Business Support
Supporting Business at Every Stage
Advocacy. Connection. Promotion. Growth.
The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce exists to strengthen, support, and advocate for the businesses that power our local economy. From startups and sole proprietors to major employers and nonprofits, we work every day to ensure our business community has the connections, visibility, and resources needed to succeed.
This support goes far beyond traditional membership benefits—our Chamber serves as a convener, connector, advocate, and trusted first call for businesses across the Alleghany Highlands.
Advocacy & Representation
A Strong Voice for Business
We actively advocate for the needs of local businesses at the local, regional, and state level.
- Representing business interests in conversations with local governments, agencies, and regional partners
- Participating in workforce, economic development, tourism, and infrastructure discussions
- Elevating business concerns related to signage, zoning, parking, broadband, workforce, and downtown vitality
- Serving as a liaison between businesses and decision-makers
“We may not always have the answer—but nine times out of ten, we know who does.”
Direct Business Support & Problem-Solving
Hands-On Support When It Matters Most
We pride ourselves on being a trusted resource for businesses navigating challenges and opportunities.
- One-on-one support and referrals
- Connecting businesses with funding, grants, and technical assistance
- Guidance on marketing, branding, and digital presence
- Helping businesses navigate growth, transitions, and unexpected challenges
- Acting as a connector to workforce partners, lenders, educators, and service providers
Promotion & Visibility
Helping Businesses Get Seen
The Chamber actively promotes its members and the local business community through multiple platforms.
- Business spotlights, announcements, and social media promotion
- Ribbon cuttings, grand openings, and milestone celebrations
- Inclusion in Chamber and tourism websites, newsletters, and publications
- Cross-promotion through tourism marketing and visitor outreach
- Event-driven exposure through networking and community programs
75+ events hosted in 2025
51 new members welcomed
5+ million people reached on social media
Networking, Relationships & Community Building
More Than Events—Real Connections
We create intentional opportunities for businesses to build meaningful relationships.
- Business After Hours and networking events
- Merchant Meetups across Covington, Clifton Forge, and Alleghany County
- Coffee & Conversation and Lunch & Learn programs
- Collaborative events with partners and sponsors
- Relationship-building that leads to referrals, partnerships, and growth
Chamber programming isn’t about how many events we host—it’s about the relationships built through them.
Education & Capacity Building
Helping Businesses Grow Smarter
We offer programming designed to help businesses adapt, grow, and thrive.
- Workshops and Lunch & Learns (marketing, finance, AI, branding, operations)
- Training opportunities for business owners and staff
- Access to regional and state-level resources and expertise
- Support for entrepreneurs, startups, and emerging leaders
Workforce & Talent Connections
Supporting Today’s Workforce and Tomorrow’s Talent
We work with partners to address workforce challenges and opportunities.
- Collaboration with educational institutions and training partners
- Support for workforce development initiatives
- Promotion of career opportunities and employer visibility
- Engagement in regional workforce conversations
Tourism & Economic Impact
Tourism as Business Development
As both a Chamber of Commerce and the region’s Destination Marketing Organization, our work directly supports local businesses.
- Tourism marketing drives visitor spending to local businesses
- Events and promotions increase downtown foot traffic
- Branding and placemaking strengthen the overall business environment
- Visitors today become residents, employees, and investors tomorrow
Collaboration & Partnerships
Stronger Together
We believe the strongest business communities are built through collaboration.
- Partnerships with nonprofits, localities, schools, and regional organizations
- Public-private collaboration on projects and initiatives
- Acting as a neutral convener to bring people to the table
Testimonials
Your Partner in Business Success
Whether you’re launching a new venture, expanding an existing business, or simply looking to stay connected, the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce is here to support you.