Member Testimonials
While there are many aspects I enjoy about being a small business owner, there are also challenges and low points, especially in the past year and a half. During those times it’s easy to feel isolated and lose inspiration and momentum. I’ve found the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber to be a vital ‘lifeline’ and system of support. Over the years they’ve connected me to other members that share similar values, many of who have become mentors and friends. Whenever I’ve reached out to the Chamber for help, they gladly share ideas, some of which have led to new opportunities in my business. As a graduate of Leadership Fredericksburg (Class of 2020), I also have a pool of individuals I know I can reach out to at any time. I’m grateful for the Chamber’s support and for helping me become more deeply rooted in a community that I value and love.
–Barbara Gustavson, Discover Next Step
Let me tell you, since joining the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, in late 2018 when my business just started, I can say they have been VITAL building the foundation in my business. They allowed me to plug in with the community I serve in with tons of opportunities to network & get connected. The whole staff is always flourishing with great vibes & have been a huge support to my business! (Ribbon cuttings, awards, interviews, and everything in between)
If you are a small business owner starting out and want to lay the foundation off right, I would strongly recommend joining so you can build genuine relationships that will grow! Well worth the investment!
–Jaime Garza, Ignite Cinemas
I can’t express how thankful I am to be a member of the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber, especially now. As a business owner in an unprecedented situation I have been overwhelmed with information from local, state and federal governments. The Chamber team has been extremely proactive with gathering and sharing information from SBA programs and the various levels of government. They have hosted zoom meetings with the Governor and our US Senators and House Representatives so businesses understand grants, loans, and operational restrictions. They have also been very active on social media, sharing operational updates and inspirational stories from local businesses and organizations. Having a trusted source like the Chamber has been critical during this unprecedented time. If you are a business owner and not involved in your local Chamber, you should consider. It is times like these where those relationships really pay off.
–Ginni Matern Mastin, Matern Staffing
The Fredericksburg City Public Schools’ symbiotic partnership with the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce dates back many years. Through our role as a standing member of the WorkForce Now subcommittee, our students and staff have benefited tremendously from the support The Chamber offers by assisting with career readiness, spotlighting career exploration and providing networking opportunities with our neighboring school divisions and business partners. We look forward to the annual Superintendent Forums that are hosted by The Chamber that provide an arena for superintendents to publicly discuss pertinent issues that are important to our local businesses and organizations. We appreciate the generosity of The Chamber members who support our newly established Fredericksburg Education Foundation which provides resources to meet the needs of our students and their families as well as our teachers and staff. The success of our schools and students is dependent on the continued financial support of our very generous community.
–Marci Catlett, Fredericksburg City Public Schools
When I established Capitalize Marketing, the first thing I did was join the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. I knew their reputation for serving the community and connecting businesses together. I have never regretted that decision.
The opportunities that I have to learn from and meet other business owners & professionals are unmatched. There are a plethora of networking groups in our community, but the Chamber wins hands-down.
My LeadShare has become a group of friends and a tremendous referral source. The ribbon cuttings allow me the opportunity to celebrate other business owners, and their after-hour events create a casual opportunity to get to know other Chamber members.
The Chamber staff are tremendous and are ready to answer questions that I might have. If you are a business owner or business professional in the Fredericksburg area, membership is essential.
–Gordon Duncan, Capitalize Marketing