BRANSON, MO. – The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB has been awarded five-star accreditation, the highest designation possible from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Out of some 7,000 chambers of commerce throughout the country, less than 150 chambers nationwide carry this prestigious honor.

“Five-star accredited chambers of commerce are impactful advocates for the business community,” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President.  “When chambers earn this distinction, it is a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership. This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming. 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. It is an extraordinary accomplishment.”

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Accreditation program is the only one of its kind which defines excellence in chamber performance and planning. The comprehensive review is conducted only once every five years and can take more than nine months to complete.

“This national recognition speaks to the level of professionalism and overall influence of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB,” said 2024 Chairman Dr. Rob Griffith. “We’re not just a networking group, our chamber team and volunteer leaders help spur economic development, advocate to government on behalf of more than 800 businesses and tell Branson’s story to millions of visitors each year through strategic marketing.”

The purpose of the U.S. Chamber's Accreditation Program is to facilitate continuing excellence in the chamber industry and to foster a pro-business environment across America. Chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.

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The above press release is from the Branson Chamber of Commerce.