The U.S. Chamber established its Accreditation program in 1964 at the request of progressive chambers of commerce across the country that wanted to stand out from the crowd. Forty-six chambers were accredited that first year. (Pictured above is a Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce executive accepting Accreditation.)

Accreditation provides institutions with continuous self-analysis of their growth and development. Accredited chambers are recognized for having sound programs and organizational procedures and for creating and maintaining positive change in the community. 

More than 800 chambers have participated in the program since its inception, and just 223 of nearly 7,000 chambers in the United States are accredited.