Legacy of Excellence

We wouldn't be where we are today, without extraordinary leadership throughout the years. Nor would we be the thriving community that we are without our successful businesses.

From our humble beginnings, our Chamber has been a catalyst - driven by a mission to promote business growth and success.   Our leadership has led with purpose - from our first chair of the board, Dr. Fred Albee, when the Chamber was started in 1925 with the vision of forming a city.

Fast forward, through decades of driving business growth and economic development:   the Chamber- sold real estate in South Venice to bring new people to the area, that would then start new businesses. The Chamber initiated the Shark's Tooth Festival to drive tourism to Florida during the slow summer months. Then with the vision of beautifying the areas along the front of businesses, to give that BEST first impression of our community, the Chamber started Venice Area Beautification, Inc., affectionately known as VABI.  Oh my! How it has it blossomed. (pun intended) It is our own members that built our current Chamber building with zero debt.  These are just a few examples of why 100 years in, the Chamber stands strong today.

 

Our Commitment and Drive Continues

This year, like many before it, has been marked by remarkable achievements. Supporting our local businesses through challenging times, fostering new partnerships, and championing initiatives that not only help keep our businesses going but to also drive our local economy.

The commitment to our mission has never wavered, it is that unwavering drive that keeps us at the forefront of business advocacy and support, as your business advocate for initiatives and policies that are in the best interest for all our businesses.

There was a recent study sponsored by ACCE (Association Chamber of Commerce) it’s called the Harris Poll, taken in the United States on the Impact and Value of Chambers of Commerce.  The poll shows positive perceptions about the impact a Chamber has on its community and the value of the Chamber membership to our businesses. To share a few:

90% feel the Chamber has an impact on growing the local economy, 74% believe Chambers create jobs and promote local community development, 72% believe Chambers play a key role in addressing community challenges.

81% of these adults trust their local Chamber of Commerce, therefore 64% would likely buy goods and services from a local business if they are a member of the Chamber and 63% would recommend that business to someone else.    62% of business owners believe the chamber supports the growth and prosperity of their business.

All this said we are walking the talk of our Mission.

There is Excitement for the Future

As we look ahead to our centennial year, we are filled with excitement and anticipation. The future holds endless possibilities, and we are ready to embrace them with the same passion and determination that has defined our past.

We will continue to innovate, support, and lead, ensuring that our Chamber remains a vital force in promoting business growth and success

Thank you for your dedication, leadership, support, and belief in the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce. We wouldn't be who we are today without our past, present, and what I'm sure will be an exciting future for the next hundred years.