Let’s step outside Ashville for a moment.

According to the US Census Bureau. Pell City is one of the Top 10 fastest growing cities of Alabama. As the population grows, so grows the economy. Business owners who do not belong to the Pell City Chamber of Commerce may want to consider membership.

Urainah Glidewell, director of the Pell City Chamber of Commerce since 2019, said the biggest benefit of belonging to the chamber is “making contacts with other business owners and the community.”

Upon joining, new members are given a ‘publicity boost’ packet filled with existing members, help with advertising, social media tips and the new member certificate. The chamber online business listing is linked to its website and which has access to the mailing list and chamber calendar.

New members can also have a infomercial, conducted by the board of directors, on social media. They can post job listings, sales and special deals. Every new company is entitled to a free ribbon cutting and recognition on anniversaries. These ribbon cuttings are in the newsletter, on the calendar and on social media.

With this kind of advertising and promotion, it is almost impossible to see one’s own listing without seeing everyone else’s. This can lead to partnerships on long-term projects or one-time endeavors. One may even find a service or product he or she needs, or know someone who does.

The chamber also has many programs and events. The Business Building Breakfast consists of a guest speaker and door prizes. On the third Thursday of every month is lunch and learn. This is a continuing education program for business owners at all stages of their careers. Like most chambers events, it is an opportunity to network and make contacts.

Another opportunity afforded by the chamber is to promote businesses through sponsorship. This can be a one time event, such as a school play or a non-profit organization, or one of St. Clair County’s historical societies. The sponsor gets exposure for his brand and people associate that brand with something positive. and it is an opportunity to receive by giving.

Every year the chamber hands out awards for small businesses medium businesses and big businesses. They also give awards to the Policeman of the Year, Best Non-profit Organization of the Year, and Citizen of the Year.

Competition may be the cornerstone of capitalism, but Gladwell and the Pell City Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has found a way to temper the competitive instinct with a sense of community.

To join, visit the info@pellcitychamber.com or call 205-337-3388.