Bay Chamber Connect Groups
Build Relationships. Share Referrals. Grow Your Business.
Some of the best business opportunities begin with a conversation.
Bay Chamber Connect Groups bring Chamber members together in smaller, relationship-focused groups designed to help participants get to know one another, understand each other's businesses, and create opportunities through referrals and business leads.
Unlike a large networking event where you may only have a few minutes with someone, Connect Groups give members the opportunity to build relationships over time.
Because when people know your business, understand what you do, and trust the way you do it, they're more likely to recommend you.
Networking With a Purpose
More Than Exchanging Business Cards
Bay Chamber Connect isn't about collecting business cards. It's about building a network of Chamber members who actively look for opportunities to help one another succeed.
Members meet monthly to strengthen relationships, learn about each other's businesses, and exchange referrals and business leads.
Participants are encouraged to contribute to the group by bringing a referral, sharing a business lead, or introducing a guest.
The goal is simple: turn Chamber connections into meaningful business relationships.
Why Join a Connect Group?
Become the Business People Think Of
When someone asks, “Do you know someone who can help me with that?” you want your business to come to mind.
Connect Groups give you the opportunity to consistently build relationships with professionals who can become advocates for your business.
Build Stronger Business Relationships
Get to know other Chamber members beyond a quick introduction at an event.
Share Opportunities
Help fellow members grow by sharing leads, referrals, and valuable introductions.
Generate Referrals
Create a trusted network of professionals who understand your business and can confidently refer others to you.
Discover Other Businesses
Learn about the products, services, and expertise available within the Chamber membership.
Increase Your Visibility
Keep your business top-of-mind with other professionals throughout Bay County.
Strengthen Your Chamber Connections
Become more actively involved in the Chamber and build relationships that extend beyond monthly meetings.
One Business Category. One Seat.
Meaningful Connections Without Direct Competition
One of the defining benefits of Bay Chamber Connect is category exclusivity.
Each group is structured to include only one representative from a particular business category, such as banking, insurance, or real estate.
This approach helps create an environment where members can build referral relationships without directly competing with another representative in the same category.
Members may participate in only one Connect Group at a time.
Category availability is determined by the Chamber and may vary by group.
Find Your Connect Group
Three Groups. One Goal: Helping Members Grow.
Connect Groups meet monthly over lunch, providing a consistent opportunity to develop relationships and share business opportunities.
Connect Group 1
Second Wednesday of Each Month
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sonny's BBQ
2240 Highway 77
Lynn Haven, FL
Group Chair: Zach Gilmore, Florida SBDC at UWF
Connect Group 2
First Thursday of Each Month
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
One Thirty One Events by Trigo's
131 Harrison Ave.
Panama City, FL
Group Chair: Pam Turley, Kirkland Insurance Agency
Connect Group 3
Third Tuesday of Each Month
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Yume Ramen
1000 E 23rd St, Ste A10
Panama City, FL
Group Chair: TBD
Meeting locations, dates, and availability may change. Please confirm the current meeting details and category availability with the Chamber before attending.
What to Expect
Show Up. Participate. Make Connections.
Connect Groups are designed to be active, relationship-driven networking opportunities.
1. Find the Right Group
Contact the Chamber to learn which Connect Group has availability for your business category.
2. Attend Consistently
Regular participation gives fellow members the opportunity to learn about your business and build trust over time.
3. Share Opportunities
Members are encouraged to bring a referral, share a business lead, or invite a guest to experience the group.
4. Build Lasting Relationships
Continue developing connections that can lead to referrals, collaboration, and new business opportunities.
Who Can Join?
A Member Benefit Designed for Business Growth
Bay Chamber Connect Groups are available exclusively to Bay County Chamber of Commerce members in good standing.
Participation is subject to business-category availability, and each member may belong to only one Connect Group.
Guests may be invited in accordance with the group's participation guidelines.
Whether you're building a new business, expanding your professional network, or looking for ways to become more involved in the Chamber, Connect Groups offer a consistent place to build relationships that can lead to meaningful opportunities.
Ready to Make the Connection?
Your Next Business Opportunity Could Start Here.
Your next customer, referral partner, or valuable business relationship may already be part of the Bay County Chamber.
Find the Connect Group that's right for your business and start turning introductions into relationships — and relationships into opportunities.
For more information or to check availability for your business category, contact:
Tamara Barnes
Vice President of Membership
Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Phone: (850) 215-3791
Email: tamara@baychamberfl.com
Building a Better Bay — One Connection at a Time.