The Enduring Value of Your NRBP Membership

written by Ferlanda Fox Nixon, Esq., President & CEO, NRBP

As we move through the summer, I want to take a moment to reflect on something incredibly important: the power and purpose of our NRBP community. In January, we launched our membership drive, and I've been so encouraged by the enthusiasm and commitment you've shown in helping us grow. Your efforts truly underscore the belief we share in the strength of a connected business community.

This month, I want to reemphasize the profound value that being a part of NRBP brings, not just to your individual business, but to the collective economic health of our region. As I shared previously, the benefits of chamber membership are well-documented and impactful:

• A Trusted Resource: Nationally, 81% of U.S. adults trust their local chamber as a key partner for business success. This trust is built on our shared dedication to providing reliable information and opportunities.
• Driving Economic Impact: Chambers are widely seen as catalysts for growth, with 90% of people believing they significantly contribute to local economic development. When we work together, we create a stronger foundation for prosperity.
• Boosting Your Business: Did you know that 64% of consumers are more likely to support businesses that are chamber members? Your membership signals a commitment to our community and can directly influence consumer choices.
• Community Leadership and Advocacy: We are seen as stewards of a strong local economy, with 76% viewing chambers as essential in tackling community challenges, and 65% of business owners recognizing chambers as advocates for business-friendly initiatives. We amplify your voice and champion policies that support your success.

Beyond these overarching benefits of chamber membership, NRBP offers unique, tiered advantages designed to maximize your engagement and growth.

• As a member, you gain access to all member-only events, including our valuable monthly virtual meetings and quarterly professional development workshops.
• You also can participate in the NRBP Engage & Exchange Podcast, sharing your insights with a broader audience, and post your news, events, promotions, and job opportunities in our weekly NRBP Engage & Exchange Update newsletter.
• For deeper involvement, you can participate on one of our four vital NRBP councils—Transportation, Nonprofit, Women's, and New Entrepreneurs—shaping key initiatives and forging stronger relationships.
• We also offer even more exclusive opportunities, such as access to leadership roundtable discussions, designed to foster high-level strategic conversations.

These tailored benefits are crafted to provide you with the specific resources and professional ties you need to succeed.

Understanding Our Collective Strength

While the benefits of chamber membership are clear and substantial, it's also important to have a clear understanding of what a chamber of commerce is and is not. The NRBP is a dynamic platform for connection, collaboration, and advocacy, but it's not designed to be a direct client or customer for your business. Our mission is to create an environment where you can thrive by connecting with other businesses, accessing vital resources, and benefiting from our collective advocacy.

Similarly, while we are deeply committed to fostering a robust local economy and tackling challenges head-on, no single organization, including a chamber of commerce, can be the sole arbiter of all regional economic issues. Our strength lies in our ability to convene, to facilitate dialogue, to advocate for the collective good, and to empower our members with the tools and connections they need to navigate the economic landscape successfully. We are a vital part of the solution, working alongside many others to build a resilient and vibrant Newark.
Continuing to Grow, Together

The enthusiastic response to our membership drive, running until August 31, truly highlights the spirit of our community. It’s a powerful reminder that when we unite, we amplify our impact and create more opportunities for everyone. Every new member strengthens our collective voice and expands our network, benefiting all of us.

If you’re already participating in the drive, thank you for your dedication! If you haven't yet, there's still plenty of time to get involved and help us welcome new businesses into our fold. Remember, NRBP staff members like Kirsten Giardi, our Vice President of Member Relations & Engagement ([email protected] or 973-242-4228), are ready to assist you every step of the way.

Let’s continue to empower one another and build an even stronger, more connected business environment for Newark.