Since 1964, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has invited state and local chambers of commerce to participate in its Accreditation Program. The program was designed to stimulate a continuous self-analysis of an organization’s growth and development with an opportunity to reassess its objectives, organization resources, program of work, procedures and achievements. The accreditation program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the only one of its kind to monitor the dynamic chamber of commerce industry.

At the Greater Gainesville Chamber, we pride ourselves on our 5-Star Accreditation, a distinction we’ve received 3 times in a row by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. The Greater Gainesville Chamber works to maintain its 5-Star Accreditation status by focusing on increasing member value, regional collaboration, and addressing community issues.

We apply every 5 years for this award, and we feel that it embodies our efforts to serve Greater Gainesville as well as we can. But what does it really mean?

• We are in the top percentile of Chambers of Commerce nationwide
• We effectively push community progress
• We provide high-quality networking and professional development for those in our member organizations
• We have effective organizational procedures

Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in its operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete.

For more information on Accreditation, visit the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s website.