Welcome to the Athens-Limestone Chamber of Commerce!
We are excited to welcome you to our community of businesses and leaders who are dedicated to making Athens a great place to live, work, and thrive. Your decision to join the Chamber is more than just a membership—it’s a commitment to the growth and prosperity of our community.
We believe that our strength lies in the people, the businesses, and the organizations that call Athens home, and we are thrilled to have you as part of our family.
At the Chamber, we are all about connection, collaboration, and support. We want to see your business flourish, and we’re here to provide the tools, resources, and opportunities that will help you succeed. Whether it’s through our networking events, educational programs, or community initiatives, there are countless ways for you to get involved and make a difference.
As someone who has seen firsthand the impact that a strong business community can have on a city, I know that the work we do together is vital to our shared success. Your presence here means that you are ready to contribute to that success, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have you with us.
This Member Guidelines Book is your guide to everything the Chamber has to offer. Inside, you’ll find information on how to maximize your membership, connect with other members, and take full advantage of the benefits available to you. We encourage you to dive in, get involved, and let us know how we can support you in your journey.
CHAMBER PRESIDENT/CEO
WHO WE ARE
The Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to being the voice of the business community. Our mission is to serve our businesses, promote our growth, and empower our community. We strive to advance economic development and create a thriving environment for our community. Through collaboration and strategic initiatives, our vision is to be the bedrock for business development in the fastestgrowing county in Alabama.
SERVE OUR BUSINESSES
We are committed to serving our local businesses by providing essential resources and support. Our focus is on addressing the needs of our members, offering assistance and local expertise to ensure their success and resilience in a competitive marketplace.
PROMOTE OUR GROWTH
Our role is to promote the growth and visibility of local businesses. Through strategic marketing opportunities, networking events, and community engagement, we aim to enhance the presence of our members and drive positive economic development.
EMPOWER OUR COMMUNITY
We empower our community by creating opportunities for connection and innovation. By offering educational programs, leadership development, and advocacy, we equip business owners with the tools they need to thrive and contribute to the overall vitality of Athens-Limestone County. Together, these principles guide our efforts to foster a dynamic, prosperous business environment for all.
WHAT WE DO
At the Athens-Limestone Chamber, we are committed to cultivating a thriving business community for small businesses and industry alike. Continuously nurturing a diverse, vibrant ecosystem for local entrepreneurs is at the heart of our mission. We achieve this through our Pillars (S.T.O.N.E.): Small Business Support, Tourism & Livability, Outreach (Government & Advocacy), Networking & Leadership, and Education & Workforce.
VISIBILITY
To help businesses gain exposure and attract new customers, we offer various promotional opportunities. This includes high-profile event sponsorships, featured listings, social media spotlights, and other marketing initiatives designed to enhance reach within the community. (see page 12)
GROWTH
We partner with local experts to provide a range of educational opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and personal coaching. These programs are aimed at helping business owners refine their strategies, improve their skills, and stay ahead of industry trends. (see page 7)
NETWORK
Our Chamber provides numerous platforms for businesses to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and potential clients. From networking events and mixers to industry-specific meetups, we facilitate meaningful connections that can lead to valuable partnerships and collaborations. (see page 8)
WHAT WE DO
CHAMBER COMMITTEES
Many members actively participate in committees. Through committees, Chamber members help set the course of their organization and ensure that the Chamber’s actions are an accurate expression of the needs and concerns of the business community.
LEADERSHIP & NETWORKING
Through our leadership programs and networking events, the Chamber helps business owners and professionals develop relationships to help grow their business, enhance their visibility, raise public awareness, and strengthen their business development skills and goals.
WORKFORCE EDUCATION
The Chamber, alongside our community partners, is dedicated to developing a highly qualified and skilled workforce for Limestone County, which begins with education. The Chamber aims to encourage workforce preparedness at every level of instruction through the creation and encouragement of strategic education partnerships.
CIVIC & GOVERNMENTAL
The Chamber’s Civic and Governmental Council strives to create a positive business climate by focusing on local issues impacting our business community. We do not support a specific party, but support policies and legislation that encourage economic growth and promote a prosperous environment.
SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
The Chamber leads in establishing programs that foster growth for both existing and new businesses. We encourage business expansion and new retail, commercial, industrial, and technology ventures, to maintain a balanced business climate.
CHAMBER PROGRAMS
The Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce offers programs that foster leadership and community engagement, focusing on team-building, knowledge sharing, and developing future leaders across various sectors.
AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
Ambassadors are enthusiastic professionals with strong leadership skills who serve as liaisons between Chamber leadership, members, and the community. They represent member organizations and commit to a 12-month term.
LIMESTONE LEAD
The Limestone LEAD program encourages leadership in 10th and 11th graders from Athens City, Limestone County, and nearby private schools. Students meet monthly from August to May to explore education and career topics that increase their awareness of the local workforce.
LEADERSHIP ATHENS
LIMESTONE
This program encourages new and existing community leaders through a collaborative forum on local issues and services. Participants gain lifelong learning, policy influence, expanded networks, interactions with local government, team building, and a servant leadership community project.
PARTNERS IN EDUCATION
The Partners in Education program exists to provide our area businesses an opportunity to support our local schools through resource offerings and service
DEIBA
The Diversity Equity & Inclusion Business Alliance (DEIBA)- under the Athens-Limestone Chamber- is a network of minority businesses created to enhance business knowledge, expand market share, and create opportunities for minority business success and growth through coaching.
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF ATHENS-LIMESTONE COUNTY
Young Professionals of AthensLimestone County enrich the community by serving others, building connections, and empowering leaders. If seeking friendships, growth, or involvement, this group is the gateway to Athens’ future.
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
The Chamber’s Women in Business (WIB) program hosts events designed by women for women, promoting confidence, strength, and learning. WIB offers opportunities to connect with female business owners, leaders, and professionals, while engaging in hands-on activities with local businesses.
(see EMPOWERHER WOMEN’S SUMMIT, page 9)
CHAMBER EVENTS
The Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce hosts several community events throughout the year to bring people together in the spirit of celebrating our business community, spreading seasonal cheer, and enjoying good family fun. Explore a sampling of our events below.
BREAKFAST & BIZ
Breakfast & Biz is a quarterly, speed-dating-style networking event where Chamber members make professional connections. Participants have 60 seconds at each table to pitch themselves, their business, or an event. After everyone speaks, notes are taken, business cards are exchanged, and the room rotates to the next table to repeat the process until everyone has connected.
BUSINESS & BASEBALL
Business & Baseball is a relaxed networking event that combines professional connections with a fun night at Toyota Field. Attendees enjoy a Trash Panda game while mingling with other local business representatives, making it a great way to build relationships in a casual, enjoyable setting.
CHAMBER COFFEE
Chamber Coffee is an hour-long networking event held on the third Tuesday of every month at 9AM. Each social is hosted by a different Chamber member at their business’ location. The goal is not to form superficial connections, but lasting relationships by attending each month. At every Chamber Coffee, we welcome new Chamber members, give Chamber announcements, and create an open forum for members to give updates about their businesses or events.
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
We host Christmas events including the Merry Market, a festive holiday market with local vendors and crafts; Christmas Open House, a community gathering with holiday cheer and activities; and the Christmas Parade, featuring floats, music, and seasonal decorations.
*NEW* CONNECT ATHENS
Connect Athens is where business, community, and fun come together. The Chamber’s former Home & Garden Show has grown into a community celebration featuring a diverse business expo, outdoor activities, and lively Kids Zone with a petting zoo, Touch-a-Truck, inflatables and more.
*NEW*
EMPOWERHER WOMEN’S SUMMIT
Women professionals of all backgrounds in Athens-Limestone County are invited to connect, grow, and uplift one another. EmpowerHER is a first-of-its kind event in Athens, featuring notable speakers, an interactive panel, and roundtable discussions for women to share stories and ideas.
FIDDLERS CONVENTION
The Old Time Fiddlers Convention, held annually on the campus of Athens State University, attracts over 20,000 attendees. Musicians from across the county compete to become the Fiddle Champion.
SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT
This event adds a competitive spirit to out-of-office networking with fellow Chamber members and business associates at Old South Clays in Athens, AL.
VOICES OF LIMESTONE COUNTY FORUM SERIES
This series consists of four events: State of Healthcare, State of Tourism, State of Higher Education, and the Legislative Update. Each forum features an expert panel of local industry leaders and/ or elected officials who share insights on recent progress, current challenges, and what lies ahead in their respective fields.
MONTGOMERY DRIVE-IN
The Chamber’s Montgomery public policy trip includes meetings with Alabama legislators, discussions of business and county issues, and tours of key historical landmarks.
GET INVOLVED
Join the Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce and become an integral part of our vibrant business community. By getting involved, member organizations have the opportunity to connect with one another, further personal networks, and grow their business.
HOST AN EVENT
Showcase your business and connect with the community by hosting an event with the Chamber. Whether you’re looking to promote your brand, launch a new product, or simply bring people together, hosting an event offers a unique opportunity to engage with local professionals and leaders.
PARTICIPATE IN A LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
By joining one of our leadership programs, you will not only enhance your own personal and professional growth but also contribute to the success of the AthensLimestone County community.
SERVE ON A COMMITTEE
Forward your knowledge and expertise with other members. Being on one of our committees gives you an opportunity to build relationships while helping make decisions on important local events and programs.
CONNECT
Networking and connecting is a huge part of growing your business and something we value most. The Chamber hosts special events, after hours, networking opportunities, and much more.
GET INVOLVED
MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP
Unlock the full potential of your membership with the Athens-Limestone Chamber by taking advantage of the diverse range of resources, events, and promotional opportunities included at no additional cost. Here’s how you can make the most of your membership:
PERSONALIZED DIRECTORY PAGE
Every member receives their own directory page in our website directory, a source used widely across the community. Customize your page to include company address, phone number, social media links, and website, ensuring potential clients have the information needed to contact your business.
PROMOTE WITH WINDOW AND WEBSITE STICKERS
Show your Chamber affiliation physically with our window sticker and online with our website sticker to boost your credibility and showcase your involvement in the community.
RIBBON CUTTINGS AND MORE
The Chamber provides several opportunities for showcasing member achievements. We offer free ribbon cuttings upon joining the Chamber, as well as anniversary celebrations, open houses, groundbreaking ceremonies, and more. We invite elected officials, ambassadors, and the public to ensure your event is a success.
SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
When available, we promote small business grant programs, coaching, and classes
CONTINUING EDUCATION
The Chamber has partnerships with Athens State University and Calhoun Community College to offer tuition discounts and waivers to member businesses for continued education.
EXCLUSIVE MEMBER DEALS
Members enjoy exclusive discounts on all Chamber events, programs, and initiatives throughout the year.
MIND YOUR BUSINESS PODCAST
Tell your story and go behindthe-scenes of your business on our podcast, hosted by Chamber President Pammie Jimmar.
NONPROFIT SHOWCASE
Each year in February, the Chamber hosts a Nonprofit Showcase where member nonprofits can set up tables and share their story and mission with the local business community.
YOUR MEMBERSHIP
MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES
Enhance your business visibility and connect with our community through a variety of targeted marketing opportunities. We offer several platforms to promote your business and engage with Chamber members, residents, and visitors. Explore how you can make the most of our marketing options below:
ELEVATE: TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN
Elevate is a volunteer-led initiative that connects businesses with personalized marketing opportunities to boost visibility and drive growth. Share your story during our community’s most popular events, programs, industry gatherings, and on social media starting at just $120.
EXPAND YOUR REACH WITH OUR NEWSLETTER
Our biweekly Thursday Throwdown newsletter is dedicated to all-things Chamber members with free and paid advertising options to best meet your needs.
1. Email us to share job listings, news, and ongoing events that will be featured in our flyers section as a free perk of your membership.
2. Reserve a paid “Business Spotlight” feature to headline the newsletter for a month. This blog-style interview will also live on our website and social media. Our emails and newsletters reach over 1000 contacts of both members and the public, providing maximum exposure for your announcements.
Total Resource Campaign
NEW MEMBER INVESTMENT
SCHEDULE 1
RETAIL, GENERAL SERVICES, INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING, PROCESSING, WHOLESALERS, DISTRIBUTORS, UTILITIES, ACCOMMODATIONS, and AGRICULTURAL: The Schedule 1 fair share investment schedule is based on number of employees (including owners) as follows:
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES:
100 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES:
$800 + $1.75/employee over 100
SCHEDULE 2
PROFESSIONAL: Fair share investment is $263 for the firm and one professional. $129 for each additional professional associate (per attorney, doctor, dentist, CPA, etc.) to be listed as a member.
SCHEDULE 3
COMMERCIAL BANKS & CREDIT UNIONS offering the same services as commercial banks: Fair share is a $800 base plus an additional $20.00 per million dollars in deposit.
SCHEDULE 4
INDEPENDENT SALES AGENT representing a member firm ( Real estate, insurance, etc.) Fair Share $210.00.
CIVIC GROUPS, NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, and CHURCHES: Fair Share is $185.00.
SCHEDULE 6
INDIVIDUALS: Individual memberships may be held by those who display interest in the purpose of the Chamber and who are not otherwise designated as an instututional repesentatives of a member firm,association, corporation, partnership of estates and who are not managers or owners: Fair Share is $146.00. Investments for retired individuals and junior members under 21 are $94.00.
NOTES:
1. Two part-time employees constitute one full-time employee in computing the annual membership investment.
2. Your Business investment in the Chamber is 100% tax deductible as a business expense.
SCHEDULE 5 VISIT https://bit.ly/45aJ0P2 OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN TODAY!
OUR STAFF
Our staff is responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the Chamber, organizing and executing events, and providing information for our members and community. We aim to maintain a standard of excellence, acting as accessible resources for all things Chamber and for what’s going Athens and Limestone County.
PAMMIE JIMMAR
pammie@alcchamber.org
E: debra@alcchamber.org
E: ana@alcchamber.org
nikki@alcchamber.org
We’re here to support your growth and success. Stay connected and take advantage of everything your Chamber membership has to offer! Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with the latest events, news, and member opportunities:
