Are you utilizing your SLO Chamber membership to its fullest potential? Whether your goals include increasing visibility for your business, building relationships or staying informed on local business and policy issues, your Chamber membership is here to support you and is a powerful resource that can help you grow your network, promote your brand and stay connected to the SLO community.
We encourage members to make the most of their membership by staying up to speed about the many marketing opportunities, networking events and business resources we offer. Below, you’ll find an overview of key opportunities and ways to connect with Chamber staff to get started.
Membership Refreshers
If you’re unsure where to begin, a membership refresher is the perfect jumping-off point. Our team is happy to meet with you and dive into opportunities that align with your business goals. Members can request a refresher at any time by reaching out to the Membership Director, Kaila Anderson, at [email protected].
The Chamber also hosts quarterly New Member Orientations. While designed for new members, these sessions are also open to existing members who would like a refresher on programs, benefits and ways to get involved.
Building Connections with Fellow Businesses
Another great Chamber membership benefit is access to networking events where you can connect with fellow business owners and professionals. One of the easiest ways to get started is by attending a Membership Mixer, held on the third Wednesday of every month. These mixers are free to attend, take place outside of regular business hours and allow members to bring a non-member guest.
For those attending solo or who are new members, Chamber Ambassadors are available to make introductions and help everyone feel welcome. Each mixer is hosted by a different Chamber member and offers a relaxed social environment to build meaningful relationships and connections.
Another popular networking opportunity is Good Morning SLO, your community newspaper brought to life. This is the Chamber’s monthly breakfast program held on the fourth Thursday of each month. This event brings members together over breakfast and coffee while featured speakers share updates on community news, local initiatives and upcoming events. It’s an ideal way to stay informed, exchange ideas and strengthen connections.
If there’s a specific Chamber member you’d like to meet, the membership team is always happy to facilitate a personal introduction! Let us know who you’d like to meet and we will e-introduce you.
Promote Your Business Through Chamber Marketing
The SLO Chamber website is highly trafficked, attracting a wide audience that includes tourists, locals and business owners. With more than 500,000 annual visits, the website is a powerful platform for promoting your business. Advertising opportunities begin at $85 per month, and enhanced membership directory listings, which are featured at the top of the directory, are available for just $30 each month.
In addition to website exposure, each Chamber member receives one free inclusion per year in a Chamber e-blast, which reaches more than 3,000 subscribers. This is an excellent way to promote an event, announcement or business milestone. E-flyer submissions are due by the 10th of each month, with additional inclusions available for $175 for businesses and $125 for nonprofits.
Members are also encouraged to keep their online directory listings up to date through the member portal. Adding a logo and verifying contact information ensures your business is accurately represented in one of the most comprehensive directories in the county!
Submissions and questions can be sent to [email protected].
Take Advantage of Featured Membership Opportunities
For members who enjoy hosting and want to showcase their business, hosting a Membership Mixer is a great opportunity. These events typically draw 250-300 attendees and allow business owners to highlight their services, share their space and connect with fellow members. Interested members should review hosting guidelines and contact the membership team for more details.
Another high-visibility option is purchasing a Soapbox at Good Morning SLO. For $225, members receive two minutes on stage to promote their business in front of an audience that exceeds 200 attendees of community leaders.
Promotional tables at Good Morning SLO provide another effective way to connect directly with attendees. For $135, businesses can set up a table in the courtyard before and after the event to distribute marketing materials or sell event tickets. With only eight tables available each month, these spots are first-come, first-served.
For a more budget-friendly option, members can take advantage of Good Morning SLO flyers for $85. Flyers are distributed digitally to attendees the morning of the event and displayed in the SLO Chamber Visitor Center for one week following the program.
Getting Involved in the Community
Community involvement is a meaningful way to gain even more value from your Chamber membership. Serving on a Chamber committee allows members to learn about advocacy efforts while helping shape the future of the local business environment. Educational events such as Insight Studio tours and workshops provide engaging learning opportunities, while candidate forums give members a chance to meet local political candidates and better understand key issues. Signature events like the State of the State and the Housing Summit offer valuable insights into the economic and policy trends impacting our region.
Your SLO Chamber membership is an incredible tool, and our team is here to help you utilize it to its fullest potential. Whether you’re looking to grow your network, increase visibility, or get more involved in the community, we encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities available. We love hearing from our members, so please don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know how we can best support you and your business!