members various opportunities to connect with peers, government officials and business leaders. Members receive timely, relevant information to stay informed; professional development workshops and seminars to gain valuable knowledge and skills; and policy and communications expertise to assist in advocating positions and business interests. Learn more.
• Does the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce endorse candidates or have a PAC? No. We’re a nonpartisan organization and don’t endorse political candidates, maintain a PAC or participate in campaign activities. We’re committed to educating our members on issues that impact the competitiveness of our region and the ability of local companies to hire, grow and prosper. Through advocacy efforts, we provide resources to help members make informed voting decisions and get engaged on pressing business community issues.
• Is the Chamber funded by room tax? No. Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau is a separate nonprofit charged with marketing Asheville as a destination. It is funded by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, has the official oversight of the room tax.  Tourism is an important sector of our diverse economy, and many of our Chamber members are in the hospitality industry including accommodations, retail and attractions. The Asheville Chamber owns and operates the Asheville Visitor Center which connects more than 200,000 visitors to local businesses throughout the year.
• Is the Asheville Area Chamber a member of the US Chamber? We’re a non-partisan organization focused on job creation. We find the discussion of membership in the US Chamber to be a distraction from that goal. Therefore, it was the staff’s recommendation that we not renew our membership with the US Chamber as of October 2011. This is not a political statement but one of expediency to remain focused on the attraction and creation of jobs.