As cities continue to grow and develop, the role of the Chamber of Commerce becomes increasingly essential. It serves as a practical tool for businesses of all sizes but also represents the ideals that buoy a city to greatness. In the case of the greater Washington area, the Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in promoting small businesses and fostering a sense of community among its members. With monumental growth both commercially and residentially, the city has a bright future ahead. And there’s even more on the horizon for this thriving city.
Ed Tracey, President / CEO of The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce, agreed to sit down with us and is willing to talk about what’s on the horizon and what he’s most proud of—this wonderful city. Three years ago, Ed had to reorganize from ground zero after being shut down for ten years due to a lack of leadership. From this start, he grew the Washington Area Chamber to over 200 members in under three years, and this is only the start; it’s anticipated that the Washington Area Chamber will double in size in the next year and a half.
In a quote from Ed, “The Washington Area Chamber covers Washington City and surrounding areas. We are known as “The champion for small business in southern Utah,” helping small businesses grow and succeed. Washington City was named “#1 City in America to open a small business” by WalletHub 2 years in a row.”
And it’s easy to see why. The city has experienced monumental commercial and residential growth, with many projects on the horizon. The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce works in partnership with businesses in Washington City and outlying communities to find ways to improve the neighborhood’s economic, civic, and cultural well-being.
“As cities expand, the Chamber of Commerce plays an increasingly vital role. It serves as a practical resource for businesses of all sizes and embodies the values that propel a city toward greatness. In the greater Washington area, the Chamber of Commerce has been pivotal in supporting small businesses and fostering community spirit.
With rapid growth in both commercial and residential sectors, the city looks ahead to a promising future.
Ed Tracey, President / CEO of The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce, shared insights on the city’s trajectory and achievements. Despite facing initial challenges, including a decade of dormancy due to leadership issues, Ed revitalized the Chamber, growing its membership to over 200 in less than three years—with plans to double in size within the next eighteen months.
According to Ed, ‘The Washington Area Chamber advocates for small businesses across Washington City and its environs, earning recognition as the “champion for small business in southern Utah.” WalletHub has named Washington City the “#1 City in America to open a small business” for two consecutive years.'”
Businesses are so engaged in the community and with each other. But what is that element that ties community together with business? As Ed worded it, what’s the “secret sauce”? Ed had this to share.
“We are extremely proactive in promoting our member businesses. Many small companies need help finding ways to pay for marketing and promotion. The Chamber helps businesses through promotions and marketing on social media, newsletters, and community events.
More than anything, we make doing business in Washington FUN! Our chamber members love to attend our monthly meetings. We offer great monthly networking opportunities to meet with other business leaders in the community.”
And the Chamber has committed to and reinforced these factors that help foster a community. They have speakers who address timely and important subjects like growth, crime statistics, and other subjects that affect business.
And provide training for small businesses through our members, tourists, visitor information, business expos, job fairs, festivals, and more. The Greater Washington area is lucky to have such a tremendous resource for business, and Ed Tracey is here to do what he can to help Southern Utah.
(435) 879-3515
washingtonutchamber.com
