FAQ and Dues Schedule

What is a chamber of commerce?

A chamber of commerce is a business membership organization that works with its members and with other entities to build a strong community that attracts businesses, families and visitors. In other words, a chamber is a group of people working together.

A chamber of commerce is a private, non-profit organization funded by membership dues and income generated from special events and management contracts. It isnot a government agency; thus it receives no tax dollars.

A chamber has a 501 (c) (6) IRS classification.  The Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce also a foundation, which raises money for scholarships and other community causes, and has a 501 (c) (3) designation. Donations to the foundation are tax deductible. The money members and others donate funds scholarships for graduating seniors, a citizenship award at UW-Marinette, and scholarships for participants in the chamber's Community Leadership Academy.

A chamber's duties are varied. Chambers of commerce typically become involved in community and economic development efforts, organize special events that bring people together and attract visitors to the community, promote an area as a destination or a good place to locate a business, encourage residents to become involved in their community, help voters get the information they need to make smart choices, train future leaders, raise funds for good causes, build consensus and help solve community problems.

A good chamber of commerce is constantly evolving to meet the needs of its members, its community and the rapidly changing economy.

In early 2010, our chamber surveyed its members. As a result, we are redoubling our efforts in the areas of business development and training that impacts the financial vitality of area businesses.

Why should I join a chamber?

When you join a chamber, you invest in your community and you harness the power of people working together to create a stronger community where business like yours can flourish. Studies have shown that joining a chamber adds another level of credibility to your business.

Who is eligible?

"All businesses, public institutions, and individuals who are engaged in business in the Marinette/Menominee Area and who have an interest in the commercial, industrial, and civic progress of the Marinette/Menominee Area shall be eligible for membership in the Marinette/Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce."

Individuals may join for only $60 a year. That investment entitles them to most of the benefits enjoyed by business members, including an individual listing in our membership directory, which is published annually.

What does it cost for a business to join?

Here are our current rates:

Employees Base Rate
Individual $60
1-5 $250
6-10 $300
11-25 $600
26-100 $1,000
101-200 $2,000
201-300 $3,000
301-500 $4,000
500+ $4,000 (+ $1 for each employee over 500)

Contractors Using Builders Exchange: Additional $100

Banks & Financial Institutions: Additional $1000 + $100 per Branch (For the purposes of figuring out the dues schedule, two part-time employees equal one full time employee)

How do I apply for membership?

Download a copy of the application form. Fill it out and return it to the Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce's administrative office, 601 Marinette Ave., Marinette, WI 54143 along with your check for at least 25 percent of your dues investment amount.

Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive a packet of information so you can take full advantage of your chamber investment.