The U.S. Chamber of Commerce just awarded 17 local chambers of commerce their Accreditation designation for sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. Just one Georgia chamber received accreditation at this time, the Greater North Fulton Chamber, recognized with their highest honor of 5 Stars.

“Accredited chambers are recognized for their ability to serve as a resource to their region’s businesses while maintaining transparent governance practices, sound financial controls, safe work environments, effective communications, and value in programming,” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber VP of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “They [the Greater North Fulton Chamber] are commended for their continued advocacy of free enterprise and for this tremendous accomplishment.”

The purpose of the U.S. Chamber’s Accreditation Program is to facilitate excellence in the chamber industry and to promote a pro-business environment. To receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet standards related to areas of governance, government affairs, communications and technology.

This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete. Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars or 5-Stars. Final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.

“I am so proud of the Chamber team who works incredibly hard and is so dedicated to our members across North Fulton,” said GNFCC CEO Kali Boatright. “Only one percent of Chambers in the country currently hold a 5-star accreditation, the highest honor awarded.”