The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Board thanks Zack for his service and wishes him well in his future endeavors.
As we enter a new chapter, we look ahead to continued growth and support for our local business community.
We are grateful for the work that has been done and remain focused on moving forward with continued energy, collaboration, and commitment to our members and community partners.
The Board of Directors is actively working to ensure a smooth transition and will share updates as appropriate. We appreciate your continued support as we remain dedicated to serving Geneseo and strengthening our local business community.
From The Current:
For additional context, here is a brief explanation of how chambers of commerce are structured and funded.
What a Chamber of Commerce Does—and How It Works
There has been some confusion about what a Chamber of Commerce is, how it operates, and what people should expect from it.
What a Chamber of Commerce Is
A Chamber of Commerce is a private, membership-based nonprofit organization created to support and advocate for businesses. It is not a government entity and does not function as a city department or public service agency.
Most chambers operate as 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations, a designation specifically designed to promote the common business interests of their members.
How Chambers Are Funded
Chambers of Commerce are not funded by the city, public budgets, or taxpayer dollars.
Instead, funding typically comes from:
Membership dues (the primary source)
Event registration fees and sponsorships
Program or initiative sponsorships
Occasionally, grants or private partnerships
Because chambers are member-funded, services and programming are tied to membership participation, not residency or business location alone.
What Chambers Typically Focus On
While activities vary by size and capacity, most chambers focus on:
Supporting member businesses
Facilitating networking and relationship-building
Offering promotional opportunities to members
Advocating for business interests
Hosting business-focused events and programs
Providing resources or education relevant to their members
These efforts are intentionally designed around the needs and priorities of the membership.
How Chambers Are Run
Chambers are generally governed by:
A volunteer Board of Directors, often composed of local business owners or leaders
A paid Executive Director and/or staff, depending on budget and organizational size
The board provides strategic direction and financial oversight. Day-to-day operations are handled by staff or contractors. Like any nonprofit, a chamber’s capacity is shaped by funding, staffing levels, volunteer involvement, and defined priorities.
Why Expectations Can Become Misaligned
Confusion often arises when chambers are assumed to be publicly funded, government-operated, or universally accountable to all residents. In reality, chambers exist to serve their members, within the limits of their resources.