FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to protect and improve the business climate and quality of life within a specific region. Although Chambers often work with large public agencies, they are not departments of any government organization.

In August of 1929, the Willmar Commercial Club reorganized and became the Willmar Chamber of Commerce. It became incorporated in 1932 with H.B. Lidstone becoming its first full-time manager. In 1959 the Chamber purchased the building on Litchfield Ave. In 1985 the name was changed to Willmar Area Chamber of Commerce and in 2002, became the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Willmar Lakes Area Chamber offers its membership various networking opportunities with peers, government officials and business leaders. Members receive timely, relevant information so that they may be kept informed; professional development workshops and seminars so that they may gain valuable knowledge and skills to help them succeed; and policy and communications expertise to assist them in advocating their positions and business interests.

Anyone can be a member! Most Chamber members are businesses, but we also have retired individuals and solo entrepreneurs who choose to join.

Some Chamber events are limited to members only. However, non-members can attend certain ticket events at a premium price. The Chamber also hosts a number of events that are free and open to the public.