Last week more than 80 attendees came together for our first Chamber 101 event of 2026! It was a great afternoon spent connecting with both members and those interested in membership as we dove deeper into how to fully leverage your Grand Rapids Chamber membership.
During this interactive presentation, we covered:
Who We Are & What Makes Us Unique
We shared an overview of the Grand Rapids Chamber and our work as the hub of business growth and prosperity in West Michigan for ALL.
As a relentless advocate for businesses on issues that shape our business climate, we are dedicated to creating spaces for connections, insights, and resources that make running your business easier.
Member Benefits & Resources
Attendees explored key tools available to them, including:
- Optimizing visibility through our Member Directory and other SEO boosting opportunities
- Events calendar and networking opportunities
- Member benefits, cost savings benefits, and partnerships
- Job board, coupons, and sponsorship/advertising opportunities
- Utilizing the Chamber’s collaborative office space for your teams needs
Tip: Keep your directory listings up-to-date, and utilize the Grand Rapids Chamber website as a visibility tool.
Access & Involvement
Chamber membership includes all employees of your company. Increase your team’s engagement by:
- Ensuring your staff is aware of and encouraged to use your membership
- Attending signature events and networking programs
- Joining councils and committees
- Develop & retain teams by tapping into leadership programs (with Spring 2026 registration now open)
- Connecting directly with their Membership Engagement Manager for a personalized approach to your engagement
Staff Panel & Member Insights
Our panel of Chamber staff and Ambassador Council members provided practical insight on how to:
- Build meaningful, relationship-driven connections
- Leverage sponsorships and visibility opportunities
- Engage in advocacy and policy initiatives
- Connect with community and understand systems through Chamber programming
- Take small, intentional steps to build momentum quickly
The Grand Rapid Chamber is working for our members, and that value only grows with engagement. The more intentional you are about showing up, connecting, and utilizing available resources, the more impact you’ll see for your business and team.
Take the Next Step
Connect with your Membership Engagement Manager who is your dedicated point person to craft your strategic engagement to optimize your membership for 2026!
For any additional questions or if you are ready to explore membership, contact Amanda Hentsch, Senior Director of Membership, at amanda@grandrapids.org or (616)771-0340