City: Chicago, IL

Category: Relocation

Description: A growing number of smaller chambers of commerce have taken root around town and provide more personalized and direct service for their communities. Their existence tends to indicate that the particular area has a cohesive agenda and welcoming attitude. They often host neighborhood festivals throughout the year, fund-raising events, farmers’ markets, and tours. They also may provide coupon booklets or area guides that highlight their members. Of course, while it’s encouraging to see area businesses participating in their chamber, the fact that some retailers, restaurants, bars, and attractions choose to abstain from membership should not be taken as a negative; there may be all kinds of reasons for joining or not joining. Some of the city’s local chambers of commerce are listed within the “Neighborhoods at a Glance” in the “Area Overview” chapter of this book.