WLACC Advantages

This is a question asked when a business joins any Chamber. There are many direct and indirect benefits as a result of your Chamber membership. Such advantages are outlined below for your review and consideration.

It’s fair to say that YOUR Chamber does not “cost,” but rather it “pays.” Every day the Chamber is working to make your business a success in the area.

Resource Publications

Chamber Newsletter: Published on the 1st Tuesday of every month, providing updates on events, issues and positions currently being addressed by the Chamber and the Board of Directors. The newsletters also feature Business Spotlights as well as Chamber Perks, if you'd like to showcase your business, please contact the Chamber staff.

Community Profile: The Chamber distributes community profiles to better sell our communities.

City and County Map: The Chamber publishes and distributes a map of Kandiyohi County and communities in Kandiyohi County.

Community Information: This publication outlines specific features of the Willmar Lakes Area in regard to healthcare, education, growth factors, technology and much more.

Services

Referrals: The Chamber, as well as other Chamber members make frequent referrals for products and services of Chamber member firms.

Community/Chamber Web Sites: Chamber members are listed on the Chamber’s web site at no charge as a benefit of Chamber Membership. The Chamber also manages willmar.com, a community web site for the Willmar Lakes Area. Listings, links and banner ads are available on this site for a small fee.

Directories & Listings

Membership Directory: This is the Chamber’s main source of referrals in which members receive a free listing both alphabetically and by category. This is the only directory of its type in the area and is incorporated as part of our community profile and is distributed frequently.

Organizational Listings: A current list of the area’s principle organizations is maintained and updated yearly.

Community Calendar: A listing of the events in the area is maintained on willmar.com by the Chamber office.

Education

Leadership Perspectives: A community leadership development program has been specifically designed for the area’s emerging leaders. Its purpose is to bring critical issues to the attention of potential community leaders and encourage active participation.

Seminars & Workshops: Seminars and workshops are held throughout the year to enhance leadership, management, sales and customer service skills.

Recognition

Identifications as a Leading Business: Chamber window decals will signify your Chamber involvement to your consumers.

Membership Listings: Not only will your membership be represented in our Membership Directory, your business will be highlighted in our newsletter to inform our membership & community of your business.

Politics/Government/Legislation

Legislative Breakfast Series: Breakfast meetings with our state legislators are held to discuss business, community and environmental issues.

A Strengthened Voice of Business: The Chamber speaks out and ensures that the best interests of the private sector are heard by all levels of government. Each year legislative positions are composed from members' needs.

Vision 2020: The Chamber is a key leader in developing the Willmar Lakes Area’s future. It is the desire of this project to give each community member a vision for the future on how our community can grow and prosper.

Community Marketing Coalition: The Chamber is a partner helping promote the Willmar Lakes Area as a great place to live, work, play, learn and do business.

Advertising/Promotion

Media Bonus!: As a new member, take advantage of media discounts with all of the local media outlets.

Newsletter Advertising: Only Chamber members will be given the opportunity to advertise in our Chamber newsletter.

Chamber ADvantage: Place an insert in the Chamber ADvantage and have it mailed directly to over 900 business people on a quarterly basis.

Mailing Labels: In an effort to help your business with promotions, the Chamber will print our membership on labels for you for a minimal charge.

Other Opportunities: Other opportunities to advertise and promote your business will be available throughout the year including maps, community resource materials, tourism pieces and on the World Wide Web!

Networking

Chamber Connections: Join us each Friday at a Chamber business for a light breakfast and an opportunity to meet other Chamber members and learn more about our member businesses.

Mixers: The Ambassadors host several networking events. Mixers allow the members to network in a social setting and enjoy an evening with fellow chamber members.

Special Events: Events are held throughout the year that are either informational in nature or social, events such as keynote speakers and our Annual Banquet.

Golf Events: Two golfing events are available. The Ambassadors annual golf classic and the Agri-business committees Aggie Open Invitational.