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The Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce a surge in membership and the rollout of new initiatives designed to support and educate our local business community. In the past few months alone, fifty new businesses have joined the Chamber, reflecting a growing confidence in the economic outlook of the greater Easley area. “We’re seeing momentum across every business sector,” said Dr. Brian Swords, President of the Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce. “Adding fifty members in a quarter underscores the value companies place on networking, advocacy, and professional development within our region.” To build on this momentum, the Chamber has introduced two new flagship programs: Manufacturers Alliance: A collaborative platform for local manufacturers to share best practices, access specialized training, and advocate collectively on issues impacting the production sector. Click here for the August 12 Luncheon. The Chamber Academy: A dedicated educational arm offering workshops, certification programs, and guest lectures on topics ranging from digital marketing to financial management—open to all Chamber members at no additional cost. Recognizing that evening time slots often work better for small-business operators balancing tight daytime schedules, the Chamber has also reinstated its popular Business After Hours networking events. These gatherings provide an informal setting for businesses to connect one-on-one, showcase their offerings, and spark new partnerships. “Bringing back Business After Hours has been a top request from members,” added Swords. “It levels the playing field for smaller enterprises that can’t step away from the office during daytime hours.” Another area where the chamber is seeing tremendous engagement is in their Young Professionals (under 40) group. “Our YP committee has put in a lot of work to engage this sector, and we’re seeing great results and a lot of excitement” said Swords. The chamber has also added a part-time director of membership and engagement, which has helped ignite a surge in participation in chamber events. “We’re seeing participation increase in almost all of our events” said Swords. “This position has helped us connect with our new members and reconnect with many of our existing members.” Beginning in late July, the Chamber will be reintroducing their orientation program, Chamber 101, where new members can meet with the staff and learn more about the resources available through their chamber membership. The chamber is extending an invitation to new members, as well as existing members that want to be more engaged, to attend one of the Chamber 101 sessions. Registration is free for chamber members. You can register by going to www.easleychamber.org. With these strategic expansions, the Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce reaffirms its commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-looking business environment in the greater Easley and Powdersville area. For anyone interested in joining the chamber, you can find out more information by going to easleychamber.org/events. About the Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce: The Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce is a membership-driven organization dedicated to promoting economic growth, providing educational resources, and advocating for the interests of local businesses. Founded in 1965, the Chamber represents more than 350 member organizations across multiple industries and fosters collaboration to ensure the greater Easley area remains a thriving commercial hub. Media Contact: Neydi Ramirez, Marketing and Event Coordinator Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce Phone: (864) 859-2693 Email: nramirez@easleychamber.org Or Brian Swords, President and CEO Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce Phone: (864) 859-2693 Email: bswords@easleychamber.org