Beyond Networking: How Joining The Calvert County Chamber Of Commerce Can Shape Your Business’s Future

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The Calvert County Chamber of Commerce has worked for years to connect businesses to each other and their communities.

A nonprofit membership organization, the Chamber invites business owners around the county to join them and be a part of the group that works tirelessly to improve the business community in Calvert through advocacy, education and connections.

The Chamber has almost 400 member businesses spanning the county and representing all types of organizations, including retail stores, realtors, hospitality and restaurants, law firms, and much more.

The main goal of the Chamber is to connect business leaders with each other and potential customers, enhancing community presence and growing each business’s network. Member businesses gain visibility through the Chamber’s platforms, social media channels and online directory, and have access to the Chamber’s resources, professional development training and expert consultations. Finally, the Chamber advocates for the business community to make sure all their members’ voices are heard.

Chamber of Commerce membership comes in tiers and includes several benefits:

Networking Opportunities: Monthly meetings, online networking and available committees to join.

Marketing and Visibility: Inclusion in online and print Chamber listings, access to marketing material distribution channels, access to Chamber-hosted events for business milestones, use of community calendars and special member deals.

Resources for Business Growth: Business support updates, access to members-only resource page and expert resources.

Signature Chamber Events: Join major networking events, special interest gatherings and community events hosted by the Chamber or their partners.

Additional Membership Perks: Promotional opportunities, press release distribution and advertising opportunities.

Annual memberships range from $250 to $1,080 per year, depending on the size of the business.

But joining the Chamber is about more than just accessing networking events or advertising opportunities. It’s about building a community and gaining a partner dedicated to helping them succeed.

“When businesses join the Chamber, they gain more than a membership — they gain a partner. We connect businesses with opportunities, advocate for a strong business climate, provide valuable resources, and nurture meaningful relationships that help businesses grow. Together, our members have a stronger voice, greater influence, and access to opportunities they may not have on their own,” Kathryn Maney, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, told The BayNet.

Longtime member Cynthia Thorne-Carter, owner of Smart Ride Inc. in Calvert County, wrote in an email to The BayNet that she got involved with the Chamber before she even launched her business 30 years ago. Thorne-Carter joined a mentorship program through the Chamber before launching Smart Ride.

“I think it is a great organization in which all types of businesses should join,” Thorne-Carter wrote. “Not only is the Chamber great for networking, the activities offer opportunities to learn.” She described how members have supported her over the years, such as donating file cabinets and furniture when she first moved into her office space. She says that being a Chamber member, she knows that other members use and recommend her transportation company whenever possible.

The Chamber has numerous benefits, and Thorne-Carter advises making an effort to network with other business owners and attending events whenever you can.

“You definitely get what you put in,” Thorne-Carter said. “Over the years, I have had periods where I make a real effort to attend events, and I gain contacts and knowledge each time. There were also periods where I was only a dues payer, and while I was still able to reach out to other members as needed and read the newsletters, attending the events is much more advantageous.”

“Our focus extends beyond a single industry, profession or cause. The Chamber works to create an environment where all businesses — and the communities they serve — can prosper,” Maney wrote. “It’s a win for all of us when businesses succeed, jobs are created, and investments grow.”

Visit the Calvert County Chamber of Commerce online to learn more about the organization and their membership opportunities, and visit them on Facebook for the latest updates on events.

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