Omaha Chamber of Commerce builds connections for starting businesses

Starting a business in Omaha or Lincoln seems like a challenging task when there are numerous national chain stores to compete against.  Many entrepreneurs have a difficult time finding the right resources to establish themselves in a tough market. For some, a chamber of commerce may be the right avenue toward success. Local chambers of commerce not only promote what these cities have to offer, they provide beneficial services to small business owners.

The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, for example, is one avenue for area businesses searching for ways to increase success in the Omaha metro.  The chamber has an entire department devoted to entrepreneurs and works with the businesses to increase development by focusing on economic growth and on membership function.  Over 80 percent of the members are small businesses.

Tom Chapman, director of entrepreneurship and innovation for the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, said the Chamber serves three main functions when it comes to small business owners.  The first is connectivity.  The Chamber helps companies find the right customer or helps point the company toward finding customers.

The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce provides area entrepreneurs with a launching platform to get businesses moving in the Omaha metro.

“Instead of making hundreds of calls, we help businesses make the right one call,” Chapman said.  “This saves time and stress and gives time to focus on the business rather than wasting time on finding a customer.”

The second step is strategic positioning.  The Chamber helps these companies form a product and establish their base.  The goal is to find something new and innovative that is unique for the small business. This creates a platform for the company to build off of and grow. Businesses are also given guidance on changes that need to be made in order for success to occur.

The third step is finding peers within the business community to help mentor the new entrepreneur.  Establishing a network of business connections provides not only useful information to those starting out but it also provides education in improving success.  Chapman said the Chamber often works with the University of Nebraska in helping businesses find peers and mentors.

“If somebody walked in off the street and wanted to start a business, we help them find the next person,” Chapman said.  “It might be really important for them to meet with somebody with a business plan or a banker or whoever they need to help them move forward.”

Those interested in joining the Omaha Chamber of Commerce can apply online.  Once a member, the Chamber publishes the particular business’ information in a directory. The directory typically sees over 70,000 views each month. Also, members receive attention through special initiatives such as the Buy the Big O! Show and other events.

“Generally, most of our members are successful before they join and we help augment and accelerate that success,” Chapman said.

Those who seek the guidance of the Omaha Chamber of Commerce typically have stronger tools to grow a business but also maintain a business against other businesses by promoting competition.

“People who join the chamber are more likely to succeed than those who don’t,” Chapman said.  “The Chamber will help you make more money, save time and reduce costs.”