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S T. G E O R G E A R E A
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE S T.
G E O R G E
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W A S H I N G T O N
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I V I N S
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S A N TA
C L A R A
MEMBER GUIDE
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE out a name for themselves and support their families. I commend you for the desire to start and grow a business in our area. With a vibrant and growing economy, this
ABOUT THE CHAMBER
is an outstanding place to start or continue your business. Between your work and the Chamber at your back, it will be difficult to not succeed in this robust and thriving area. Whether you are a native of the St. George
Sincerely,
area or have found yourself lucky enough
As a hub for businesses, the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting our members, elevating the local economy, and championing community prosperity.
to now call this beautiful place home, we can all agree that there is a majesty to the
SUPPORTING OUR MEMBERS
beauty of this area. Like its surroundings,
Don Willie President & CEO St. George Area Chamber of Commerce
the people of Southern Utah are equally as impressive as they strive and work to carve
The SGACC is committed to: Delivering meaningful business resources to our members. Ensuring our members are at the “top of their game.” Offering both in-person and digital networking to help connect businesses with each other. Representing our member businesses to government leaders.
SGACC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rebecca Box (Chair) Brad Buhanan
Mitch Cloward
Security Service America First Intermountain St. George Federal Credit Union Federal Credit Union Regional Hospital
Kevin Kerlin Intergalactic
Nicholle Felshaw Washington County Commission
ELEVATING THE LOCAL ECONOMY
Kyle Case
Huntsman World Senior Games
Sara Otto
The SGACC represents the interests of over 1000 businesses and nonprofits who are directly impacted by the strength of the local economy. We work collaboratively with our local, state and federal economic partners to grow the local economy, bring high-paying jobs and increase prosperity to our community.
Greater Zion
CHAMPIONING COMMUNITY PROSPERITY
Kurt Ivie
Washington City
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Shonie Christensen Allstate Insurance
Brenda Cody TDS
Kelli Charlton
Stapley Pharmacy
Chris Bengtzen Safari Hospitality
Tasha Toy
Annie Howell
Dixie State Univeristy Watts Construction
The SGACC believes that a strong economic engine is crucial to a prosperous community. This engine is driven by both small business and large corporations. Together we identify issues that are barriers to economic opportunity and then develop strategies to move our community forward.
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MEMBER BENEFITS
BUSINESS EDUCATION & TRAINING CONT. Participation in member-only business surveys to provide feedback on business issues. Participation in Chamber programs and committees – Young Professionals, Women in Business, Start STG, Chamber Serves, Chamber Votes, Community Action, Chamber History, Global Coalition, and Inclusion Coalition Opportunity to post jobs in the SGACC jobs portal
BRAND EXPOSURE Complimentary listing on the Chamber’s business directory (100,000 hits annually) and in the official St. George Area Guide (15,000 copies distributed)
ADVOCACY
Opportunity to pitch your business at our “Meet the New Members” Chamber luncheon
Representation on the Utah Chamber Policy Coalition (Unified representation for business-friendly legislation in Utah)
Features and highlights on social media for business milestones/significant events/accolades Welcome post on social media and newsletter featuring your logo (8,000+ follower reach)
Representation of the business community on local, regional, state, and national legislation
Member-only events with elected officials which include candidate debates, open houses, forums, etc Regular national updates with the US Chamber of Commerce
MARKETING & ADVERTISING Official SGACC framed membership certificate and window decal Limited use of the SGACC logo on digital and print material (approval required) Discounted advertising rates in the St. George Area Guide (15,000 copies distributed) Exclusive discounts in the Southern Utah Business magazine Complimentary ribbon cutting, grand opening, program launch, or similar event
Participation in Membership 101 - an orientation to explore Chamber benefits Access to ChamberMaster to connect with 1000+ members and control your membership Access to the private SGACC Facebook Group to network, share best practices, and ask for advice Networking opportunities throughout the year with member pricing for Chamber luncheons, business after hours networking, and other events
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) boost through your listing on the SGACC Website
Chamber referrals to your business/organization
Add SGACC as co-host on your Facebook to increase exposure for your business events
MEMBER PERKS
Advertise 2x a month in the Chamber’s weekly B2B newsletter (5000+ subscriber reach) Discounted sponsorship opportunities (print and online) Opportunity to post corporate events to the community calendar New members and renewing members are listed in the Southern Utah Business Magazine and members get a discounted advertising rate
BUSINESS EDUCATION & TRAINING Invitations to exclusive workshops, training sessions, and programs designed to keep you informed about key topics, upcoming events, and unique opportunities
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NETWORKING
Two complimentary tickets at the monthly new member luncheon Member-only pricing for the weekly chamber lunches and other chamber events – Gala, State of the Chamber Addresses, award events, etc.
EVENTS WEEKLY NETWORKING LUNCHEONS The best networking you can do happens every Wednesday from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM. Weekly chamber lunches bring the business community together to connect and to learn from experts in the business world, leaders in the community and more. RIBBON-CUTTING/GROUNDBREAKING/ GRAND OPENING/ANNIVERSARY As an added benefit to our members, the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce offers a complimentary initial event for a member at their place of business. We collaborate with our members to create a memorable experience and a warm welcome to the business community. If you would like more information, please contact a Chamber representative. (PICS)
The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce hosts 100+ events annually with the purpose of creating meaningful networking and educational opportunities for business and community leaders. Each event we offer is carefully curated to make the most of your time. We encourage members to attend these luncheons as often as your schedule will permit. You can register for all chamber events online at stgeorgechamber.com/events
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Sometimes the workday is just brutal and something social and fun is needed to help relax. Look no further than the Chamber’s Business After Hours events. Each month the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce works with a local business to provide an informal networking event for members to enjoy and get to know each other in a more relaxed environment. FAMILY NIGHTS The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce understands that our members are more than just them, they often times have an entire family supporting them. We make it a point to celebrate and invite all our members to our monthly family nights.
Complementary Notary and Certificate of Origin Services Discounted rates on board room and instruction room rentals at chamber building.
Join the C hamber online a t s tge orge ch ambe r.com
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ANNUAL EVENTS STATE OF THE CHAMBER Leaders of the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce reflect on the progress made in the previous year and present the vision for the upcoming year. New initiatives, committees, and other advantageous programs to the business community are announced during this event.
ST. GEORGE AREA CHAMBER FOUNDATION GALA The area’s most prestigious black-tie event is a great opportunity to come together, dress up, and raise money for a great cause! The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes leaders in the St. George Area who are known for their exemplary leadership, innovation in business, and service to community through the presentation of the prestigious Areté award. Guests will be entertained by world-class talent, an elegant dinner, and the company of fellow business and community leaders.
THE ELEMENT AWARDS
30 IN THEIR THIRTIES CEOs. Founders. Directors. Managers. Entrepreneurs. Innovators. Creatives. Movers and Shakers. The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes 30 dynamic young leaders in their thirties who are taking Southern Utah to a new level.
The Element Awards honors outstanding women of achievement in Washington County. The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes that women in our area are changing the world where they stand. They are the Movers, Shakers, Humanitarians, Entrepreneurs and Influencers. These women are in their element, doing what they do best, and breaking down barriers. Attendees will enjoy regionally inspired dinner and a motivational awards ceremony to honor local women of achievement.
CHAMBER CLASSIC The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic is among St. George's most established and popular golf tournaments. The Chamber Classic is the perfect opportunity to connect with other business leaders, impress clients and enjoy 18 holes of golf in the beautiful St. George area weather.
FRIENDS AND FAMILY LUAU The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce knows that to work hard you need to play hard as well. The Friends & Family Luau is a great opportunity to get to know fellow members, friends and family over a delicious meal and equally great entertainment.
SALUTE TO AMERICA This annual patriotic luncheon celebrates what makes our country and business community so successful. Enjoy this freedom-filled event that commemorates Independence Day and celebrated the power of the American economic engine.
RISE ST. GEORGE BUSINESS SUMMIT The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce understands that to be the best you must learn from the best. We invite you to come learn cutting-edge business solutions to help you run your business at the top of your game from some of the top professionals in their industries. This oneday event will be very advantageous to those looking to improve their businesses and get ahead of the game. 2021 SPONSOR PACKAGES
HOLIDAY NETWORKING SOCIAL Celebrate the holiday season in true chamber fashion! Enjoy delicious holidayinspired bites, great company, and entertainment at our St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Holiday Social.
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S T. G E O R G E I S ON THE MOVE!
PUBLIC POLICY
Best small city to start a business
Best Performing Cities 2021
Southern Utah’s largest city
(Washington City #4) wallethub.com
Milkin Institute
largest in Utah
#1
2020 job growth
5.1%
Our team attends weekly city council meetings, is active at the state legislature, and has good working relationships with our federal delegation. We work to
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ensure that the regulatory and tax environment in our area is businessfriendly, allowing our members to grow and thrive. We testify in state legislative committees, communicate regularly with elected officials, enlist our members in calls to action, publish letters of support for and in opposition to legislation and local ordinances, we host and facilitate regular Chamber Policy Committee meetings, we conduct an annual legislative boot camp, and we influence the debates and conversations around important public policy topics.
The 45 Best Emerging Places to Live Emerging Metropolitan Areas
29th
7th
March 2021 unemployment:
2010-2019 median home value increase:
Utah DWS
58th highest our of 383 MSAs
3.4%
Utah DWS As a strong voice for business in southern Utah, the St. George Area Chamber is well equipped to advocate on your behalf at the city, county, state, and federal levels. In a fast-paced world where growing and succeeding in your business is top priority, your Chamber membership provides you some peace of mind, knowing that the member services and public policy team at the Chamber has your back.
#4
2010-2020 population change:
+29.68%
+48.9% Median age
37.2
The St. George area is experiencing unprecedented growth and our Chamber members are at the forefront of this growth. In order to maintain the quality of life that attracts so many people to our area, we must be smart with the way we grow. The Chamber closely monitors data and growth trends in Washington County and we are active participants in crucial conversations taking place around growth and development.
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TESTIMONIALS
A F Q’S WHAT IS A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE?
“Joining the St.George Area Chamber of Commerce has been one of the smartest things that we did for our non profit organization. The networking brought us so much public awareness, volunteers, corporate sponsorships and new friends. Join the Chamber! You will be glad you did.” Donna MacBean, Neighborhood Connection
"All types of organizations in St George can benefit from joining the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce. I know Zonos has." Clint Reid, Zonos
“There are benefits for businesses of all sizes at the chamber. From CEO to Sales Rep, the Chamber helps to facilitate growth in your business.” Brad Buhanan, America First Credit Union
“In my line of work, it is highly important to connect with the business community and there is no better way to do that than by joining the Chamber! With a focus on growth, education, local support and service, the Chamber is the perfect organization to both grow your business and impact the community in a positive way.” Josh Vidal, St. George Magazine
“Through the St George Chamber of Commerce, I have created many long-term business relationships. What the Chamber provides is unmeasurable in its breadth. It has helped me and my business tremendously.” Chris Conners, Farmstead Bakery
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The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce has played a pivotal role in helping my business through the pandemic. By asserting their resources to generate grant options, to planning networking lunches to help streamline integral business relationships, to hosting motivational events that encourage a growth mindset. The Chamber team has gone the extra mile and are an asset. Every business in St. George needs to utilize the Chamber! Danielle Edgren, Cheesecake Culture
As a company that has recently changed its name and brand, membership in and working with the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce has been one of the most effective and successful ways in getting the word out on our new brand to other businesses. Mark Peterson, Altabank
Chambers are integral to business building, especially small businesses. They create the opportunity to connect by hosting events and we, the members, benefit. The St. George Area Chamber has many benefits on top of 100+ annual events we can attend… I still have yet to take advantage of all the member benefits. I’m not going to sugar coat and say that as soon as one joins that they’ll have influx on business. Nooooo.... we need to work it. It’s our job to go and network and meet the other members and attendees for the purpose of building relationships which will result in business. Julian Chang, Myonetics Wellness
The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce is an association or network of businesspeople designed to promote and protect the interests of its members and the business community as a whole.
HOW MANY MEMBERS DOES THE CHAMBER HAVE? The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce currently serves over 1,000 members and is constantly growing. WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO GET THE
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO BE A CHAMBER MEMBER? We pride ourselves in recruiting businesses that will abide by our code of conduct and want to make a difference in the community. A business can apply to be a member of the Chamber by simply filling out the application on our website. We have many amazing members and look forward to adding you to that list! WHERE CAN I SEE WHAT EVENTS ARE HAPPENING AT THE CHAMBER?
MOST OUT OF MY MEMBERSHIP? Every business joins the Chamber for a variety of reasons. Networking, marketing, advocacy, and branding are all valid and are productive for businesses. We encourage that everyone be active in Chamber events and committees according to their business’ needs. If you cannot make it to our events, then we highly recommend that you take advantage of your marketing and advertising benefits as events are only a portion of the many benefits the Chamber provides for its members.
Online at www.stgeorgechamber.com WHAT TYPE OF EVENTS DOES THE CHAMBER OFFER TO HELP ME NETWORK AND GROW MY BUSINESS? The Chamber hosts multiple meetings weekly and our members can attend as many or as few of them as their time allows. We hold weekly luncheons, frequent ribbon cuttings, after hours events, golf leagues, service projects, trainings, round table discussions, and regular committee meetings. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with the Chamber.
J oi n the Ch a m be r o n lin e a t stg e o rg e ch a m b e r. co m
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STRATEGIC PARTNERS Governor’s Office of Economic Development – The Utah
World Trade Center Utah – As the statewide voice of
Governor’s Office of Economic Development’s (GOED)
international business, WTC Utah facilitates economic growth
mission is to provide rich business resources for the creation,
through increased exports and international awareness for
growth and recruitment of companies to Utah and to
Utah’s companies.
increase tourism and film production in the state. This is accomplished through the administration of programs that are based around industries or “economic clusters” that
consulting and training for clients at all organizational levels.
demonstrate the best potential for development.
They engage directly with management and staff to address
Zions Bank Business Resource Center - The Zions Bank
an organizational transformation and help companies make
Business Resource Center offers NO-COST business
sustainable performance improvements.
consultations and services to help you launch or grow your business. As a one-stop shop for all your business needs, you can meet with our team to brainstorm your business ideas, write a business plan, fine-tune your marketing strategy,
both the human and technical elements necessary to support
Utah Manufacturers Association – The Utah Manufacturers
Procurement Technical Assistance Centers – PTAC is a
manufacturing businesses thrive.
increase the number of businesses capable of participating in government contracts through one-on-one counseling, educational events, and networking, PTAC experts help companies from all industries and skill levels identify, compete for, and win federal, state, and local government contracts. Small Business Development Centers – The Utah Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) provide trainings, tools, and access to consultants to help business owners succeed in starting, growing and transitioning their businesses through free, confidential consultations and lowcost trainings. Service Corp of Retired Executives – SCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteers with expertise as business mentors. SCORE is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through entrepreneurial education and mentorship. Small Business Administration – The U.S. Small Business Administration helps individuals start, build, and grow businesses. The SBA was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation.
Manufacturers. They work to advance policies that will help
Associated General Contractors of Utah – AGC of Utah is dedicated to improving the construction industry by: Educating the industry to employ the finest skills – Promoting use of the latest technology – Advocating building the best quality projects for owners (public and private). Southern Utah Home Builders Association – The Southern Utah Home Builders Association (SUHBA) is a trade association representing building industry businesses throughout Washington, Kane, and San Juan Counties of Southern Utah. Our mission is to support the home building industry and benefit its members, partners, and communities through education, relationships, advocacy, and service. St. George Area Economic Development Office – St. George Area Economic Development is a collaborative organization led by business and community leaders to strengthen and develop Southern Utah’s economy. Our objective is to be a catalyst for prosperity that is robust, sustainable, and in tune with the spirited cultural environment of Southern Utah. StartSTG – StartSTG is the St. George area’s premier monthly entrepreneurship meetup. Entrepreneurs have the opportunity to pitch their idea or business , share feedback, and network with fellow entrepreneurs.
Marketing & Events Committee – The SGACC Marketing and Events Committee is responsible for creating positive awareness of the chamber of commerce within the St. George Area business community by: -Creating engaging events to educate and connect members to one another and to additional resources for their businesses -Enhance current chamber visibility in the community to generate new membership and event opportunities -Review and provide guidance on all marketing materials (print or online)
manufacturing industry in the state of Utah. UMA provides information, as well as access to key issues affecting Utah
world of government contracting. PTAC was established to
One of the greatest ways the Chamber demonstrates impact in the community is through its Chamber Committees. Getting involved with one of our committees provides networking, service, and life-changing opportunities. Our committees have been known to put on amazing events, raise money, build houses, feed the hungry, advocate with state and local government, create more inclusive environments, and help cultivate future business leaders. Those who join our committees also often have the most fun!
Association is a trade association that represents the
launch an LLC, and much more!
nationwide network that helps guide businesses through the
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iMpact Utah – The iMpactUtah team offers full service
COMMITTEES
Young Professionals – Young Professionals offers access to top community leaders including our local mayors, city councils, county commissioners, state & federal legislators, governor, lieutenant governor & AG. We provide professional and personal development training, community service, and networking where meaningful relationships can be formed. It’s an organization to get excited about and involved in political issues that affect young professionals’ lives. Women’s Initiative – The SGACC Women’s Initiative advances women in business, entrepreneurial and community leadership. The initiative is founded in strong collaborations and partnerships with the Women’s Leadership Institute and Women’s Business Center of Utah. Through these strategic partnerships, the chamber offers both women’s leadership trainings and women’s business training. Chamber Votes – The Chamber Votes Initiative seeks to empower the engagement of business in political elections. We ask all business leaders to personally cast their ballots and also work with their staff to increase voter turnout within the private sector. Chamber Serves – The Chamber Serves initiative seeks to increase the community and humanitarian activity within the private sector. Through this initiative, we invite members to participate in quarterly chamber service projects and encourage service and volunteerism in their own company.
-Identify and secure media opportunities that advance the mission of the chamber and increase its membership. Membership Committee – The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Committee is responsible for growing the membership of the chamber through thoughtful and strategic policies, programing, and benefits. This committee focuses on both new member recruitment and member retention. Community Action Committee – The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Community Action Committee acts as the eyes and ears of the chamber on local issues impacting businesses. A large group of diverse stakeholders, this committee provides insights on how local issues impact or are perceived by residents. The committee recommends solutions to address local issues. SGACC Sunshiners – The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Sunshiners are considered ambassadors of the chamber. They encourage chamber membership and represent the chamber to all businesses in the St. George area. Chamber Sunshiners are responsible for: -Welcoming new businesses to the chamber -Disseminating information about the chamber to members as well as the community at large -Attend meetings, luncheons, ribbon cuttings, ground breakings, open houses, etc., in order to be informed about the activities of the chamber and member businesses, and to help communicate the Chamber’s benefits to the community
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M E MB E RSHI P MEMBERSHIP COST Membership dues are paid on an annual basis and are based on the employee count at your business.*
1-4
$375
5-9
$455
10-19
$640
20-49
$758
50-99
$900
100-249
$1,070
250-499
$1,274
500+
$1520
NON-PROFIT
$200
AFFILIATE
$165
Affiliate Memberships are only available to individuals/ organizations who are part of, or related to, a business or organization who holds an active and full Chamber membership. Affiliates are oftentimes Realtors, Sales Agents, etc.
MEMBER CODE OF CONDUCT As a member of the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, you are part of a prestigious group of thoughtful business leaders. As such, you are held to a higher standard in our community by consumers. As a Chamber member you commit to: Operate your business with the highest level of integrity and ethics Conduct business and professional activities in a reputable manner so as to reflect honorably upon our business community Respect other Chamber members and members of the business community
*Membership rates are reviewed annually and may be adjusted by the Board of Directors
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136 N 100 E, St George, UT 84770
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i n f o @ s t g e o r g e c h a m b e r. c o m
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435.628.1450