FAQ

What exactly does the Chamber do?
We help businesses and organizations connect, grow, and thrive in Ontario County and the Finger Lakes. That means hosting networking events, offering professional development, advocating for business-friendly policies, promoting our members, and creating opportunities for collaboration. If you want to do business in Ontario County, we’re here to help.

Do I have to be a business in Ontario County to join ONChamber?
Nope! If you want to do business in Ontario County, you should join the Ontario County Chamber. Many of our members are based in nearby counties — from Monroe and Seneca to Yates and Wayne — because they value the relationships, resources, and regional exposure we offer.

Can I be a member of more than one organization, like a Chamber, Downtown Merchants Association, or Visitors Bureau?
Absolutely. We encourage it! Each organization has a different mission, focus, and audience. Together, we help build a strong, connected community. Your Chamber membership complements the work of other local groups and gives you access to countywide and regional opportunities.

How is a Chamber different from a Downtown Merchants Association, BID, or Tourism Promotion Agency?
Good question — and we get this a lot. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Chambers of Commerce (like us!) are independent, membership-based organizations for businesses of all kinds. We offer networking, professional development, marketing opportunities, advocacy, and resources to help you grow.

• Downtown Merchants Associations are typically hyper-local, representing businesses in a specific downtown area.

• Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are government-authorized zones where property owners pay an additional fee for district improvements. A couple in our county are the Geneva Downtown Business Improvement District and the Historic Downtown Canandaigua Business Improvement District.

• Tourism Promotion Agencies (like Visit Finger Lakes) focus on bringing visitors to an area, funded mostly by hotel room taxes, not membership dues.

We’re all part of the same big picture — and we love working together!

What kinds of businesses join ONChamber?
All kinds. From one-person startups to Fortune 500 companies. Retail shops, manufacturers, banks, wineries, nonprofits, and everything in between. If you’re invested in seeing Ontario County’s economy thrive — you belong here.

What’s included with membership?
Lots! From networking mixers and leadership programs to marketing perks like Member Milestone Mondays and free Megaphone ads. Members also get exclusive discounts, free job postings, access to small business resources like SCORE and the SBDC, and more. See the full list of benefits here.

How much does it cost to join?
Membership is based on your number of employees (full-time equivalent). Sole proprietors start at just $340 a year — less than $1 a day. See our Membership Rates here.

I’m not a business owner, can I still get involved?
Definitely. Many of our events are open to the public, and we offer volunteer opportunities on committees and at community events. It’s a great way to meet people, make connections, and be part of what makes Ontario County special.

Still have questions?
Reach out! Give us a call at 585.394.4400 or email info@onchamber.com. We’d love to connect.