Printable PDF forms:
• Membership Application
Online:
• Online application and payment
What is a Chamber of Commerce? It is a proactive partnership between business and professional peoplein a working effort to expand the economy of an area. It is a vehicle through which members can accomplish collectively what they could not do individually. A Chamber's greatest strength lies in attracting the greatest number of individuals and firms into membership, creating a pool of resources from which to draw ideas, energy and finances. A Chamber of Commerce is not a department of the town, county or state government; it is not a social service or charitable institution; it is not a private advertising, publicity or public relations agency.
The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce is a business
organization governed by an active board ofirectors
and a professional staff. It also has the non-profit
status of a 501 (c)6. Membership is tax-deductible
as a normal business expense, not as a charity.
Today, the Los Gatos Chamber's over 400 members
represent a broad range of retail businesses
as well as large multi-national corporations,
service organizations, home-based businesses,
educational institutions, health facilities
and organizations, places of worship, and individual
residents. The Chamber has been an important
part of this community and is committed to
the success of its member businesses, to the
economic growth of the Town of Los Gatos and
to the preservation of the region's quality
of life as well as promoting the energies and
efforts of its members toward the accomplishment
of common goals.
To business prospects and
newcomers, the Chamber represents the community's
self image.
To many, our Chamber of Commerce evokes pleasant images of Holiday Carriage Rides, sidewalksales, trips to China and a place to pick up a free map. The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce embodies all that, but more importantly, provides resources to businesses and the community. We are a catalyst, creating a vehicle through which professional people and businesses can work for the common good of the community.
The underlying goal
of all Chamber activity can best be summed
up in one word: Access. The Chamber provides members with access that
they otherwise would not have.
Consider:
- All member businesses, large or small, have access to the knowledge and experience of fellow chamber members.
- The clout of a unified business voice on local and state issues shapes the business environment of the future.
- Chambers can do things that member businesses do not have the time or resources to accomplish on their own, including advertising, public relations and event planning.
- Chamber membership is an excellent networking opportunity. By increasing contact and awareness among businesses, Chamber members develop strong relationships within the local business community, ultimately benefiting business growth.
- When it comes to representing the needs of the business community, there is indeed strength in numbers. When issues arise that impact businesses, the Chamber goes to work to present a unified voice of the business perspective. As a result, member businesses gain representation and credibility.
- The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce also benefits the community it serves — on a small scale by providing events and services and in a larger sense by promoting the growth of the local economy, the foundation of every community.
Today's Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce is an exciting and vital business tool as varied in scope as its member businesses.
Our Mission and Purpose
Representing the interests and serving the needs of all businesses operating in Los Gatos, The Town of Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce:
- Is a focal point in the community for information and referrals.
- Offers programs, services, and resources to help businesses be successful.
- Is the advocate for the unique business community of Los Gatos.
Information
The Chamber is the public relations arm of the town and often presents a first impression to visitors. In addition to greeting visitors in person, inquiry packets are mailed out frequently containing information about the town, the surrounding area, demographics and member businesses. Through the Chamber's management of the Los Gatos Visitors and Information Bureau, local information is provided to more than 5,000 visitors each year.
The Chamber' committees provide the organizational structure to accomplish not only the Chamber's goals and objectives, but also the opportunity for members to share information. Through the Chamber's newsletters and meetings, information is shared with the membership on such topics as:
- Capital improvements to the Town
- Parking issues
- Beautification
- How to improve our environment
- Special events
- Business Networking
Connections
“Connecting” or “networking” is what the Chamber is all about. The Chamber helps member businesses grow through an array of programs and activities unmatched by any other business organization. A wide range of ongoing events and membership meetings provide opportunities to meet other Chamber members, which often leads to the discovery of potential new customers and clients.
- Monthly Mixers
- Biz to Biz Networking Luncheons
- Biz Break
- Ambassador Program
- Chamber Committees
- Tourism Bureau
- Leadership Los Gatos
- Ribbon Cuttings for new businesses or special events
- Business Referrals
- Business/Professional Person of the Year
- Hot Deals and E-Coupons
- President's Circle
Current information on Chamber activities and upcoming events is always available on our web site.
Ronee
Nassi,
Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce