2026 Chamber of the Year Finalists: Category Two

Since 2007, ACCE has annually recognized chambers of commerce for their work leading businesses and communities with the Chamber of the Year award. As the needs of businesses and communities continue to evolve, a chamber's ability to adapt, thrive and think strategically is paramount to achieving success and spurring economic growth. Here’s a look at a few programs that helped earn these chambers a spot as a Chamber of the Year finalist in Category Two.

You can watch all the finalists' short overview videos on YouTube.

Boone Area Chamber of Commerce | Boone, North Carolina

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is supporting the early childhood workforce through Childcare for Childcare Workers. The initiative provides tuition assistance for child care workers, helping stabilize providers and keep working families connected to care. 

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation raised and distributed more than $75,000, assisted 18 child care workers, covered tuition for 22 children and supported 100% of licensed child care centers and afterschool programs in Watauga County.

Howell Area Chamber of Commerce | Howell, Michigan

The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce is supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses through the Livingston Business HUB. Developed in response to shifting business needs after COVID-19, the HUB provides practical education, peer connection, resource pathways and layered programming for businesses at different stages. 

The initiative has served more than 90 businesses and engaged over 250 participants, with reported outcomes of revenue growth, business expansion and job creation.

Jackson County Chamber | Jackson, Michigan

The Jackson County Chamber is advancing a long-term community vision through Drive Jackson, a strategic plan focused on coordinated action across key priorities. The plan addresses quality of place, education and learning, housing and economic vitality, and a safe and healthy community.

Many initiatives for Drive Jackson are underway, including work on outdoor recreation, storytelling, talent attraction, workforce development, housing and economic development. 

Chambers of commerce qualify for Chamber of the Year through a rigorous multi-stage process that evaluates organizational performance, operations and programmatic work. Applicants are grouped by budget category, reviewed by peer chamber executives and finalists complete an interview with experienced chamber professionals, with conflict-of-interest policies in place to ensure a fair competition. Learn more.

Read more about finalists from other categories: Category One | Category Three | Category Four

Learn who will be the Category Two Chamber of the Year at the #ACCE26 Awards Show on Tuesday, July 21 in New Orleans.
The Chamber of the Year program is sponsored by GrowthZone. Can’t make it? Follow @ACCEHQ on any social media platform to see who wins as it happens!