Annual membership fees for The Laredo Chamber of Commerce generate 36% of its operating budget. Truly, the Chamber depends on the generosity of its members to supplement much of the activity that it conducts during the year.

Approximately another 30% of the budget is realized through fundraisers and sponsorships of different types.

The rest of the budget is raised through the delivery of services and professional activity.

Each member receives an added value of 81% on every dollar paid in membership fees.

Making use of available resources, partnerships, and general support from its members and benefactors, The Laredo Chamber of Commerce delivers a wide variety of services to its members and the business community during the year.

1) Image
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1915. It is the oldest established business organization in the city. Its membership includes the largest business establishments in the community, as well as small companies. Being a member of the Chamber offers credibility and respect.

2) Voice In Government
Local, State and Federal governmental entities look to the Chamber for input in matters related to business and community development. Throughout the year, representatives of the Laredo Chamber testify locally and in Austin and Washington, D.C., in matters of relevance to its membership.

3) Outreach
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce is one of the leading promoters of Laredo as a place to do business. This invariably generates business for the membership.

4) Publications and Electronic Marketing
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce produces a series of publications that provide information to the membership and, at the same time, serve to promote local business and trade activity.

5) Professional Development
The Laredo Chamber through its different committees sponsors a wide variety of seminars and workshops during the year that help keep membership informed. e.g., Vision Conferences, Business Expo, etc.

6) Professional Services
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce reacts to the needs of the membership. A menu of professional services is available to support different industries, e.g., Certificates of Origin (for import-export industry).

7) Campaigns To Support Local Industry
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce takes the lead when appropriate to stimulate the local economy. Campaigns such as Shop Laredo First/Primero Laredo, Customer Service and Elimination of the Limit are examples of the Laredo Chamber's commitment to business development.

8) Sports
Through a selection of sport-related activities the Laredo Chamber supports local industry and county attractions, e.g., Cola Blanca Big Buck Contest, Bola Blanca Chamber Classic.

9) Staff Services
Membership fees help maintain a professional staff in service full-time year-round. The Laredo Chamber of Commerce staff provides information to its members on a number of issues; they help generate business leads; they promote local industry; and represent business interests in town and other communities.