Frequently Asked Questions

No, you do not need a business license for Emanuel County. The only type of licensing we the county require is for the sale and/or consumption on premises of alcoholic beverages. However, if your business is located inside a city limits, you'll want to check its specific requirements on business licensing. The chamber may be able to assist you with this as well.

No, joining the chamber is not a requirement for starting a business in Emanuel County. However, it can be one of the most valuable steps you take as a new business owner. Chamber membership connects you with a network of local entrepreneurs and established businesses, provides access to resources that can make your start-up journey smoother, and offers promotional opportunities to help you establish a presence in the community. While it’s not mandatory, becoming a chamber member is an investment in your success and a way to tap into a supportive community that wants to see your business thrive, so we highly suggest it.

If you’re a chamber member looking to celebrate a grand opening, anniversary, or other milestone, scheduling a ribbon cutting is easy. Simply contact the chamber office directly or email their team to discuss available dates and details. Ribbon cuttings are a fantastic way to gain exposure for your business while engaging with the community.

To schedule a meeting with chamber staff, call or email the office to arrange a time. The county office does not have access to the chamber's daily calendar, so all scheduling inquiries must go through the Chamber itself. Their team is happy to assist and will work with you to find a convenient time to meet and discuss your needs.

Membership dues for individuals are more affordable than business rates, making it an excellent option for those looking to support the local economy and get involved in community initiatives. For example, the annual rate for individual members is only $250, compared to higher rates for business memberships.

Joining as an individual is especially beneficial if your employer isn’t a chamber member. It allows you to connect with local business leaders, attend networking events, and stay informed about economic developments in Emanuel County. Membership gives you a platform to engage with the community, support local businesses, and access valuable chamber resources, all while building your own professional network.

The chamber offers a flat membership rate for businesses, regardless of size or industry. For example, the annual rate for business membership is $___, making it an accessible and worthwhile investment for any organization.

Yes. The chamber keeps a running list of local job opportunities on its website.

A complete list of current members can be found in the chamber’s online membership directory. This directory not only highlights the businesses and organizations involved but also serves as a valuable resource for community connections and referrals.

Nope! While most members are local businesses and individuals, the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce also has members from other areas, most within about an hour radius of our community but some as far away as Florida.

To serve on the chamber board, you must first be an active member of the chamber. Each year, board members are nominated by the general membership through an anonymous balloting process, ensuring a fair and representative selection.

Executive, or "titled," board members are also chosen through this nomination process. Once elected, they serve a four-year term, rotating through various leadership positions during their tenure. This structure ensures consistent leadership while providing opportunities for new voices to contribute to the chamber’s mission. If you're interested in serving, becoming actively involved in chamber events and initiatives is a great first step.

The chamber holds regular events every month, creating opportunities for members to connect with chamber leadership and one another. Additionally, members can schedule individual meetings with staff as needed to discuss specific needs or initiatives.

However, the chamber's major event takes place each January. This annual meeting exists to celebrate and recognize community achievements. During this event, awards such as Person of the Year and Business of the Year are presented. STAR Student and Teacher awards are also given to representatives from each high school, and a duo is selected to represent Emanuel County at the state STAR competition. The meeting also serves as a time to welcome incoming board members, honor outgoing ones, and highlight the chamber’s plans for the year ahead.