

As 2011 unfolds, you are already experiencing a more aggressive and focused Chamber of Commerce. The membership is responding handsomely to that mode.
The membership roles reflect a varied and committed investor. We are increasingly attracting a cadre of new members who are returning to Lafayette after moving away for a period of time. These savvy new business owners have confidence in the local economy and believe that membership with the Chamber is a part of the formula for success.
In order to optimize the organization’s resources, the leadership has narrowed the scope of work to four divisions: Public Policy, Innovation, Education and Operational Excellence.
Even while sharpening the focus, the Chamber is applying for its fourth accreditation through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. This will solidify its standing as a top tier Chamber in terms of effectiveness and relevancy.
Simultaneously, the organization is entering the Chamber of the Year competition through the American Chamber of Commerce Executives Association. It is my opinion that our Chamber is competitive because of such noteworthy initiatives as last year’s Rally for Economic Survival, the establishment of EMPOWER-PAC, the regionalism outreach and the remodeling of the office building.
You have recently elected a new board of directors that reflect the composition of the diverse sectors of the local economy. That talent, combined with experienced staff, is ensuring that your Chamber remains a high-performance investment.
I urge you to convey your thoughts on how the Chamber can better advocate what is possible for a winning community.
Sincerely,
Rob Guidry
President/CEO
Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce
Here’s what some members have to say about the Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce:THE CHAMBER IS “IN BUSINESS FOR BUSINESS”

Businesses benefit from a Chamber affiliation in many ways, both tangible and intangible. The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce continually assesses and responds to investor needs with relevant, value-added programs and initiatives. These are designed to strengthen businesses in the greater Lafayette region and position those businesses for continued growth.
- Networking opportunities are plentiful throughout the Chamber. Several events bring members together for the personal interaction that’s crucial to doing business.
- Adequate, affordable health coverage is among the most challenging issues facing businesses. The Chamber’s Limited Benefit Medical Insurance program provides a solution that enables members to offer the same benefits to a large group of employees, regardless of company size.
- The Member2Member program provides members with discounts on a wide range of goods and services. Exclusive to the Chamber, these offers enable members to showcase their own products, as well as save money when purchasing products from fellow members.
- The Office Depot Affinity program is the newest value-added benefit for members. It allows members to save 15 to 25 percent on their total annual expenditures for office supplies. With this program, Chamber member companies, whether big or small, can enjoy the benefits of corporate pricing.
- Sharing timely information among members and the community at large is essential in nurturing the business environment. The Chamber utilizes several communication channels for this purpose, including a printed publication, an electronic newsletter delivered via email, the website lafchamber.org and the use of social media outlets: Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
- Chamber-sponsored ribbon cuttings bring attention and a bit of fanfare to a business celebrating its opening, a new location or other milestone.
- Several annually set committees and task forces work to help the Chamber achieve strategic goals, set annually. Far-reaching initiatives address issues such as infrastructure, technology, transportation, regional partnerships and similar concerns that affect our business and living environment.
The philosophy of being in business for business is at the core of everything the Chamber undertakes. As business needs change, the Chamber’s efforts evolve to provide benefits that give members a rewarding return on their investment.