Mission of Chamber: to facilitate business growth and community involvement Across the US you’ll find local chamber volunteers working toward making positive change happen in their communities.
Raeford Hoke Chamber of Commerce Expo will take place Saturday, May 14. Local businesses can utilize this event as an opportunity to advertise employment or distribute informational materials.
Membership
Chamber members are businesspeople who seek to foster economic development within a region. They meet regularly with government officials in their area in order to discuss and attempt to shape policies which affect them and the local community, as well as being an information resource about businesses and events taking place nearby. They form the backbone of thousands of local chambers of commerce throughout America.
Hoke County was created from portions of Cumberland and Robeson Counties in 1911, its principal city being Raeford and it being home to Fort Bragg Military Base as well as numerous small towns and medium sized settlements.
Brad Calloway is the third-generation family owner and operator of Raeford Hardware on Oakwood Avenue in downtown Raeford. Originally opened by his grandfather and father in 1973, with him taking over ownership in 2012. Since then he has expanded and renovated while keeping an authentic local feel to the store.
Kurt Posey moved from Florida eleven years ago, and has quickly become active in Raeford’s community since. He is currently involved with Kiwanis and Fall Festival Board membership as well as being on the chamber of commerce board and county budget committee, Hoke County Economic Development Authority board membership and serving on their budget committee as an active board member – not to mention being an attorney partner with Willcox McFadyen Fields Sutherland firm in Raeford!
Events
A chamber of commerce offers events to its members to support and advance them, facilitate networking opportunities and establish new business connections. Events hosted by chambers may include speaker series focusing on local knowledge or notable people; procurement/trade shows to create business opportunities within their community; seasonal festivals/markets where members can showcase their products; etc.
Networking and luncheon events are popular chamber events, usually featuring speakers who address timely topics as well as new members being introduced to each other. Furthermore, these events provide cost-effective sponsorship and advertising opportunities. Finally, a quarterly policy luncheon provides opportunities to discuss global public policy issues impacting business environments.
The Economic Outlook Dinner is an annual tradition hosted by the Chamber and attended by hundreds of chamber members and local business leaders from throughout Bronx borough. Hosted by the chamber as a fundraiser for its borough economic development programs, this event raises critical funds while uniting communities together around celebrating Bronx ingenuity.
The Chamber’s Annual Gala is its signature event of the year and takes place each December. This festive evening features golf on one of its member courses, dinner and an awards ceremony to recognize excellence among chamber members. In addition, there are special events hosted throughout the year such as Chairman’s Galas.
Economic Outlook Dinner
The Economic Outlook Dinner is an annual event hosted by University of Georgia economists that gives business leaders access to insights and research from these academic experts. Attendees also enjoy networking opportunities, meal, keynote speaker and Q&A session during this special evening event.
Due to Russia’s war in Ukraine, cost-of-living crises, tightening financial conditions and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, global economies are currently experiencing a noticeable slowdown. All of these factors have combined to contribute to an unimpressive start for 2023.
Job seekers and local businesses can meet at the Raeford-Hoke Chamber of Commerce Expo, which was put on pause due to pandemic concerns but will resume later this month. Local companies may set up booths offering employment opportunities or providing information. Members are free; nonmembers pay $25.
Business Expo
Business Expos are an ideal platform for businesses to showcase their products and services to potential clients, while meeting other local business owners and gaining new ideas from them. Before attending a Business Expo it is wise to do your research first – find an adequate venue which meets ADA compliance and has sufficient restrooms as this will increase attendance at your event.
The Expo is free for attendees and features an Executive Luncheon featuring high-profile speakers. In addition, there will be seminars and workshops offered, such as marketing to Hispanic Markets, Business Matchmaking Sessions, and Federal Procurement.
GWHCC not only hosts seminars and workshops, but they also hold an annual business pitch competition where applicants have an opportunity to present their business concepts before a live audience and panel of judges. Winners receive prizes valued at $500, $400 and $300! Their Business Expo provides attendees with an excellent way to meet potential customers, suppliers, partners, network with fellow business owners and form lasting relationships.
