FAQ's
What is a Chamber of Commerce?
A Chamber of Commerce is a not for profit membership organisation offering businesses access to a broad offering of business support services and business networking opportunities.
Chambers exist to help their members grow their market, connect them to other businesses in the region, offer international business support, help businesses save costs, feedback issues to local and national government and generally aim to improve the business environment in the region.
There are 53 Chambers of Commerce in the UK, accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce. Together we make up a strong network of trusted champions of businesses, places, and global trade.
The wider Chamber network represents 73,000 businesses who employ almost six million people across the UK, so we have a pretty loud voice both regionally, and nationally!
Why should I join?
Members join a Chamber of Commerce for many different reasons, whether it is to network with like-minded businesses in the region, or to raise their profile through our press channels. Membership offers a wide range of benefits.
Don’t just take our word for it, have a look at what our members say.
How much will membership cost me?
How many members do you have, and is membership relevant to my sector?
Which division should I join?
How many networking events can I attend?
How do I book onto events?
How long does membership last?
Who else can use my membership?
What is the relationship between GBCC and the British Chamber of Commerce?
The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is an accredited member of the British Chambers of Commerce Network (BCC) which represents 53 Chambers nationally.
As such, the GBCC adheres to the accreditation standards that are laid down by the BCC in relation to engagement with the business community, membership, financial health, governance and management and the regional, national and international development of the Chamber network.
Accreditation to the BCC provides access to national discounts and services for our members and it also ensures that our lobbying is effective both nationally and internationally.
How is the GBCC funded?
The Chamber is a private company which is funded in the main by membership subscriptions and income from business support services we provide.
We are a non-profit making company which means we reinvest any surplus back into the organisation in order to enhance the services we provide to our members.
Are you related to the government or the council?
Who will be my contact at the Chamber?
If I join the GBCC, do I get access to other Chambers?