For Immediate Release – December 17, 2024

Contact:
Brian Otten, Marketing Director
Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce
715-848-5947 | botten@wausauchamber.com

Public Opinion Poll Affirms Pivotal Role of Chambers of Commerce

U.S. adults recognize the wide-sweeping impact of their local chamber, ACCE/Harris Poll survey finds

WAUSAU — Results from a nationwide public opinion poll indicate chambers of commerce are vital to the prosperity of their communities. The Harris Poll survey, conducted on behalf of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), finds more than four out of five adults in the U.S. agree that their local chamber of commerce is a trusted resource and partner for businesses. About nine in ten of survey respondents feel that their local chamber has an impact on growing the local economy (90%) and addressing challenges within their community (88 percent).

“The poll’s findings assert the crucial role chambers of commerce play for businesses, economies and communities,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, President and CEO of ACCE. “Chambers are trusted and innovative organizations. As a result, we are seeing tremendous momentum to bring even more bold leadership and lasting impact on the communities we serve.”

One of the key findings of the poll was that Chambers serve both businesses and communities. 76 percent of U.S. adults agree that local chambers are stewards of a strong local economy. 74 percent believe local chambers create jobs and promote local community development. 72 percent believe local chambers play a key role in addressing community challenges. 

“Learning that 76 percent of US adults agree that local chambers are stewards of a strong local economy, reinforces why businesses in central Wisconsin support the Greater Wausau Chamber with membership,” said Kathy Peterson, membership director at the Chamber. “My work providing our member investors opportunities to build relationships and support their business with valuable resources, is the driving force in my position with the organization.”

Additional insights and the survey’s methodology can be found at acce.org/poll. Questions about the study may be directed to Jen Pruden, communications manager, resources and benchmarking, at ACCE at jpruden@acce.org.

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The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce is the source for business information in the Wausau Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The organization has earned a 5-Star Accreditation, one of only two chambers in the state with that designation. The Chamber strengthens member businesses and enhances the region by building business success. For more information on the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce, visit us online at www.wausauchamber.com or call 715-845-6231.