Beyond networking: Nambour Chamber backs businesses

Chamber vice president, Brian Bugenhagen at the April Coffee Catch Up.

May is Small Business month in Queensland and it offers an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the vital role small and family businesses play in building the state’s economy and communities.

As business owners and operators can attest, running a business can be a lonely experience, and this is where organisations like Chambers of Commerce can provide opportunities for networking, knowledge, advocacy, and connection.

Nambour’s Chamber of Commerce is an active and growing organisation that works tirelessly to champion its members, and the broader business community.

Thanks to the coordination of regular networking and speaking events and member communications, the Nambour Chamber has built a strong and engaged membership base.

“Attending events isn’t always possible, so by following our socials and opening our emails, businesses and not for profit groups can save money, find out about opportunities, stay informed, and access helpful resources from Government departments,” said Member Services Officer, Julie Smedley.

“Our monthly Coffee Catch Ups have become enormously popular and well attended, with between 70 - 80 attendees at each event. We use these events to present guest speakers from other businesses, relevant business and community organisations, and all tiers of government,” said Vice President, Brian Bugenhagen.

“It is an exceptional opportunity for business owners and managers to network with other business owners and our elected representatives.”

But the Chamber offers a great deal more than just networking opportunities, having very recently made a stand on behalf of CBD businesses regarding the proposed sale of the Howard Street car park.

“There will be times when we have to make a stand, in no uncertain terms, to advocate for our business community,” Mr Bugenhagen said.

“No community can hope to grow if their business community is not also thriving. Small business is the engine room of our economy and we will not hesitate to go in to bat in support of our small business owners as and when it is necessary.”

With a huge range of benefits available for all members, even organisations that can’t make it to a monthly networking meeting can still be rewarded. “But the biggest reward is for Nambour,” Ms Smedley said. 

“Membership fees paid to the not for profit group are re-invested into projects and initiatives that are designed to help make Nambour thrive through increased investment, visitation and business growth.

“If you have been sitting on the fence about joining the Chamber, the 4 key things we can offer your organisation are to be visible, be informed, be supported, and to belong.”

To find out more about the Nambour Chamber of Commerce, go to nambourchamber.com.au. The next Coffee Catch Up is tomorrow (May 7), at the new Burnside State High School auditorium, from 8am - 9.30am. You can register your attendance on the Chamber website.