The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is federation of businesses and business organizations coordinated at local, state, regional, and national levels. A voluntary organization, its goal is to promote business interests. At each level, Chamber members typically include corporate, civic, and small-business owners.
The Chamber of Commerce grew out of a 1912 presidential commission review of the federal budgeting process. President William Howard Taft, in the first issue of Nation’s Business, the official publication of the Chamber of Commerce, stated the need to “set forth periodically affirmative information and thought regarding our progress as a nation.” Taft also cited the need for a single entity through which American businesses and government could deal with each other on a national level.
The most broadly represented business association in Washington, the Chamber of Commerce is an important voice in political, regulatory, and civil affairs affecting business. It has numerous committees that analyze and initiate policy positions in areas ranging from antitrust law to taxation. The Chamber influences legislation through congressional testimony, lobbying, and the grassroots efforts of local and state chambers. One of its more effective mechanisms is its “action call,” a memorandum outlining its position on an issue and urging members to contact their representatives.
During the 2000 election, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce spent $21 million supporting pro-business candidates. In the same year, it advocated normal trade relations with China and pressured Congress for regulatory relief for small businesses. In 1999 Chamber president Tom Donohue led a U.S. business mission to Cuba.
Local chambers of commerce provide members with information about business issues, resources, and opportunities to meet other businesspeople in their areas. The Chamber of Commerce is an important source of business information ranging from employee issues to taxes and money management. In many U.S. communities, the local chamber’s “After Hours” receptions are an important chance for networking, exchanging ideas, and building relationships.