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Membership

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Beyond the Events:
Why Chamber Memership Works for You

We get it—running a business is demanding. The idea of adding one more thing to your plate (or budget) might seem impossible. But here’s the truth: Chamber membership isn’t just another event on your calendar—it’s an investment that works behind the scenes, even when you’re not actively involved.

Many think Chamber membership is all about attending luncheons, ribbon cuttings, and networking mixers. But the real value? It runs much deeper.

Like a gym membership, some business owners might think, “I didn’t really use it.” But even when you're not attending events, your Chamber is hard at work—advocating for your business, boosting your visibility, and connecting you to valuable resources. Every day, your local Chamber receives calls from individuals and businesses seeking vendors, and Chamber members are typically recommended first.

Here’s What You’re Getting (Even If You Never Attend an Event):

Your Chamber Membership: A Smart Investment in Your Business

Small businesses make up the backbone of most local Chambers, and research from The Shapiro Group, Inc. and Market Street Services highlights the powerful impact of Chamber membership. According to their study, businesses that are members of their local Chamber experience:

✅ 44% boost in consumer favorability
✅ 51% increase in consumer awareness
✅ 57% improvement in local reputation
✅ 63% higher likelihood that customers will choose your business

Beyond consumer impact, Chamber membership strengthens business-to-business connections—fellow businesses are more likely to work with you when you’re an active part of the local business community.

But here’s the key: simply joining isn’t enough. Like any investment, the more you put in, the more you get out. Engaging in Chamber initiatives, attending events, and getting involved in committees will maximize your membership’s value.

Ready to grow your business and strengthen your connections? Get involved today and start seeing the benefits of Chamber membership firsthand!

New Member Benefits

Committees

Opportunities for networking and community involvement are the most important benefits the Chamber has to offer our members on an individual basis. There are a wide range of committees to get you involved. Contact information@baychamberfl.com to learn more.

  • Ambassadors
  • Bay Chamber Connect Groups
  • Bay Young Professionals
  • Governmental Affairs
  • Membership Appreciation Month Task Force
  • Junior Leadership Bay
  • Leadership Bay
  • Leadership Bay Alumni
  • First Responders Appreciation Task Force
  • Military Affairs Committee (MAC)
  • Tourism Appreciation Month (TAM) Task Force

Member Testimonials

The Bay County Chamber of Commerce has been invaluable in helping me connect with the local community. The leadership team is always there to answer questions, share resources, and connect my team with opportunities we might have missed on our own. The Bay County Chamber team also advocates for Bay County interests in Tallahassee and keeps members informed of important legislative updates. Being a member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce is more than just joining an organization—it’s becoming part of a strong, engaged business family. We’re proud to be members and grateful for the services, support, and leadership the Chamber provides to businesses across Bay County.

Dani Streichert
Licensed Insurance Agent
Peoples First Insurance Services, LLC

As one of the largest manufacturers in Bay County, our challenges are somewhat unique to the area. Over the last few years, the Chamber staff has generously provided guidance and assistance in a number of our key initiatives that promote growth in our business. Improved business results has allowed us to increase our full time employee base which improves the local economy. Whether your business is small or large, I strongly encourage a membership with Bay County Chamber of Commerce!

Katherine Naumann,
Human Resources Leader
Trane

When I started my business one of the very first things I did was join the Bay County Chamber of Commerce because I knew from my previous employer what it could do for my business. We could not have achieved the level of success that we have today without the lasting relationships that we have cultivated through the chamber of commerce throughout the years. The chamber has provided me the opportunity to make my entrepreneurial dreams into a reality. I encourage businesses to not only join the chamber but to also make the investment of their time into the organization to really recognize the full benefits of membership.

Aaron Rich, Owner
Aaron Rich Marketing/ARCIECHX

I'm Tony Zapata, the owner of Emerald Coast Cleans, and I'm proud to be a member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. For almost a year, I've had the privilege of seeing firsthand the incredible value the Chamber provides. The frequent networking events and ribbon cuttings are more than just social gatherings; they are powerful opportunities to get to know other local business leaders. Thanks to these connections, I've been able to expand my professional circle, find new clients, and build a stronger foundation for my business. The Chamber is an essential resource for any business in Bay County looking to grow and thrive.

Tony Zapata
Owner
Emerald Coast Cleans

The Eye Center of North Florida is a proud and supportive member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. Our membership allows us the opportunity to network and work alongside like-minded individuals who truly care about the business community and the overall well being of Bay County. We are pleased to support an organization which is focused on sustaining, growing and supporting local businesses and positively impacting our community. The Chamber has always been and continues to be an invaluable resource. We are thrilled to be involved with such a vibrant, connected, and quality organization and look forward to our continued membership and all the benefits it has to offer.

Kristina Williams, Director of Marketing
Eye Center of North Florida

As I look back at the last ten years and examine reasons for my company’s growth, I can certainly say a huge part of our success has been our relationship with the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and its thriving membership base. The Chamber staff is a wonderful group of individuals who work tirelessly to help businesses in our community succeed in every way possible. This truly is a powerful organization to be part of and I am thankful for the partnership that we have formed.

Mark McKinney, Agency Owner
Allstate – McKinney Insurance & Investments

Joining the Chamber of Commerce was one of the best decisions I ever made. Thank for the opportunities to make friends, to establish positive working relationships, and make our community a great place to enjoy life!

Stan Peacock P.A.,
Attorney & Counselor of Law

At Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, a central focus is supporting our local communities. We view our communities—along with associates, customers, and consumers—as integral members of the Coca-Cola UNITED family. The Bay County Chamber has been an invaluable partner, providing Panama City Coca-Cola with an effective channel to engage and serve our community. The Chamber staff has consistently demonstrated excellence, making collaboration both productive and impactful. Through our joint efforts, we have made meaningful contributions to local schools, supported military initiatives, and participated in numerous community projects that have had a lasting, positive effect. I encourage all Chamber members to seek opportunities for involvement. Ultimately, our collective efforts are driven by people and relationships, which are key to strengthening and supporting our local communities.

Paul Corbin,
Area Sales Manager
Coca-Cola Bottling Co. UNITED

Check out the Guide to Membership Opportunities