Support Us Button Widget

Resources for local businesses around the Midlands through Chamber of Commerce organizations

If you own a local business, are thinking about launching one, or are interested in community resources for businesses, consider joining a local chamber of commerce.

Mural in the Columbia Chamber

Mural in the Columbia Chamber | Photo by @lacey_does

We asked our readers what local resources they’d like to know more about and Michelle N. asked, “Are there resources out there to help small businesses grow or just get started?”

Good news, Michelle — we have a full business resource guide that tells you where to start, how to get plugged in locally, helps you find financial resources, and more.

If you want to take it a step further, own a local business, or are interested in community resources, the local chamber of commerce might be a good fit for you.

Have you heard of the saying, “it takes a village?” Well, chamber of commerce organizations were created on a similar thought that it takes a village for a business to succeed. The chamber provides resources that you didn’t know you needed or could have access to.

Being involved in the local chamber is one way to amplify your reach and grow your network. Think: an in-person LinkedIn experience. Locally, there is the Columbia Chamber, which brings 1,100 businesses together in an effort to connect, engage, impact, and transform the local business environment.

The Columbia Chamber also advocates on behalf of local businesses, provides leadership opportunities, supports economic development initiatives, helps with student and career development, offers a wide variety of events every month, and much more.

If your business is in one of Columbia’s surrounding communities, don’t forget to check out the:

These organizations provide similar services and resources but on a hyper-local level.

For statewide support and resources, there’s the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. The organization’s goal is to provide the best business opportunities + create a big impact for businesses in the state. It promotes pro-job and pro-business policies, through coordinated strategies, training opportunities, and networking events.

More from COLAtoday
A guide to the best karaoke spots in Columbia, featuring venues for singing, fun themes, and private rooms.
College football is back — here’s how to stream the games, tailgate like a pro, and cheer on the Gamecocks this 2024 season.
Explore Columbia’s coworking spaces, including the new Venture X, offering unique environments and premium options for freelancers and professionals.
The perfect way to experience The Big Mo? Pack-up your car with snacks, a few drinks, blankets + pillows to drive out to see movies under the stars.
Here are 10 tips for students who are new to Columbia. Learn how to get around, where to eat, and some local knowledge to prepare you for at least four years in the Soda City.
An all-inclusive guide to business resources if you’re looking to start a business in Columbia
Do you need more ways to beat the heat? Check out our list of pools, water parks, and splash pools in Columbia.
Here are 10 spots you can grab a frank around Columbia, SC.
Have you ever wondered what Public Works does in your county? We are providing you a quick rundown of the basic tasks this civic department completes and how to interact with it.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or the next Tiger Woods, these 22 golf courses in Cola are sure to make for a good round.