Melbourne, FL [June 7, 2020] –The United States Chamber of Commerce, at its board meeting last week, awarded the Melbourne Regional Chamber with 5-Star Accreditation once again for its sound policies and organizational procedures, effective advocacy efforts, valuable programming, and positive impact on the Space Coast region.
Of the 7,000 chambers of commerce across the United States, only 128 are currently accredited at the 5-Star level, placing the Melbourne Regional Chamber among an elite 1%. It was first accredited in 1985 and achieved 5-Star status in 2005.
“Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit its local economy and positively influence its community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Vice President of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise.”
Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. To receive Accreditation, a chamber must complete a rigorous accreditation application which tests competency in nine modules: benchmarking, communications, facilities, finance, governance, government affairs, human resources, program development, and technology. This extensive self-review can take several months to complete.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our incredible team,” said Michael Ayers, President & CEO of the Melbourne Regional Chamber. “This recognition is a true testament to the relentless dedication to our members and the Space Coast community. It also demonstrates the Melbourne Regional Chamber’s impact on the region and how hard it works to help the business community grow and thrive daily.”
“Earning the highest, 5-Star Accreditation is validation from the U.S. Chamber that the organization serves as the voice of business in the Space Coast region and is a bold leader that advocates for important issues, and continually drives change and economic growth,” said Todd J. Pokrywa, Melbourne Regional Chamber Board Chair and President of The Viera Company. “It’s gratifying to be recognized nationally from among our peers as one of the best, and I am confident that we will maintain our high level of performance over the next five years.”
Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members. Once accredited, a chamber must go through a complete re-accreditation review every five years.
The Melbourne Regional Chamber, founded in 1925, represents 1,200-plus organizations in Central Florida. It develops and promotes the business interests of its members through representation, advocacy, education, and support, while contributing to the growth and prosperity of a vibrant business community. For more information, visit www.melbourneregionalchamber.com.
