Manhattan Chamber of Commerce
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Formation | July 1920 |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1920 |
| Focus | Advocating for NYC’s Businesses. Shaping Tomorrow’s Economy. |
| Headquarters | 575 Fifth Avenue, 14th Floor; New York, NY 10017 |
Region served | Manhattan borough of New York City, New York |
President and CEO | Jessica Walker |
| Website | https://www.manhattancc.org/ |
The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that represents and supports the 125,000+ local businesses across the borough of Manhattan in New York City. Collectively, these businesses employ 2.4 million people and generate $939 billion in annual GDP.[1]
The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce was established in July 1920 as the Yorkville Chamber of Commerce.[1] It was founded by 11 prominent merchants in the Yorkville neighborhood of Manhattan's Upper East Side, which at the time was inhabited predominantly by German-born immigrants. Their mission was “to foster and improve the trade and commerce of Yorkville…and to promote the prosperity and general welfare thereof".[1] This was particularly important in the wake of World War I, when a wave of anti-German sentiment had spread throughout the United States. Over the decades, the Chamber expanded to encompass Mid-East Manhattan, then Mid-Manhattan and finally, the entire borough of Manhattan.[1]
Mission
The Chamber's core mission is to ignite growth, champion innovation, and advocate tirelessly for the interests of Manhattan's diverse business community.[1] They do this through:
- Advocacy and Political Influence: The organization advocates for policies that support businesses in New York City. It works with elected officials and policymakers to influence legislation and regulations, with the goal of creating a favorable economic environment for Manhattan businesses.
- Networking and Connections: The organization offers various networking events, councils, and opportunities for members to connect. These events are designed to help business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators form partnerships and collaborate on projects.
- Business Resources: The organization provides a range of resources for its members, including educational workshops and business development programs. It also offers market insights and discounts to assist businesses with growth and operational challenges.
- Community and Economic Development: In addition to its member services, the organization is involved in the economic development of Manhattan. It supports initiatives that aim to attract investment, create jobs, and enhance the borough's economic competitiveness.[1]
The Chamber also has two 501(c)3 nonprofit arms. Its foundation provides resources, education, and other programming to the business community. Its community benefit fund hosts two of the oldest and largest street fairs in the city with the proceeds allowing the Chamber to distribute emergency grants to small businesses.[2]
Leadership
The current President and CEO is Jessica Walker, who took the helm in February 2016.[3] She sits on the Board of Directors of the Javits Center,[4] Pursuit Lending,[5] and United Neighborhood Houses.[6] She is also an appointed member of the New York State Governor's Regional Economic Development Council for New York City.[7]
The Chamber's Board Chairman is Don Winter, the founder and CEO of Encompass Media Group and the former publisher of Resident Magazine.