Building Confidence, Connection and Community: ACCE’s Sales Coach Program

Applications are now being accepted for ACCE’s 2026 Sales Coach Program. The program, which will run April 15 to October 15, is a mentorship opportunity designed to support chamber professionals who are newer to membership sales and engagement. Each participant will be paired with an experienced membership professional (a volunteer coach) for six months of personalized coaching, peer learning and professional development.

The deadline to apply is March 31. Contact JoAnna Dehler with questions. 

Mentees |  APPLY HERE

• Any professionals responsible for revenue generation qualify as mentees
• All experience levels are welcome and encouraged to apply
• Applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the program by April 9 
• Cost (upon acceptance into the program): $300 (scholarships available) | $750 for nonmembers

Volunteer Coaches | APPLY HERE

• Employees of ACCE member chambers of commerce in good standing are invited to apply
• Coaches will be notified of their acceptance into the program by April 9 
• No cost to serve as a coach

Reflections from the 2025 Sales Coach Program

“Participating in the Sales Coach Program was one of the most valuable professional experiences I’ve had,” said Alyssa Gabriele of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce. “It pushed me to look at membership growth through a new lens, focusing less on transactions and more on connection, storytelling and collaboration.”

That sense of renewed perspective captures the spirit of ACCE’s 2025 Sales Coach Program. Over six months, 17 experienced chamber professionals mentored 17 emerging leaders, pairing guidance with peer-to-peer learning to strengthen membership development skills across the chamber network.

This program of the Membership Development Division focuses on more than sales strategy. It helps participants rediscover their purpose, build confidence and create lasting professional relationships that extend beyond the cohort.

“As a mentor in the Sales Coach Program, I rediscovered my passion for the work we do at the chamber and for our community,” said Cam Jackson of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce (Ala.). “It was refreshing to support another chamber professional, share best practices and pass along lessons I’ve learned along the way.”

Mentees said the experience was equally transformative. “I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to reach that next level,” said Dominic Colardo of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC (Pa.). “Just having the ability to share ideas with a colleague and gain new insights will help you better serve your community.”