FAQ
The most commonly asked questions about the Chamber
Today, the Chamber is truly the city’s most influential and diverse business membership organization. The Richmond Chamber of Commerce represents approximately 700 member businesses of all sizes from virtually every industry and profession in our region. Our membership includes national and international corporations, mid-sized firms, entrepreneurial start-ups, and small companies. The chamber of commerce is a network – that’s what we mean by the power of membership.
Many people assume Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade are funded by government or operating by the City. In fact, our chamber is an independent, non-profit, membership based organization run by a volunteer board of directors and small staff team.
We are definitely not a bank. But we do help a lot of new entrepreneurs find their feet! In 2021 alone, our office helped take over 60 businesses from dream to reality.
Whenever we can, we provide referrals to local business resources like financing opportunities, legal services, real estate, and much more.
As the voice of business in Richmond, our staff and volunteers stay up-to-date on political developments. However, we are staunchly non-partisan. That means, no matter who forms government (municipally, provincially, or federally) we’ll have a seat at the table to discuss the concerns of the business community. We will never advocate or fundraise for any individual political affiliation or politician.
In some cities, a chamber membership is included as part of your business license, but here in Richmond, it’s your choice.
We believe you are the best person to know whether the many discounts, community activities, and key policy points make a chamber membership the right choice for you and your employees.
For most chambers, membership fees are tied with how big your business is – if you have more employees, you’ll pay more. Beginning in 2019, we’re doing things a little bit differently. You have the choice to determine how much you want to invest in your membership, and the value you’d like to see from it. Our most affordable membership level is less than $30/month. Email membership AT richmondchamber DOT ca to learn more.
You may be surprised to learn that 80% of Richmond Chamber members have 20 or fewer employees. And almost 100 local non-profits are members.
Members come from all walks of life – from solopreneurs to international companies. We believe that the diversity of our chamber is its strength.