Since 2007, ACCE has annually recognized chambers of commerce in various size categories for their work leading businesses and communities with the Chamber of the Year award. The award recognizes excellence in operations, member services and community leadership.
Chamber of the Year is sponsored by
Application process
The Chamber of the Year award involves a multi-stage process, which includes Dynamic Chamber Benchmarking, application and interview. Winners of the Chamber of the Year award must wait three years before submitting another application.
During the first two stages, chambers compete against the numbers. As finalists, they compete against other chambers within their category. Staff and volunteer committee discretion will determine the size category of each entry, using a 4-factor equation from the Dynamic Chamber Benchmarking platform.
Chambers interested in applying for Chamber of the Year must complete the survey questions in ACCE's Dynamic Chamber Benchmarking by April 5, 2021. Chambers that meet minimum requirements will be notified and invited to proceed with the Chamber of the Year application process. Dynamic Chamber Benchmarking is available all year long but only chambers that complete the Chamber Profile and Operations sections (with Fiscal Year 2020 data) by April 5th will be considered for eligibility. You can find the platform and more information here.
Synopsis Review
You have the option of submitting your synopsis topic for review prior to your application submission. A committee of your peers will review the submission, giving it one of the following evaluations: red (not competitive), a yellow (standard and should consider re-evaluation) and green (great topic). Submit your synopsis topic review form by April 23, 2021.
Questions? Contact Crystal Moore.
Chamber of the Year resources
Publicity and brand awareness
Chamber of the Year winners and finalists will experience heightened attention via media advisories and press conferences. Finalists and winners are authorized to use the appropriate version of the Chamber of the Year logo in promoting their chambers and communities.