Creating a Chamber is the same process as starting a business. The Chamber of Commerce registration will need to be filed with a state Corporation Commission and the Internal Revenue Service. In order to do this, you will first need to know what type of entity you are forming.
A typical Chamber of Commerce would either be an LLC or a Corporation, as opposed to a sole proprietorship so that it can multiple members. The next thing you will need to know for Chambers of Commerce registration will be a for-profit or non-profit organization, either is acceptable. If it is non-profit you must use a non-profit corporation and apply for 501 c3 status with the IRS. If it is a for-profit corporation or LLC you will need to register an EIN (Employer Identification Number) with the IRS.
The next thing you will want to establish is a business checking account. This will allow separate accounting for your Chamber. Getting listed in local business directories will also be important.
A final step in completing your Chamber of Commerce registration would be to become a member or get accredited with the United States Chamber of Commerce. The membership is about $250 per year and keeps you informed on Chamber related topics as well as providing a listing in their directory.
Registering a Chamber of Commerce is not difficult but there are some critical steps to legitimizing the existence and making it a real business or organization. For more information on how to market your chamber visit SomoSEO.com.