Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
A powerful network of influential individuals leads the business scene in Utah Valley, directing change and shining a light on the valley's consistent economic progress. This network of individuals is the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce. With their motto of "Lead, convene, influence," the Chamber is one of the best ways for business owners to gain a community and make their voices heard.
A remarkable number of Utahns are, in fact, business owners. The United States Small Business Administration reports that Utah is home to 313,590 small businesses, accounting for 99.3% of all businesses in the state.
When you own your own company, joining a chamber of commerce is an invaluable resource. The Utah Valley Chamber is home to a wide variety of members, from small businesses ranging to huge names like Ancestry, dōTERRA and PEG Companies.
Joining your local chamber gives your business support and even some perks. You get access to the organization's mailing list access, which can be important for marketing or research. You also can apply for and receive monetary grants and funding if you're an up-and-coming entrepreneur.
Exposure and marketing
Being part of chamber gives your business a sense of legitimacy, not to mention better exposure. Most chambers provide opportunities for streamlined marketing, sponsorship opportunities, and chances to get more involved in your local community. Through a vast directory of local businesses, your business can easily be found through a trusted resource.
Networking is always an important part of owning a business, and being a chamber member allows you to make new business contacts, meet like-minded business owners, and collaborate with other members. You'll foster mutually beneficial business relationships that help make the community stronger.
Utah Valley Chamber CEO shares principles of prosperity
Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce president Curtis Blair takes his role seriously as a steward of business vision and networking for the region. The first thing Blair did after being elected to his position in 2020 was begin a series of interviews with more than a dozen community pillars like Revere Health CEO Scott Barlow, Colliers International chairman Brandon Fugal, and Provo mayor Michelle Kaufusi.
"From the experience of interviewing CEOs, CMOs, directors, and managers has come wisdom that impressed me to assemble ten common themes, which I call 'Principles of Prosperity,'" Blair says. "I believe that these principles, if followed, will continue to build on big dreams, shape a dynamic business environment, and promote a skilled workforce in Utah County for generations to come."
The first principle Blair learned through his talks with business leaders was "Chop wood, carry water." It's a shortened version of a Zen Buddhist proverb that says, "Before enlightenment: chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment: chop wood, carry water."
The spirit of the proverb is to be intentional, consistent, and reliable. To do the hard work now and continue doing it despite whatever success or failure comes your way. In the face of adversity, what may seem routine and fundamental may be just the thing that leads to transformative opportunities for growth and prosperity.
About Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce
The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce has deep Utah roots, beginning with its founding as the Provo Chamber of Commerce in 1887. This chamber thrived as a business member network for nearly a century before merging with the Orem Chamber in 1987. Today, the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce serves and supports the entire Utah Valley through its work in policy, business, and community outreach. To join the Chamber or find out more about membership options, click here.
