FAQs

What is the Arlington Chamber of Commerce?
The Arlington Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6 voluntary membership organization of more than 700 businesses whose goal is to strengthen the business and economic environment for those who work, live, and do business in Arlington. Businesses and nonprofits primarily join the Chamber for networking and business development, community engagement, educational opportunities, marketing, and to influence the voice of the business community through government affairs and advocacy. The Chamber’s efforts are focused on business-to-business and business-to-community opportunities. We host more than 100 events a year, connect business leaders to the community through our various committees, and more.

Does the Chamber have a monthly meeting? 
We know your time is precious; therefore there are no monthly meetings. However, there are a number of monthly networking events we encourage members and non-members to attend in order to mingle with fellow professionals and build solid business contacts. Visit our calendar of events to view the Chamber’s many events and programs.
 
I’m a nonprofit organization. Will I benefit from joining the Chamber?
Yes! The Chamber values our nonprofit members, which are an integral and defining component of our community. Nonprofits join the Chamber for a variety of reasons and consider the Chamber to be their avenue to the local business community. Your Chamber affiliation can help you  secure donations, source volunteers, find Board members and promote your cause and good work. The Chamber’s Community Action Committee is especially focused on the relationship between the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.

How does the Chamber involve young professionals? Are there any specific programs geared toward early-career members? 
Nobody values young professionals more than the Arlington Chamber. Instead of segmenting our young professionals, we take steps to ensure that they are fully integrated across all levels of the Chamber and its activities. Young professionals serve as Board members and Committee Chairs, and their contributions and perspectives are felt  throughout the organization. The Chamber aims to serve all generations, and we’re grateful for everyone’s involvement.

What does it cost to become a member? 
The Chamber works hard to keep membership dues low and affordable for all types of businesses. Therefore, membership dues vary based on the size of business and industry. Our Membership page outlines our tiered dues structure. The best way to find out membership rates for your business is to contact our Senior Director of Membership. There are also options for monthly debit payment, for those interested in paying their membership dues in smaller increments.
 
I’m looking to start a business in Arlington. How can the Chamber help?
While the Chamber offers many benefits to member businesses, we do not offer tools to start a business. We recommend starting with BizLaunch, Arlington’s small business and entrepreneurial assistance network. Below are a few excellent resources for businesses looking to form:
 
Business Librarian, Arlington Public library
SCORE Business Mentors
US Small Business Administration Washington Metropolitan District Office
Arlington’s BizTeam (assists with buildout/signage/regulations)

Where can I find information about sites and attractions and visiting Arlington? 
The Chamber is a rich source for hotel and restaurant referrals, and the Chamber staff is happy to help you find answers to your questions. The best place to find information on what to see and do when you’re in Arlington is the Arlington Convention and Visitors Service. Visit its website at www.StayArlington.com or call 1 (800) 296-7996.
 
If I have a complaint about an Arlington business, should I send it to the Chamber? 
​No, the Chamber does not process complaints. Complaints should be directed to the Better Business Bureau that serves our area, the BBB of Metro Washington. It can be reached at (202) 393-8000 or by email. You can also file a complaint online by visiting the Better Business Bureau website.

I am not a member of the Arlington Chamber. Can I attend Chamber events?
The Chamber welcomes area businesses to connect with our members and attend events to see all that the Chamber has to offer. Prospective members may register to attend up to three (3) Chamber networking events (Breakfast Connection, Business After Business, and Small Business Roundtable) in a calendar year as a guest before joining the Chamber. The Chamber reserves the right to deny admittance to the event if a non-member has already attended three events. Please contact Mike Rosenow at membership@arlingtonchamber.org with any questions or to join the Chamber. 

​How do I know if my organization is already a member of the Chamber?
To see if your organization is already a member, search our business directory. Membership is company-wide, meaning if your company is a member, you are also a member.

Is your question not answered above? Email the Chamber or call us at (703) 525-2400.