What is a Chamber of Commerce?
A chamber of commerce (or board of trade) is a form of business network, for example, a local organization of businesses whose goal is to further the interests of businesses. Business owners in towns and cities form these local societies to advocate on behalf of the business community. Local businesses are members, and they elect a board of directors or executive council to set policy for the chamber. The board or council then hires a President, CEO or Executive Director, plus staffing appropriate to size, to run the organization. Okay I understand that.
Are we one of the oldest Chamber of Commerce?
The first chamber of commerce was founded in 1599 in Marseille, France. Another official chamber of commerce would follow 65 years later, probably in Bruges, then part of the Spanish Netherlands. So how old are we?
Carleton Place Town Hall Photo
The Honourable Perrin Beatty of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce speaks to local business owners at the Carleton Place & District Chamber of Commerce breakfast this morning at the Town Hall. This year our Chamber celebrates a century of support for local business. Congratulations!
Historical Notes