Sarasota chamber up for national Chamber of the Year title

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce has been named a finalist for the 2024 Chamber of the Year title from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. The Sarasota chamber is among 12 finalists in the country up for the honor.

Based on factors like population and revenue, the association divided the 12 finalists into four categories. As a result, Sarasota will be pitted against two others in its category. The other chambers it is competing with are the Bend Chamber of Commerce in Bend, Oregon, and Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Appleton, Wisconsin.

To qualify for Chamber of the Year, chambers must meet certain thresholds in areas like net revenue and membership account retention. To apply for the honor, they submit a written application covering operational and programmatic work, which is scored by peer chamber executives who determine the finalists.

"This year's finalists represent the best in the chamber industry," Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE president and CEO, says in a statement. "They are community leaders and innovators, driving growth and regional prosperity. We congratulate them on this outstanding achievement."

Winners will be selected based on an interview before a panel of experienced chamber professionals, according to the association. 

"We are incredibly honored and excited" about being named a finalist, the Sarasota chamber posted on Facebook. "This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our amazing Chamber team, members, and supporters. … Together, we are making a difference."

At ACCE’s annual convention on July 17 in Dallas, the Chamber of the Year winners will be announced.