2018/2019 MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION GUIDE LEARN CONNECT ADVOCATE GROW
A B O U T US The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to growing and sustaining the economic prosperity of our community by serving, connecting and representing our members. If you're part of a business or organization that operates in the Town of Lincoln and surrounding area and you're passionate about connecting, growing, and having a voice in your community, then membership in the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is the right choice for you. There s many reasons to be a part of a local Chamber of Commerce like ours from our perspective one of the most important is that as a member, you will be working with a strong network of more than 250 other local organizations who are passionate about maximizing the economic opportunities here in Lincoln. In addition to the many cost-saving programs available, a membership with our Chamber delivers exposure & branding through posts in our e-newsletters, cross promotions on social media, and through your listing on our website linking to your own online presence. We provide advocacy and information around local political issues, and of course we ve got great events designed to create learning opportunities as well as enable you to make connections to local consumers, decision makers and business leaders. We appreciate your interest in our Chamber, and invite you to learn more about membership and it s benefits. Please reach out to us anytime we look forward to connecting soon! and representing our members. A W O R D F R O M O U R P R E S I D E N T The strength of the Lincoln Chamber is its members. Offering valuable and essential services that support business growth is the commitment of our Board of Directors and Executive Director. The Lincoln Chamber strives to meet the needs of its membership, and the last 12 months has been a testament to that commitment! I hope to see you at one of the many Chamber events coming up this season. Proud Member of the NIAGARA CHAMBER PARTNERSHIP In Niagara, 8 community Chambers have joined together to offer you a truly regional experience that gives you more exposure, more connections, and a better understanding of business across Niagara! As a member in good standing of your local Chamber, you are eligible to become an Associate Member of any participating Chamber for only an additional $75/year. It s affordable, it s easy, and provides you with the opportunity to take advantage of membership benefits across Niagara at a fraction of the cost of individual membership. Sign up to become an Associate Member today! Gary Bruce, President Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
C R E AT E A BUZ Z Looking for a simple and cost effective way to get your organization s brand and message out in front of your target audience? Membership in the Chamber provides a wide variety of ways to increase your exposure locally and across the region. ONLINE MEMBER DIRECTORY Every member of the Chamber is featured in our Online Membership Directory. Our website averages over 3,200 visits and over 2,100 unique visitors each month. When people are looking to shop locally, our website is one of the first places they visit to find out what products and services are available in our town. MEMBER NEWSLETTER Our semi-monthly e-newsletter is an ideal way to get your latest news and promotions out into the inboxes of a large local audience. Sent to over 600 unique email addresses, members have the opportunity to submit flyers, promotions, events, or specific details of their products and services for no additional fee. SOCIAL MEDIA We all know that a social media presence is a necessity in today s marketplace, but it can be challenging to build a meaningful and engaged following. Our Chamber is excited about generating opportunities for online cross-promotion with our members on our social media platforms - create and send us a post and be seen by more than 3,500 viewers each month. The Chamber of Commerce is the best way to connect with local businesses and make sure your voice is heard by municipal, regional and federal government. Come to a Business After 5 and other events to see what's happening in Lincoln. David Hoare, London Born Wine Company BLOG POSTS Our members are subject-matter experts across a broad spectrum, and we re working to create a space to allow your voice to be heard. Our new online blog features posts from our members on topics that matter to our community and as part of our new partnership with Metroland Media & the Grimsby Lincoln News, selected posts will be published as part of their online community content feature. SPONSORSHIPS & ADVERTISING Looking for a great way to increase your exposure AND support your Chamber? Consider sponsoring one of our major events, being a part of our Corporate Partner Banner, or placing an ad on our website or in this Guide. We ve got many different opportunities to choose from, and at least one is sure to fit your budget and your organization s advertising needs. Anna Murre and the gang at the Lincoln Chamber are fantastic. They work tirelessly for the betterment of the local business community, and the connections we have made have been very valuable. Tim Breadner, Proforma Breadner & Co.
M E M B E R S H I P BENEFITS Networking, learning opportunities, business development, price discounts on products you need we re here to help your organization succeed. Here are just a few of the ways the Chamber works to provide you with the tools and resources to grow your business in Lincoln: NETWORKING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Advance your interests, develop your business and foster valuable new business relationships through monthly events including Business After 5s, Networking Breakfasts, Lunch & Learns, Dinner Meetings, and more! Host an event, or just attend and make connections. Call us to find out how to showcase your organization at our next event. INSURANCE Through the Chamber Group Insurance Plan you have access to highly rated health, dental and employee benefit plans that are affordable, locally serviced, and customizable for any size business. There are also excellent rates available for your home, auto and travel insurance. COST SAVING PARTNERSHIPS As a member in good standing, you are eligible for all of our Chamber Affinity Partner programs, which include a variety of business services and discounts on products and services to help your business thrive and succeed. Sign up and start saving money today!
ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP POLITICAL ADVOCACY INFORMATION & RESOURCES We have a strong sponsorship and advertising program that allows our members to generate greater exposure within our local community. Membership in the Chamber means your business interests are represented at all levels of government. Membership connects you to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, providing you access to a wealth of information including content from their policy experts. Take full advantage of membership advertising when you sign up and choose which opportunities make the most sense for your organization. Gain access to closer contact with our local political leaders through networking events, small group forums, and events like our annual Breakfast with the Politicians and Mayor s Luncheon. Our partnership with the Lincoln Public Library creates ongoing opportunities for you to attend learning events tailored to small businesses and entrepreneurs.
C O S T S AV I N G PROGRAMS Savings programs only matter if they re for something you really need. Through the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, we are pleased to be able to offer our members discounts through a wide array of trusted business service companies. You won t need them all, but even just tapping into one or two of them can generate significant savings while providing you with products and services to help you grow your business. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CREDIT CARD PROCESSING Access to highly rated health, dental and employee benefit plans that are affordable and locally serviced. The Chambers Plan is designed specifically for small businesses. It gives small business owners and entrepreneurs premium stability and access to group insurance and employee benefits that previously were only available to large corporations Cheaper rates on electronic payment processing and payment solutions program through First Data Canada. First Data provides exclusive member payment processing rates, terminals and solutions to help businesses be more competitive. If we cannot beat your current payment processing fees, you will earn a $1,000 MasterCard gift card GAS INSURANCE COMPUTERS MARKETING You can enjoy an exceptional discount of 3.5 off every litre of fuel you purchase at Esso stations with the Chamber Esso Business Card. Home, auto, and travel insurance along with extra benefits including 24/7 claims assistance, Air Miles Reward Miles, and special offers and promotions. Chamber members save up to 30% off the everyday public web price on a wide range of Lenovo s products including laptops, tablets, accessories, servers, and more. Up to 25% off Constant Contact online marketing tool, which aids businesses in daily communications to customers. From email marketing to event management to social sharing and more. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT LincolnChamber.ca FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS AND MORE COST SAVING PROGRAMS! DOES YOUR BUSINESS EXPORT? As part of our service to members, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce can certify Certificates of Origin. A Certificate of Origin (CO) is a document attesting that goods exported in a shipment have been wholly obtained, produced, manufactured or processed in a particular country. NOTE: Original document must be duly signed by an authorized representative and be notarized (or letter of waiver must be on file)
LEGAL SERVICES SHIPPING Discounts on legal and Identity theft services for individuals, small and medium sized businesses. Includes advice, 24/7 emergency assistance, legal document reviews, Wills and Power of Attorneys, debt collection assistance and more. Chamber members save 40% on domestic and international shipments with UPS. Make the most of your membership and take advantage of some of the most competitive rates available on shipping services. Put logistics to work for you its free to sign up and there are no minimum shipping requirements. CONFERENCING TRAVEL OFFICE SUPPLIES CLOUD Full-service unbiased business conferencing needs. Discount rates on audio and video conferencing, web sharing, collaboration and webinar services live or on demand. Visit Thailand, South Africa, Bali or Iceland at a reduced Chamber member cost. Enjoy your custom escorted tour vacations at unbeatable prices. Up to 90% discount on office products and workplace solutions with no delivery charges or minimum order. Partnered brands include PaperMate, Rubbermaid, Ergotron and more. Don t take chances with your data. Quantum RBS offers members discounts on cloud back-up and recovery program, protecting business digital assets at a reliable low cost. Ross Matheson (289) 455-2267 rmatheson@starmetrolandmedia.com All new members receive 50% OFF Any Size Ad in the Grimsby Lincoln News Michele Lane 289-455-2376 mlane@starmetrolandmedia.com Mark Dawson 289-407-7148 mdawson@starmetrolandmedia.com
M E M B E R EVENTS A big part of being a Chamber member is participating in events. We recognize that your time is at a premium, and we strive to make sure each event delivers exceptional value. Designed to help you connect, learn, & grow your business, we also work to create opportunities for you to understand what s happening in local, provincial and federal politics and how that affects your business, to support our community and to celebrate achievements. we hope you'll make these events an important part of your schedule this year! NETWORKING BREAKFASTS Start your day off on the right foot by making connections and growing your network. Meet other members and share your business message. Bring lots of business cards and practice your elevator pitch it s your opportunity to share who you are with a wide range of other business professionals. LUNCH & LEARNS Find it hard to carve out time for professional development? Looking for a solution that fits your schedule, allows you to learn and interact, but doesn t require a lot of time or commitment? Join us for Lunch at the Library to discuss topics chosen by our members to help you grow your BUSINESS AFTER 5s It s not just about networking it s also about getting to know more about what s happening in your community and learning about what other businesses are doing to succeeding here in Lincoln. Host an evening of light refreshments for our members, and show them a bit more about what makes your Mayor business. Easton s Golf Classic 2018 organization stand out from the rest. Networking is a very important component to my role in our organization and attending these events allows me to develop and maintain contacts as well as update members on programs and services Karen Cake, Employment Help Centre
Congratulations to our 2018 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Recipients OUTSTANDING BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS As Lincoln s most prestigious annual business awards, our Business of the Year Award acknowledges and celebrates high achievement in business, while other awards recognize organizations commitment to service and giving back to our community. ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC Partnering with the Town of Lincoln & the Niagara Community Foundation, the Lincoln Chamber is proud to have raised over $160,000 over the past 7 years! All funds raised through this tournament are distributed within Lincoln, & support ongoing community projects and organizations. POLITICIAN S BREAKFAST, MAYOR S LUNCHEON As part of our advocacy commitment, we create opportunities for members to connect with every level of government. Our Politician's Breakfast features our MP, MPP, Regional Councillor, and Mayor as our guests, while our annual Are you, or do you know a local Mayor s Luncheon allows you We couldn t achieve this ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING business that exemplifies to connect with municipal without the support of our excellence?includes Submit athe introduction ofmembers officials and hear plans for our and our community, our new 2018/2019 Board of Directors, a brief financial nomination form today! community s future. sowhile please sponsor, andmeal be with new and old report, a few announcements enjoying an golf elegant friends part of this event! Your Chance to Vote!
A N N U A L M E M B E R S H I P FEES As a membership driven non-profit organization, we take our responsibility to deliver value to our members very seriously. Our rates are based on the number of Full Time Equivalent employees in your organization, and we re happy to offer a 10% discount off these rates for charitable organizations. Your membership fees allow us to continue to offer the programming, events, and exposure that enable your business to grow and prosper. Your membership with our Chamber includes access to the resources of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce as well connecting you to the largest business association in Canada which represents 200,000 businesses of all sizes in all sectors of the economy. Employees* Annual Membership Fee Nominee Entitlement 1-2 $225 1 3-10 $270 1 11-20 $360 2 21-30 $435 2 31-50 $545 3 50+ $599 4 *Employees are considered to be anyone working for your organization, based on Full Time Equivalents FRIEND OF THE CHAMBER Membership Class Not part of an organization, but still want to be a part of the Chamber? We offer a Friend of the Chamber Membership Class option that allows you to receive many of the same benefits as a regular membership with some restrictions. Enjoy the cost saving programs, member events, and keep in touch with what s going on in our community - all at a reduced cost. See our website for more details! @LincolnChamberOfCommerce I have been very impressed with the quality of events put on by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce! Looking forward to attending more in the fall! Amanda Black, McNally House Hospice You've each got your own reasons for being a part of our Chamber - why not share those reasons with colleagues & friends? With our Member Referral Program, each new member that joins the Chamber as a result of your official referral will earn you $50 off your next year's renewal! Call to find out more details - and invite a friend to join you at our next event! Any current Chamber member can participate in this program. A referral bonus will be awarded for a NEW business or organization that joins the Chamber as a direct result of a current member s efforts. Organizations are considered NEW if they have not been a member of our Chamber for at least 2 years. There is NO limit to the number of referrals you can make, but you can only earn up to 100% off of your next renewal, and your accrued bonus will reset on your renewal date.
B OA RD & COMMITTEES A strong Chamber of Commerce relies on a dedicated Board of Directors to set strategic direction, drive initiatives and promote the Chamber s mandate of growing and sustaining the economic prosperity of our community. The Board and Chamber cannot be effective without the support of our membership and the volunteers who plan, organize, and execute the Chamber s initiatives and strategic goals. If you re looking to be more involved with your Chamber, please consider being a part of our Board or one of the following committees: MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Determine initiatives to attract new members, engage current members, and develop strategies to enhance value for existing members PROGRAMMING/EVENTS COMMITTEE Develop & implement effective membership events and programming to enable networking, learning, and collaboration for our members GOLF TOURNAMENT COMMITTEE Plan and execute our annual Golf Tournament, source sponsors and community partners, and maximize our contribution to local charities OUTSTANDING BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS COMMITTEE Plan & execute our annual celebration of exemplary businesses and organizations within our community, source sponsors & community partners, and create an outstanding experience for recipients and attendees COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING COMMITTEE Identify & document best practices for member communication and Chamber marketing, create & implement effective strategies to maximize our reach GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE Identify issues & governmental policies affecting Chamber members, connect our members with government resources, build relationships with representatives of local, regional, provincial & federal governments It s not hard to join the Lincoln Chamber and begin taking advantage of the many benefits of membership. You can give us a call to get more details, or complete our online application form on our website. We look forward to getting to know you & your organization better! 4961 King St., Beamsville 905-563-5044 LincolnChamber.ca