Business

The Values of a Chamber of Commerce Membership

Most seasoned business owners can tell you the benefits of being a member of a local Chamber of Commerce, but the number one reason is that it allows a business owner to connect with other local businesses in their community. Chambers of Commerce are committed to protecting and promoting their business community. Some of the reasons to join a Chamber of Commerce include: Networking and collaborating can be essential to business growth and success Two words: business directory – being featured in a business directory through a Chamber of Commerce allows new customers to find you when they are looking [...]

Why Should A Business Become SWaM Certified?

Small, woman-owned and minority-owned (SWaM) businesses are encouraged to be certified through the Virginia Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD). SWaM certification can be a valuable tool for home-based businesses as it can be a resource for new business opportunities. Sometimes, government agencies including universities are required to present opportunities to SWaM certified businesses during their procurement process and being certified can help a business receive a contract. To qualify as woman-owned or minority-owned, a business must be at least 51 percent owned by a woman or minority who are United States citizens or legal residents and whose [...]