Anchorage Chamber Of Commerce

Anchorage Chamber of Commerce

Anchorage Chamber of Commerce was established on July 28, 1915 during which time Anchorage was only a "tent city'. Anchorage had only become a United States territory three years prior, in the year 1912. The boom in population and growth of construction industry after the construction of the Alaska Railroad in 1915 signaled the need for greater workforce representation and hence the support for the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce to represent the people.

Many of the venerable events and traditions of Anchorage found their start at the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce. In 1973 the first-ever Fur Rendezvous festival was held by the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce, which is winter carnival that celebrates Alaska's rich trapping and mining history, that now attracts tourists and visitors from across the U.S. and all over the globe. In 2004 this festival was held in combination with the Iditarod Sled Dog Race making the event much more internationally appealing.

Today after ninety years from when it was first established, the organization continues to represent the collective voice of the local business community. Its members are investing in future Anchorage business environment and are making real difference in the community. Through the years the areas of attention for the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce have differed, today the work of the Anchorage Chamber of commerce is mainly concentrated on three areas: Public Policy Information, Member and Civic Services, and Economic Development.

Public Policy Information
The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce is a promoter for business; they facilitate promoting and opposing government action on municipal, state and national levels. They also have a strict policy for not endorsing political candidates.

Member and Civic Services
Through programs, committees and events, the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce members are able to have the opportunity to participate in the continued growth of Anchorage, thereby upholding its aim to be a valuable resource to its members and strengthening its members' position in the community.

Economic Development
The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce works to increase Anchorage's economic base through encouragement of commercial, cultural, and sustainable business development. They work to assist local business community in expanding and developing their own business.

The organization works to act as an advocate for its members, not only through political advocacy but also through business referrals and community service. The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce exclusively refers its members, and actively encourages its members to do business with other members. The institution and hold of a network within membership is vital to the success of the Anchorage Chamber of commerce and its members. Joining the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce is about joining a group of community leaders, business professionals, small business owners, and civic volunteers that help each other build a better business community and representation.