Chamber History

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The Glastonbury Chamber of Commerce has proudly represented and served the people of Glastonbury for more than a century. As Chambers across the state develop a purpose and mission unique to the communities they serve, the priorities and focus of the Glastonbury Chamber evolve to fit the growing needs of the local business community.

The Glastonbury Chamber is a membership-based organization representing a growing number of businesses that conduct business in or with the Glastonbury community. Our members are entrepreneurs, managers, business owners, employees and independent contractors who are dynamic leaders in their chosen fields. Many of them have personally taken an active role in shaping the innovative programs and services the Chamber now offers.

The Glastonbury Chamber exists to serve and promote member businesses, strengthen the local business economy, and assist the Town of Glastonbury in ensuring the area remains a desirable community in which to work and reside. Here are some interesting things you might want to know about the Glastonbury Chamber of Commerce. The more you know about what we do, the better equipped we are to serve you:

·    The Glastonbury Chamber is a non-profit organization, independent of the Town of Glastonbury, which serves approximately 600 member businesses.

·    The Glastonbury Chamber’s office is open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and employs a full-time staff of three and two part time staff members.

·    Members of the Chamber range from small businesses to large corporations. They include high tech firms, professional and consulting firms, boutiques, restaurants, medical facilities, factories and home-based businesses, among others.

·    Glastonbury Chamber members include businesses from Glastonbury, and more than 30 other towns throughout Connecticut.

·    The Glastonbury Chamber has a new Senior membership category for retired individuals that are at least 65 years old. These members become members at a reduced membership fee; they may participate in Chamber activities, committees and attend events. ConnectiCare, through the Chamber Insurance Trust, is providing a Medicare supplement insurance program crafted specifically for these members.

·    The Glastonbury Chamber offers professional development seminars and free professional consultations in business development and technology. The Chamber also hosts groups and events to promote networking, and sponsors an annual business exposition to showcase the wide array of products and services offered by local businesses.

·    The Glastonbury Chamber produces community events such as the Apple Harvest Festival and the Riverfront Music Festival, but focuses mainly on developing programs and services that are a resource to business professionals.

·    The Glastonbury Chamber is actively involved with elected officials from the Town of Glastonbury and the State of Connecticut as an advocate for legislation and policies supportive of local business.

·    The Glastonbury Chamber is a member of the East of the River Chambers of Commerce Association (ERCCA) which links more than 3,500 chamber members from Glastonbury, East Hartford, Manchester, North Central Connecticut, South Windsor, and Tolland County. The Glastonbury Chamber has a seat on the Alliance’s Economic Development Council which establishes the tactics and actions necessary to achieve the region’s economic goals.

·          The Glastonbury Chamber can refer the public to a wide assortment of products and services offered by member businesses. People can also access a directory of members by logging on to www.glastonburychamber.com.

The Chamber staff always makes a concerted effort to answer questions and requests from community members. Whenever possible we will refer you to an appropriate resource.

The Glastonbury Chamber of Commerce is a business resource center providing members with the tools they need to do better business. The variety of programs and services the Chamber offers give business people access to the individuals and information needed to strengthen their enterprises and develop their professional skills. New and current members, as well those considering joining the Chamber, are encouraged to explore ways in which membership can help them gain the critical advantage needed to meet their goals.