by Aimee Herrera, JAX Chamber
If you’re a business owner in Jacksonville – or an aspiring entrepreneur – you’ve likely heard of JAX Chamber. And chances are, you’ve also likely wondered, “what even is a chamber?”
A chamber of commerce is a member-driven organization, focusing on a wide range of business advocacy initiatives, such as networking events, professional development workshops and public policy. By working closely with community institutions, they speak for the business community.
JAX Chamber represents Northeast Florida. Serving over 3,000 members, it actively supports Jacksonville’s local entrepreneurs, minority-owned businesses and downtown revitalization efforts with the shared goal of building a sustainable and accessible economy for Jacksonville. In 2012, JAX Chamber launched #BuyChamber, a cultural initiative that originally encouraged Chamber members to consider business first with other fellow members. Today, it furthers its efforts by encouraging the community to support local jobs in Jacksonville. JAX Chamber often collaborates with city-wide initiatives to reach these goals – 904 Day being a leading initiative.
A beloved holiday for Duval residents, September 4 (9.04), is a community-based campaign that celebrates Northeast Florida’s residents, organizations, corporations, and small businesses. While “Shop Local” makes for a great bumper sticker, the slogan also unites civic engagement with economic development, a crossover that aligns closely with the purpose of JAX Chamber. Supporting local businesses reinvests profits locally – creating more jobs, diversifying products and services, and reducing carbon footprint, all while supporting entrepreneurship – supporting someone’s dream. The initiative not only has a positive impact economically, but socially as well. Residents from across Jacksonville present their city pride by engaging with local creators, vendors and performers.
904 Day inspires our community. The annual celebration champions “all things local,” across every neighborhood, every bridge and every business. This 904 Day, JAX Chamber encourages residents to be a tourist in their own city by exploring galleries, visiting neighborhood cafés and shopping at local boutiques. Visit the JAX Chamber Member Directory online to view locally owned Chamber members. For those interested in joining the business community, the JAX Chamber website is a reputable resource to learn how to get started. #ilovejax