The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives has named the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama the recipient of its 2021 Chamber of the Year award. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, ACCE has more than 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations from across North America and Europe as members, representing more than 9,000 industry professionals.
Those honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have demonstrated organizational strength and made an impact on key community priorities such as business development, education, and quality of life.
“Through the challenges of the past year, the value and relevance of chambers of commerce have never been more apparent,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “This achievement reflects how hard chambers work to ensure their impact and success well beyond these difficult times. Congratulations on the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama’s remarkable leadership, commitment to its community and dedication to the chamber profession.”
The Chamber accepted the award July 20 during ACCE’s Chamber Innovation Summit.
“Being named Chamber of the Year by our international association reflects the passion and dedication the Chamber has in not only serving its members, but in working to make a difference for all of West Alabama,” said Elizabeth Winter, Market Executive for Regions Bank and Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “Despite significant obstacles encountered in 2020, the Chamber positively impacted the economic growth of the region, and better positioned our business community to move forward.”
Chambers of commerce interested in competing for the award first must qualify by participating in a vigorous multi-stage process. Organizations entering the Chamber of the Year competition must meet minimum thresholds in at least three of five key performance areas, including net revenue and assets, membership account retention, and membership dollar retention.
To ensure the fairest competition, applicants are grouped into four categories based on: annual revenue, membership, area population and other factors.
