The Chamber of Catawba County is a non-profit business membership organization representing 825 business Shareholders and Investors in Catawba County, N.C and the greater region. The Chamber of Catawba County is unique in its ability to provide a platform for connectivity, educational opportunities, and valuable access to business resources for organizations of all sizes and types through the area…while also serving as the premier advocate for all of Catawba County on business needs and emerging issues. For professionals, executives, business leaders and community builders looking to gain greater confidence in their ability to be successful in their endeavors, The Chamber works as a vital convener to get things done for the business community. 

Yes! We, too, referred to our partners as our members (and sometimes you’ll catch us use this term as well-sometimes decades-long habits are hard to break!), however, we strongly feel the term “partner” best describes our relationship with each business or organization who chooses to invest annually in The Chamber’s pro-business mission.

A Partner has a vested interest in the success of a mission or task. They are actively engaged in the work needed to accomplish a vision. They provide needed influence, a specific expertise, and/or unique perspectives to get things done. Our program of work is developed by our Chamber Partners and for our Chamber Partners in direct response to the most pressing needs of business in Catawba County.

Shareholder is the term we use to refer to those Partners who invest in The Chamber of Catawba County at an annual investment level between $400-$1,574. We currently have three levels of Partnership: Micro-Enterprise, Business Builder, & Business Leaders.

Investors are Partners who make an investment of greater than $1,575 annually. These leading organizations make a vital commitment to the economic vitality of Catawba County through their enhanced investment in our program of work while also utilizing additional exclusive privileges. See all of our Investors here and learn about privileges here.

Our tiered partnership model allows you to customize your annual investment and select the level that best aligns with your desired contribution to fuel The Chamber’s pro-business mission, as well as, the privileges you hope to receive in return. To better understand your needs and help you figure out which tier would make the most impact for you, please contact Nathan Cooley, Partner Recruitment and Sponsorship Manager, to setup a call or visit to learn more. You can also see all of our different levels here. 

Although the business is the named partner of The Chamber of Catawba County, any employee of the partner organization can take advantage of any partner-exclusive privileges. 

Yes! The Chamber values our nonprofit partners, which are an integral and defining component of our community. Nonprofits join The Chamber for various reasons and consider us to be their avenue to the local business community. Chamber affiliation can help you secure donations, source volunteers, find Board members, and increase your visibility and mission within our community. 

We strive to create a culture that is diverse and inclusive, where all professionals feel they are valued and belong. You’ll find that professionals who engage with The Chamber, are some of the most engaged, influential, and successful people in this region. We feel confident, regardless of age or experience level, you’ll connect with others who will become valuable business partners, trusted colleagues, loyal customers, caring mentors and lasting friends.

Also, in 2008, The Chamber of Catawba County founded the Hickory Young Professionals (HYP) to provide professional development and networking opportunities specifically for young professionals in the Greater Hickory Metro.  Although they are now an independent organization, we consider them a sister organization and encourage you to check them out and get involved. Learn more here.

-Read our weekly e-newsletter to keep up with all of our programs, events, and initiatives. If you aren’t receiving them, contact Kathy Austin, Communications & Projects Specialist.
-Check our events calendar often and make plans to attend a Chamber event. 
-Send us an inquiry about joining a Leads Exchange Group, Board, or Committee.
-Consider volunteering as an Ambassador or joining Leadership Catawba.
-Subscribe to our weekly Advocacy@Work video series.

The Small Business Center at Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC SBC) works with start-ups and existing small businesses through offering training seminars and providing confidential business counseling. There is no cost to use these services. For more information, click here. For referrals to local insurance agents, banks, accountants, lawyers, attorneys, and realtors, please visit our Business Directory.

We have forged partnerships with one of our state’s most experienced business assistance programs: the university based NC Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC). The SBTDC has a proven track record of helping businesses develop high-return strategies, increasing sales, developing new markets, building talent, and enhancing leadership capabilities. Learn more.

Access our Business Directory to find over 800 businesses to support. We also invite you to follow us on Instagram and Facebook stories as we reshare Partner content. and announce new Partners, Ribbon Cuttings, and Celebrations.

Great choice! Catawba County has an array of amenities one can enjoy-from robust arts, history and cultural attractions, to a fresh culinary scene and a diverse landscape one can take in by hike, bike, or paddle. Whether it’s a vacation, a sporting event, furniture shopping, business travel, or a stop on your way to your final destination that has you exploring the Hickory Metro, we encourage you to visit www.visithickorymetro.com to plan your stay.

If you’re considering our area for the next place you can call home, we encourage you to visit our Relocation Resources section online where you can download our Digital Relocation Guide that features links to area destinations, art shows, events, and festivals. Stop by our Visitors Center anytime M-F during our business hours from 8:30AM-5:00PM to pick up free maps, travel guides, and attraction brochures.

The Chamber does not process complaints about businesses. Complaints should be directed to the Better Business Bureau by calling (704) 927-8611 or by filing a complaint online. 

If you are not yet a Chamber Partner, we invite you to attend as a guest at our First Friday Morning Brews or Leads Exchange Groups up to 2 times. Should you be interested, please contact Nathan. Ticketed Chamber events are open to non-partners at a non-partner rate. To take advantage of partner rates, learn more about joining The Chamber here. 

All levels of Shareholders & Investors are eligible to receive a complimentary ribbon cutting, if guidelines are met. Whether you’re a new business in Catawba County, want to announce an expansion or a new location, or have a milestone anniversary coming up, our celebrations are a time to showcase what your business has to offer our community. Learn all about our celebrations here. You may also upgrade to a Deluxe Ribbon Cutting through our Marketing@Work offerings here.

Visit our Job Seekers page for more information on local resources and programs to help you find employment in Catawba County. You can also view our Job Postings here from Partner organizations. If you’re a transitioning military service member, visit our dedicated resource, HKY4Vets. We also recommend contacting staffing agencies that are a part of The Chamber here.

Read our weekly e-newsletters on visit our events page. If you are an active Partner and are not receiving our weekly newsletters, contact Kathy to be added.

No, we are a non-profit business association that is fully funded by the voluntary investment of our Chamber Partners. While we do work closely with local officials within the city and county to accomplish our pro-business mission, we are separate entities. 

No, sponsorship is an exclusive privilege of Partners of The Chamber of Catawba County. To learn more about our sponsorship opportunities, please contact Nathan, our Partnership Recruitment & Sponsorship Manager.

Contact any member of our staff here. You may also call us at 828-328-6111 during our normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM-5:00 PM.