Networking opportunities are available via the numerous programs, seminars and large events hosted by the Chamber throughout the year. Chamber programming is designed to be interesting, affordable, effective and relevant to today’s ever-changing business world. To facilitate the Networking process, we have no assigned seating at our banquets so you can network with new people each time! And please remember, Programs and Annual Events, as with all Chamber meetings, are open to all employees of member businesses.

Business After Hours
Themed Chamber mixers are offered regularly at Chamber member businesses from office and hotel locations to restaurants and local parks. These informal after work gatherings for members, not-yet-members and guests offer the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, make referrals and have a little fun! Interested in hosting or sponsoring an upcoming BAH program, e-mail Nancie.

Southern Connecticut Business Showcase: A Business to Business Trade Show
The year 2005 will mark the 12th Anniversary of Business Showcase, the State’s Largest Collaborative Trade Show brought to you by 8 area Chambers of Commerce serving 13 communities. Join hundreds of other business exhibitors who showcase their products or services to thousands of key decision-makers, buyers and business leaders in May of each year. Themed Business at the Speed of Life, this is a place to showcase yourself and network with other companies in many different fields. For attendees there are FREE Seminars, the SBA B2B Matchmaker Program and of course plenty of FREE Parking! The Showcase kicks off with a keynote speaker at 8:30 am and concludes with the Chamber Combo Business after Hours featuring a Taste of the Showcase.  Please visit our website at www.biz-showcase.com or e-mail us for more information.

Leadership Greater Valley
Leadership Greater Valley is a eight-week program held annually in the fall designed to more fully develop our region’s leadership potential. Building on a program format, which has proven successful in many Connecticut Communities, the program has the following objectives: 1) Seek out potential community leaders and help prepare them for positions of community responsibility; 2) Acquaint participants with Valley life in all its many and varied dimensions; 3) Educate and counsel participants concerning the skills essential for effective community service; 4) Encourage program graduates to seek leadership roles in key community service positions; and 5) Further develop individuals for leadership roles within their companies. Held at various locations throughout the Valley, each class features interactive discussions led by community leaders representing business, government and human services. Contact Nancie for more information. Leadership Greater Valley is presented by the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Valley Council of Health & Human Service Organizations and the Valley United Way.

Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is open to everyone! At this event the Chamber features a recognized business, community or political leader speaking on a topic of current interest. These speakers have included James S. McInerney, Former Chairman of Aquarion Water Company; James Smith, Chairman & CEO of Webster Bank; Anthony Vallillo, President and COO of United Illuminating, Congressman Christopher Shays and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. In addition, we recognize the movers and shakers, including new company presidents, Top Employers, and special community initiatives in the Greater Valley area with our Breakfast Club Salutes. For more information contact Nancie.

Business Education Series
Whether you want to learn how to market your business, tap into new sources of funding or get the latest scoop on trends in employment law, the Chamber is here to guide and inform you. The Chamber along with a variety of volunteers produce state-of-the-art, cost-effective educational opportunities that: share the knowledge and experience of Chamber member business leaders, give our members the tools to construct real world solutions and create a stronger business community and visionary leaders. Send Nancie an e-mail for more information.

The Chamber also offers Business Connections…giving your business the opportunity to get plugged in. This Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce program gives your company the opportunity to give an educational seminar program that will be marketed to over 1500 members, prospective members, dignitaries and friends.  Contact Laura (laura@greatervalleychamber.com)  for more information

The Greater Valley Human Resource Forum

Monthly meeting, sponsored by The Schegg Group, for area Human Resource Managers and their Associates as well as other invited guests. Meeting features a speaker on current HR trends. Contact Antoinette (amurray@schegggroup.com) for information. 

Annual Golf Classic
Held the second Monday in June, this tournament offers our members the opportunity to network, entertain clients and, of course, spend time on the golf course! The afternoon flight is limited to 128 golfers, respectively, playing 18-holes in a scramble format. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams (gross and net), the longest drive, closest to the pin and closest to the line. Lunch and dinner are provided for all participants. Registration forms and more information are available by contacting Al.

Annual Dinner
Our most popular event, the Chamber’s Annual Dinner Meeting attracts over 350 members and guests each year and features nationally recognized keynote speakers. Recent speakers include: Robert Kennedy, Jr., Stuart Varney, Don Peppers, Norm Bozzio, Ira Blumenthal, CW Metcalf, Wade Dokken, Heather Shea-Shultz, and Bill Melberg. For sponsorship or other information, contact Nancie.


Other programs offered throughout the year include:

• Gold Seal Awards recognize business leaders who exemplify the spirit of selflessness and volunteerism. Established in 1971, the Gold Seal has become the most prestigious and time-honored community service award in the Valley.
• Holiday Party - our second most popular event drawing over 200 members and guests annually. Admission proceeds are donated annually to two different area non-profit agencies.
• Legislative Forums - The Chamber plans gatherings with area legislators and government officials to discuss issues relevant to your business. As your business advocate, we want to know about local, state and federal issues that are important to you.

For a full list of all of our upcoming meetings or events…including new programs like the State of our Cities & Towns aka Town Tour, Quarterly OSHA Training Forums and the Who’s Who in the Valley Tour, click here to visit our online calendar of events.

Please Note: Reservations are required for all events, along with payment in advance (we will not invoice). RSVP via our on-line calendar of events. All cancellations must be made 24 hours prior to any event or you will be billed. Program and meeting cancellations or delays can be heard on WPLR 99.1 FM; WICC 600 AM; and STAR 99.9 FM.