2007
A Record Year for the Nutley Chamber of Commerce

Over the past year, you may have notice an abundance of Nutley Chamber of Commerce ribbon cuttings in the paper. It seems that virtually every week, a business or two, celebrated its new membership with the Chamber. New and established companies alike made 2007 a stellar year for the 55 year old organization. Membership grew from 100 to 145. That's both a membership and growth record. A door-to-door Membership Drive started the ball rolling. But Members' word of mouth really made the difference.

With the membership increase, came an increase in membership involvement. Volunteerism for the Chamber's many committees also greatly improved. Monthly General Membership Luncheons, once only attended by a small handful, boasted a regular attendance of 40 members.

Sponsorships of the Chamber's two annual events, the 5K Fun Run and Santa's Arrival, also raised more money than ever for the organization's efforts.

Why the sudden jump?

"For one thing," said NCoC President, Dr. Donna Pontoriero. "The Chamber is offering its Members more opportunities for exposure than ever before. That's very important to a lot of small business owners."

As mentioned above, both the Nutley Sun and Nutley Journal feature new member ribbon cuttings and a weekly ad box where Renewing Members are acknowledged. Every Member has a listing on the Chamber's website, www.nutleychamber.com. Email forwarding of special events and a Member Referral Service were also introduced last year.

But exposure is only part of the equation. Members benefiting more than ever from the Chamber's close relationship with Mayor Cocchiola and the other Commissioners.

Along with the standard programs expected of a Chamber, Members took advantage of new Member-to-Member discounts, a Business Reference Library and many Members Only discount perks and incentives. Further, The Chamber formed alliances with other regional Chambers, state and local business media and government offices.

"Probably most importantly, we saw an increase in Member to Member communication and cooperation," said NCoC Vice President, Vince LoCurcio.

Among the Chamber's many big plans for 2008 and beyond are assuming the role most Chambers play, that of "Welcome Wagon" for new residents and visitors.

"We are not a center for tourism. But we still get calls from people looking for information about the town," said Pontoriero. Members' brochures and fliers are included in a Welcome to Nutley goodie bag along with a copy of Townscape and a township map.