Programs & Events
Gilmer Chamber offers many unique programs and events.
Our Programs
Ambassadors
The purpose of an Ambassador is to support the engagement and expansion of Gilmer Chamber membership and to serve as official representatives to both existing and new businesses in the community, thereby reinforcing our position as the Champion for Business. As representatives of the Chamber, Ambassadors attend ribbon cuttings, groundbreaking, and other network functions. Anyone whose business/organization is a current chamber member in good standing is eligible to apply to be a member of the Ambassador team.
Drug Free Workplace
This program can assist your business in establishing a drug free workplace. Businesses meeting the five step criteria are eligible for a 7.5% Worker’s Compensation reduction.
Gilmer Leads Group
The Gilmer Leads Group will meet monthly for the purpose of networking and exchanging referrals and leads. Lunch is provided by a sponsor within the group each month. Meetings will take place on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 12:00 pm at the Piedmont Community Room. For more information, call Membership Director Ellen Grant at 706-635-7400.
Leadership Gilmer
The Leadership Gilmer program builds and strengthens a better community through training its leaders for the challenges of tomorrow. The goal of Leadership Gilmer is to develop informed leaders and channel their ideas and experiences toward community resources, issues and concerns to help direct the future of Gilmer County. This goal is achieved by programs, informal discussions and participatory experiences.
Our Annual Events
Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting, held in January, is an opportunity for the Chamber to show its appreciation to all our members. This is a chance for members to network with other members, the Board of Directors, Ambassadors, and Chamber Staff. Awards are presented throughout the event to honor and recognize outstanding individuals in our community. The Annual Meeting is also an opportunity for Chamber members to learn the Chamber’s initiatives for the upcoming year and reflect on the highlights and successes of the previous year. Several awards are presented, including Chamber Business of the Year, Sally Daniels Member of the Year, and Gilmer County Citizen of the Year.
Business Connections
Quarterly, we invite all Gilmer County businesses (Chamber members and non-members alike) to a networking event. These events are held outside of office hours, either before or after, to give members a chance to network and build relationships with others in the community.
Business Workshops
Four times a year we will have a business workshop with subjects important to our membership. Topics may include social media, marketing, and workforce development. Each workshop is a hands-on training and deep dive into the subject. Email elleng@gilmerchamber.com to claim your spot.
“Chamber 101”
Held quarterly, this is an opportunity for ALL members to get to know the chamber structure, staff, board, and most importantly to learn how to take advantage of the many benefits of chamber membership. This is a wonderful way to find our which chamber programs will most benefit your business. Come network, meet new businesses in the community, and walk away with the tools you need to make the most of chamber membership!
Education Celebration
The Chamber Board of Directors and staff want to make sure our educators are welcomed back to a new school year. For more business exposure, chamber members provide door prizes to be given away to the educators during their first staff meeting in appreciation of what they do for the youth of Gilmer County. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are also available during the days prior to school starting back. Additional doorprizes are distributed throughout the year during a monthly Facebook Live.
Network Luncheons and Breakfasts
Offered to chamber member, on the 2nd Thursday of each month members gather for lunch or breakfast to network, build business contacts, and hear guest speakers on subjects relevant to the business community. Each luncheon/breakfast is sponsored by a different organization, which gives a short presentation about their business. Door prizes are given away at the end of the event.
Operation Thank You
Each year our board members, ambassadors, and staff host an event for our members to thank them for their continued support. It is a small way of expressing our deep appreciation for their commitment to our community and their chamber.