Networking
More than just a "get-together," the Chamber’s networking events create an effective environment that fosters collaboration and business growth. In addition to board members, the Chamber's Ambassadors are available at every event and dedicated to helping members connect. This committee of volunteers helps introduce members to each other and coaches them on how to make the most of their networking experience. The Chamber also recognizes that diversity in networking opportunities is key. As a result, the Chamber provides a number of ways to connect, including:
Business After Business (BABs)
Membership Luncheons
Power Networking Breakfasts
Premier Events
Young Professionals Network Mixers
Business After Business (BABs)
Held eight to 10
times per year
at a member
location, BABs
are the
Chamber's
networking
cornerstone with
an average of
100 members
attending. Food
and fun are the
focus, with a
monthly cash
drawing for
members in good
standing.
Membership Luncheon
Held five times
each year, the
member luncheons
offer an hour of
networking
opportunities
followed by an
educational
presentation.
The annual
luncheons topics
are:
- State of the County
- The State of the
County address by
the Howard County
Executive has been
hosted by the Howard
County Chamber of
Commerce for the
past 17 years. Held
in the beginning of
the year, the County
Executive recaps the
prior year’s
successes and
challenges and
unveils a roadmap
for the upcoming
year.
- Annual Meeting
-
At this luncheon,
the Chamber unveils
the annual report
and welcomes new
board members. Past
presenters have
included, regional
business leaders,
motivational
speakers and local
media
representatives.
- Special Topics
- Two additional luncheons each year feature speakers on various timely topics.
Power Networking Breakfast
Held in December,
the Chamber's Power
Networking Breakfast
gives each attendee
the opportunity to
pitch their goods
and services for a
few minutes to a
breakfast crowd that
often exceeds 60
attendees. At the
close of each
presentation,
speaker business
cards are delivered
to all interested,
potential customers
in attendance.
Premier Events
-
Chamber Cup Classic
-
Presented by PNC
Bank and held in
early spring, the
Chamber Cup Classic
golf outing offers a
relaxing day on the
greens followed by
cocktails and
dinner. Networking
opportunities are
available all day
long with over 300
people typically
attending this
event.
- Signature Event
-
Presented by M&T
Bank and Turf Valley
Resort, the
Signature Event is
held in early
October and has
become the premier
event in Howard
County. A time for
business to
recognize
businesses, the
Chamber’s Annual ACE
Awards are
presented, followed
by a nationally
recognized
presenter. Past
presenters have
included humorist
Dave Barry and
political satirist
Mark Russell. Over
600 people attend
this popular event
each year.
- Holiday Party
-
Presented by The Columbia Bank, the Holiday Party takes on a new and exciting theme each year from an
Arctic
Blast to an
International
Affair. This event
is where members are
encouraged to relax
and have fun.
Young Professionals Network
(YPN) Mixers
Often held at member restaurant locations, these events feature two hours of straight networking for those who are the future of the business community. YPN
is a great way to
become involved,
make connections and
have a little fun.
To learn more about
YPN,
click here.