Jul 20, 2008
8:19 AM

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About the Chamber

What is a Chamber of Commerce?

A Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization that unites businesses and professional people in an effort to expand the economy of an area. It must be understood that a Chamber of Commerce is PEOPLE. There is a place in the Chamber for members to get involved and accomplish collectively what no one of them could do alone, thereby creating a pool of resources from which to draw ideas, energies and finance. Today, Chambers of Commerce have become community organizations which recognize all the factors that affect their community and adjust their programs accordingly.


What a Chamber is NOT...

A Chamber of Commerce is not a department of the city, county or state governments; a social, service or charitable institution; a private advertising, publicity or public relations agency.


History of the Dallas Regional Chamber

The Dallas Regional Chamber is a dynamic alliance serving the business interests of the region. The root of our rich history dates back to the Board of Trade, established in 1874. The initial formation of the Chamber as it now exists occurred in 1909, when three other groups — the Commercial Club, the 150,000 Club and the Freight Bureau — merged with the Board of Trade to form the original Dallas Chamber of Commerce. Since then, the Chamber has evolved into one of the largest voluntary membership driven organizations of businesses in the United States.


What the Dallas Regional Chamber has become

It is the largest business leadership organization in the region. The Chamber effectively focuses upon economic prosperity and quality of life issues important to the entire area. We are the leading business development and economic development organization for the region. The role of the chamber has become increasingly important as we try to improve the local economy. The Chamber consists of 3,000 businesses located in 88 different cities in the region.


Chamber Priorities

Regional Economic Development

  • Promote the prosperity of the region through marketing, business expansion and relocation.

Public Policy

  • Develop and advocate public policy positions on key issues that affect the business community.

Member Service

  • Enhance business growth and development of our business members by providing targeted quality services and programs.

Program of Work (PDF)


Get Involved

The Dallas Regional Chamber has at its disposal a resource that only a select few can access--the talent packed into each member company. At the Chamber, key volunteers step forward to make new initiatives a reality. Member business expertise is incorporated into the Chamber through our various committees and councils. Here at the Chamber, committees are both our greatest resource and the lifeblood of our organization. There are a wide variety of ways you can get involved. Here are just some of the ways you can get the most out of your membership.

Engagement Opportunities (PDF)

Sponsorship Opportunities (PDF)