It is the goal for the Chamber to act as a resource for its members to address challenges and seize opportunities. The Chamber of Commerce is typically the first point of contact for new businesses and individuals considering relocating to the Gravette area. We are essentially the “face of Gravette”. Furthermore, it is important to be represented in the Northwest Arkansas region to increase awareness as to what our city offers. By doing so the Chamber helps foster economic development opportunities, leadership, and local workforce development. Lastly, the GGCC helps to create and facilitate relationships between new and existing business by hosting informative meetings for local business owners to gather and exchange ideas, discuss important regional issues, and plan for future development. It is only with the support of our local businesses that the Chamber is able to continue to develop as a vital resource for our membership and local economy.
Our current officers (and their respective titles) are:
Ryan Watford (President)
Bryan Johnson (Vice President)
Brenda Yates (Treasurer)
Lindsey Scott (Secretary)
Patrick Hall (Executive Director)
Officers for 2010 will remain unchanged with the exception of Brenda Yates as Treasurer, who has resigned the position. We are currently reviewing potential candidates but have yet to come to a final decision on a replacement. The 2010 Banquet specifics have yet to be determined. During the banquet for 2009 hosted by the Chamber, we had less than 10 businesses/individuals attend the event. Concordantly, given that the city council cut off all funding to the Chamber matched with the loss of business due to the present economic climate, our ability to host some events have been somewhat hampered. However, that is not say that we won't have a banquet just that it may be slightly smaller of event then typical!
Nevertheless, we would love to hear about what our local businesses are doing well! Some of the events the chamber sponsors include Business Before Hours, the Economic Development Committee, Gravette Day, as well as the annual Gravette Day and Christmas Parades.
President - Gravette Chamber of Commerce
Assistant Vice President - Bank of Gravett, Centerton Branch
Visit GGCC online at www.gravettearkansas.com.