Changing Business Models
From royal charters to modern not for profits, chambers have continually reinvented their business models. While membership dues remain important, successful chambers have mastered the art of balanced innovation - finding new revenue streams without compromising their core mission. Chambers are reassessing their value propositions to align and engage stakeholders around meaningful priorities. While membership continues to be a driver of income, chambers are reimagining membership models to better reflect the realities of their regions. Creative non-dues revenue is where many chambers will see significant growth – and sustainability - in the future.
The key tension? Maintaining financial sustainability while staying true to purpose. The most successful chambers walk this tightrope skillfully, avoiding mission creep while embracing strategic opportunities for revenue and growth.
- Does your chamber’s membership model reflect the needs of local businesses?
- What avenues of non-dues revenue are most relevant for your chamber’s market?
By the Numbers
ACCE Insights
- Revenue Models Resource Guide: Released in May 2023, this white paper dives into chamber of commerce dues structures and non-dues revenue streams. The report highlights the latest trends and data, shares relevant case studies and provides practical tools to help you explore revenue opportunities at your chamber. $50 for ACCE members | $100 nonmembers | Free for Horizon and All-Access members. Purchase Now
- 2023 Chamber Operations Survey Report: ACCE’s annual publication highlighting trends and analysis gathered from Dynamic Chamber Benchmarking FY2023 Operations Survey participants. This report explores organizational structure, function, governance, staffing, finance and membership data. Members who completed the FY2023 Operations Survey can log back into the benchmarking platform for access to dynamic reports, metric comparisons and a complimentary copy of this report. ACCE Horizon Investors and All-Access pass members may login at point of purchase to download the publication for free.
- Chamber Foundation Resources: Chamber foundations have become a popular vehicle for chambers of commerce to support their community impact work and diversify their revenue. If you are interested in launching or revitalizing your chamber foundation, here are some resources that can help.
Chamber Examples
- The Kentucky Chamber has leveraged its 501(c)(3) foundation to raise additional revenue to strengthen the workforce, enhance education and promote inclusion across the Commonwealth’s 120 counties.
- The St. Paul Area Chamber generates significant non-dues revenue through its professional services division, WorkStream. It provides consulting, strategy, project management, event support, creative services and office support to community partners in order to advance a vibrant economy.
Smaller Chamber Examples
- SWFL Inc. transitioned to a no-cost membership model due to businesses’ decreased interest in traditional membership options. Southwest Florida businesses receive basic benefits for free and have the option to upgrade to premium membership packages. Since its launch, the chamber has seen significant growth in membership and event participation.
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