Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q:Is the Board of Trade a chamber of commerce?
A: Yes, the Board of Trade, established in 1889, serves as the area’s only regional chamber of commerce – representing employers in Northern Virginia, DC and Suburban Maryland. Our members are interested in doing business across jurisdictional lines and recognize that the most challenging issues facing the region must be solved on a regional basis.
Q: What geographic area does the Board of Trade cover?
A: Board of Trade member firms span the entire Washington metropolitan region, roughly from south of Frederick, MD to just north of Richmond, VA. For a regional map, check out www.greaterwashington.org, the website of our economic development affiliate, the Greater Washington Initiative.
Q: What does the Board of Trade do?
A: The Board’s dual mission is summarized in our tagline: Growing Business. Building Community. The Board:
- Creates business opportunities through networking events and community-building projects;
- Represents businesses and their employees on a wide range of issues through its advocacy programs, and Potomac Conference;
- Markets the region as a vibrant place to work and live through the Greater Washington Initiative
Q: I belong to a local chamber, so why should I join the Board of Trade?
A: There are many excellent local chambers in the area. They serve the needs of businesses in one part of the region, but their mission does not include representing the business interests of the entire Washington metropolitan area. If you’re interested in helping to solve regional issues and/or want to broaden your client base beyond the borders of your community, joining the Board of Trade makes good sense. For more info about membership benefits, contact Kevin O'Neill at 202.857.5960.
Q: Is Board of Trade membership by company or by individual?
A: Membership is by company, so your company can have as many representatives as you like. In fact, we strongly recommend that several individuals from each member company, if possible, get involved in our programs and attend Board of Trade events.
Q: Who is allowed to attend events and meetings?
A: Anyone from a member company is welcome to attend a Board of Trade meeting. Clearly, certain meetings are geared more for sales/marketing staff rather than for the CEO, but it’s up to each member to determine who comes to which event or meeting. For a sample of upcoming meetings, check out the calendar.
Q: How does the Board of Trade work with other regional groups?
A: The Board of Trade works collaborates with many regional organizations to further its goals and priorities. Our advocacy teams regularly works with groups such as:
- Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
- WMATA
- Washington, DC Convention and Tourism Corporation
- Hotel Association of Washington, DC
- AAA
- Chesapeake Bay Foundation
and many others, depending on the issue in which we’re involved. When you review our long and short-term priorities, it will be clear that “it takes a village.”
Q: How can I promote my company through the Board of Trade?
A: The Board of Trade offers your company numerous ways to gain visibility among the leading businesses – and their leaders - in Greater Washington. You can sponsor an event, advertise in our Digital Directory or on our website; or simply make your presence known by consistently attending Board of Trade networking functions. Check out the calendar for a list of upcoming events
Q: How is the Board of Trade structured and governed?
A: The Board of Trade is a private, non-profit membership organization. A volunteer Board of Directors, headed by a Chair elected annually, sets the policy and agenda for the organization; an Executive Committee of the Board carries out monthly oversight. A full-time president and staff of more than 30 carry out the Board’s day-to-day operations.
Q: I'm sold. How do I join the Board of Trade?
A: Please contact Kevin O'Neill at 202.857.5960 to discuss the application and address any questions you may have.
Q: Who's joining the Board of Trade?
A: Check out our new members or search our member directory.
Q: I recently joined the Board of Trade. Now what do I do?
A: We’re delighted to have you on board! You can get acquainted with the Board’s programs and business opportunities:
- Check out opportunities for involvement and decide which committee or task force appeals to your interest and time availability.
- Attend the Jump Start program
- Pick a few upcoming events to attend. Meet, greet and exchange business cards... you’ll find a friendly group of professionals who are interested in meeting you!
- Take a few moments to download the Digital Directory so you’ll have contact info on your fellow members at your fingertips.
- Read the Board of Trade's bi-weekly newsletter, Across the Board to keep up-to-date with the latest activities and outcomes.
Search
