The Sewickley Valley Chamber of Commerce is in a new era.
The chamber is looking to broaden and strengthen its network by reinventing itself as a hub for business growth and community success, according to its new board of directors.
“Local businesses now have a powerful new advocate with the re-launch of the Sewickley Valley Chamber of Commerce,” said executive director Erica Parr. “We are dedicated to fostering economic growth, supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening community connections.”
The current board recently released some ideas of its vision, which includes advocating for local businesses by representing them in policy discussions and economic development efforts.
“We invite all businesses and community leaders … together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous business environment for everyone,” said Mark Rengers, chamber president and owner of Mark Rengers Gallery.
The chamber hopes to facilitate more networking and growth by hosting industry-specific roundtables, business mixers and professional development events. It is striving to provide resources and support by offering training programs, mentorship opportunities and access to business funding sources, Parr said.
After a recent May meeting attended by Sewickley Mayor George Shannon, he said the chamber “has a vision for Sewickley.”
“They are a confident group of people and they are working diligently to add more members and that, in turn, will be better for everyone working, living in and visiting Sewickley,” Shannon said.
Members of the executive board — Parr, secretary Lindsay Williams, vice president Kim DeVos-Brooks, Rengers and treasurer Mike Cherock — talked after the meeting about the chamber’s potential.
The new board was formed earlier this year after term limits were reached under the old board, and there were a few resignations. The new board includes business owners that cover a wide range of industries, from retail to health and wellness to engineering. One of the chamber’s goals is to expand the membership to the boroughs that encompass the Sewickley area and beyond, Rengers said, by reaching out to all the retail shops as well as other industries and professionals in the area.
“I am one of the longer businesses and I know some of the history of Sewickley, which is why they wanted me here,” said Rengers, who has had his business in Sewickley since 1999. “We are also looking forward.”
A way to do that is through hosting a speaker series. They are still working out the details of potential speakers, he said. They’ve also had their website redesigned and want to host networking events and a membership meeting.
“We are also boots on the ground looking for new members and introducing ourselves to make connections,” Rengers said. “A strong chamber makes an area more vibrant. There are many benefits to networking, which helps businesses flourish.”
A good chamber is “a cheerleader for a town and it works to keep people excited about Sewickley,” said DeVos-Brooks, who owns Inca Brands Inc.
Cherock said the previous chamber functioned more as a retail association.
The chamber wants to broaden its vision, said Cherock, owner of AE Works Ltd.
“We want representatives from all businesses in Sewickley,” Chercok said. “It’s about evolving. We want to expand the reach and influence of the chamber.”
Maureen Staley, co-owner of The Picket Fence on Beaver Street, which carries baby items, home decor, gift items and clothing, said she doesn’t have as much experience with the previous chamber.
“I think the chamber in general is very supportive for businesses in the village,” Staley said. “Community events, social presence and building business relationships are their strongest elements. I have been very impressed so far. They really work towards a better business community. “
There was never a paid membership until, as written in the chamber’s new bylaws, members pay a fee. There are various tiers of membership starting at $250 and $150 annually for non-profits. There are currently 44 organizations and 65 members who belong.
Membership includes businesses of all sizes, Parr said. Part of her job and the other board members’ job is to strengthen ties and relationships within the community at large. They are working in conjunction with the borough and other community groups to maintain the charm of Sewickley, Parr said.
Parr said they’ve been focusing on not only engaging businesses but also residents, because that strengthens a chamber.
“There are a lot of cool people doing a lot of cool things in Sewickley,” Parr said. “They are passionate about where they live, work and shop and dine. We are open to fresh ideas. We want to keep building on the strong foundation here in Sewickley.”
She said they want to provide networking opportunities, advocacy, business development resources and collaborative partnerships.
“We believe all of the businesses in this area are the backbone of America,” she said.
