“The Chamber is developing a roadmap, aligning us with Fayette County’s business needs, community development, operational efficiency, and strategic growth. With significant programmatic adjustments to maximize member value, we expect increased membership growth and retention. We will support our members with targeted resources, enhanced workforce development, and promotion of an inclusive business community that meets our community’s needs.”-Leonardo McClarty, Fayette Chamber President and CEO
I must confess that I have been a long-time Chamber of Commerce supporter. When I lived near Baldwin County, I volunteered to run that Chamber until they found a new CEO. And I really enjoyed it.
I have also been involved with the Chambers through SCORE, a non-profit organization separate from but affiliated with the federal Small Business Administration. I have met with the head of the Georgia Chamber about SCORE. And used the offices of the Henry, Rockdale and Fayette Chambers to meet with and mentor small businesses. I also gave presentations on Business Development, Planning and Marketing at the Rockdale location.
The Fayette Chamber is the primary voice of and advocate for our business community. The Chamber links our local businesses, promoting their growth and long-term success. It serves as a dynamic catalyst to encourage business excellence and innovation. These efforts result in improved business profitability… and ultimately a stronger Fayette County community via increased services, jobs and taxes.
The Fayette County Chamber offers many fine services-
*Business Power Hour (formerly B2B Breakfast)
*ENGAGE, including Network at Noon and Business After Hours
*Member Promotions, including Find it In Fayette & Winning Wednesdays
*Councils & Committees, including Women’s, Manufacturing, Non-Profit subgroups
The Chamber also offers numerous programs and activities. For example, educational “Summits” include- Business Outlook /Economic Development, Workforce Development, Small Business Support, Business Growth Essentials. It also has special events such as- Business on the Green, the Cornhole Tournament and…starting this year… Pickle Ball. The Chamber’s 2024 Policy & Pancakes Breakfast drew our Fayette County General Assembly members. Plus, a 2024 summer luncheon with Senator Jon Ossoff and Congressman Drew Ferguson was a particularly well-attended event.
I have been especially impressed with the local Fayette Chamber’s new leadership. Leonardo McClarty is their President/CEO. Born and raised in the south Atlanta metro area, he knows the needs of our community. He is also very highly experienced, having been the CEO of several other Chambers, including DeKalb County. His initiatives have doubled membership and improved organizational profitability. Plus, major events and conferences have experienced increased attendance. The Fayette Chamber and Fayette County is fortunate to have him leading us into an even brighter economic future.
In our county, many of our best-known businesses are active Chamber members. Among the better known “Chairman Investors” are Panasonic, AT&T, Xfinity, EMC, State Farm, Cooper Lighting, Kaiser Permanente, Rinnai, and numerous local financial establishments.
It is to our mutual benefit to encourage each of our local businesses to join the Chamber and actively participate. I cannot over emphasize the benefits of networking with other business leaders. Stay updated on the Fayette Chamber’s plans and programs by visiting www.fayettechamber.org or following us on social media.
