CHAMBER CONNECTIONS
Kick off your Friday with great connections and community energy! Join the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber for Chamber Connections— fun, fast-paced networking events hosted each week at a different member locations. Share your business updates, hear the latest community news, and enjoy coffee, conversation, and door prizes.
Everyone’s welcome—just bring your business card and $1 to support our Nonprofit of the Month!
Value in Connections
“I drove an hour to attend a Connection within my first month of membership, and it paid for itself with just one meeting. The quality of the connections that I made just on that first day were amazing! I have been back several times, and I have yet to leave an event feeling like it wasn’t worth my time. I have made several connections, clients, and even friends that I wouldn’t have if not for Connections!”
Desiree Petrich, Intentional Action LLC
What to Expect
EVENT TIMELINE
7:15 AM – Chamber staff arrives for setup
7:30 AM – Guests begin to arrive
7:45 AM – Host presentation (8–10 minutes) followed by guest introductions
8:30 AM – Door prize drawings (must be present to win!)
HOST RESPONSIBILITIES
Set Up for Success - Use an open layout with minimal seating to keep guests moving and networking.
Fuel the Fun - Offer coffee, water, and a light breakfast. Be sure to support fellow Chamber members when choosing your caterer.
Make It Memorable - Set up a registration table near the entrance and offer a couple fun door prizes (branded swag, gift cards, or local treats). The Chamber will coordinate volunteers to greet guests and emcee the event.
Help Spread the Word - Attend the Connection the week before your event to personally invite members and build excitement. Share a Facebook reel from your business page, tag the Chamber, and we’ll help boost the reach. The Chamber will also promote your event in the weekly e-newsletter and on social media.
Interested in hosting an event? Email info@willmarareachamber.com to reserve your date. The investment is $125.
Scheduling for 2027 Connections will begin in the fourth quarter.
2026 Connection Schedule
JULY - No Connections scheduled in July
AUGUST
7 - Hope Pregnancy Center | 1520 Mavis Lane, Willmar
14 - Open Door Christian Church | 12720 51st St NE, Spicer
21 - CentraCare Foundation | Rice Memorial Hospital - 301 Becker Ave SW, Willmar
28 - Marcus Construction | 2580 US-12, Willmar
SEPTEMBER
4 - No Connnection - Happy Labor Day
11 - United Community Action Partnership | 200 4th St SW, Willmar
18 - West Central Industries | 1300 SW 22nd St, Willmar
25 - Mainstream Boutique | 2211 1st St S, Willmar
OCTOBER
2 - Vinna Human Resources |412 Litchfield Ave SW, Willmar
9 - Community Christian School | 1300 19th Ave SW, Willmar
16 - Engan Associates | 311 4th St SW, Willmar
23 - Goodwill Easter Seals | 100 19th Ave SW, Willmar
30 - RELCO | 2331 3rd Ave SW, Willmar
NOVEMBER
6 - Ridgewater College | 2101 15th Ave NW, Willmar
13 - Conway Deuth & Schmiesing (CDS) | 331 3rd St SW, Willmar
20 - Home State Bank| 1610 US-12, Willmar
27 - No Connection - Happy Thanksgiving
DECEMBER
4 - MinnWest Technology Campus | Multi-Tech Building Fireplace Room - 1700 Technology Dr NE, Willmar
11 - Christianson CPAs and Consultants | 302 5th St SW, Willmar
18 - Heritage Bank Plaza | 310 1st St S, Willmar
25 - No Connection - Happy Holidays