Two Berks chambers of commerce launch strategic alliance

The Northeast Berks Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) have launched a new strategic partnership the organizations say will offer their members expanded opportunities for business growth, networking and educational activities.

Through the end of 2023, members of the Northeast Berks chamber will have the opportunity to participate in upcoming GRCA events, training programs and advocacy initiatives, according to a release.

The alliance opens up more opportunities for Northeast Berks chamber members to attend events hosted by GRCA, meet GRCA members and build relationships, according to Treva Florence, executive director of the Northeast Berks Chamber of Commerce.

The program also benefits GRCA members by offering them the opportunity to meet and build relationships, expanding their network as well.

“I am excited to be part of this innovative partnership with the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance,” Barbara Coffin, president of the Northeast Berks Chamber of Commerce, said in a statement. “It will be a benefit to members of the Northeast Berks Chamber of Commerce to share the expanded resources, and will open up a much wider variety of programs, networking and educational activities.”

If Northeast Berks chamber members see a GRCA event they are interested in, they can register for the event under the “NEBerks Chamber Member” option and receive special pricing, Rachael Romig, senior director, business development services, events and special programs, and sponsorships & advertising for GRCA, said in an emailed response to questions.

For training workshops, the price is the same as a GRCA member. For GRCA member exclusive events, the NEBerks chamber price is the same as a GRCA member, according to Romig. For all other events that offer GRCA member pricing and future member pricing, the NEBerks chamber members receive a discounted future member price.

“The Northeast Berks Chamber reaches many small businesses in Berks County, and we are welcoming them with open arms to continue their development and make new connections at our events,” Romig said in a statement.

The Northeast Berks chamber represents businesses in five boroughs and eight townships in the East Penn Valley area. Through the alliance, the businesses will have the opportunity to leverage GRCA’s well-established network and resources, contributing to increasing a greater demographic and economic development beyond the Greater Reading area, according to the release.

For more details about upcoming events and how to participate, visit greaterreading.org or reach out to the Northeast Berks chamber by visiting northeastberkschamber.com/.