The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce its highest-level designation: Accredited with 5 Stars. This honor recognizes the Chamber’s sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive community impact. Among the more than 7,000 chambers nationwide, the Albany Area Chamber is one of just 151 Five-Star Accredited chambers, placing it in the top 2 percent. 

“Five-Star Accreditation reflects the Albany Area Chamber’s dedication to serving Albany’s businesses and supporting our community’s economic vitality,” said Jeretha Peters, 2024 chairwoman of the Albany Area Chamber Board of Directors. “It’s a testament to the incredible partnership between our board, staff, and members. We are committed to being a guiding force in the Albany Area and propelling our region forward with innovation, vision and resilience. This honor highlights our strategic focus on making Albany an exceptional place to live, work and thrive.” 

The accreditation process involves a comprehensive self-assessment and evaluation across critical areas of operations, including governance, finance, human resources, government affairs, program development, technology, communication and facilities. The Chamber’s Five-Star designation results from its dedicated focus on these components and its continued efforts to improve the business environment in the Albany Area. With this achievement, the Albany Area Chamber is now one of only 12 chambers in Georgia to hold the elite Five-Star accreditation rating. 

“Chambers of commerce that achieve an Accreditation designation are truly leaders in their industry,” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “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. They are commended for their continued advocacy of free enterprise and their commitment to serving members and local businesses.” 

Additionally, the Albany Area Chamber received special recognition for its programs and talent initiatives, including Propel and Propel+, the FLEX ABY partnership, the Go See! Tours and the Albany-Dougherty Talent Strategy 2.0; for its strategic communications strategy, member onboarding and its tiered dues investment model; for government affairs programming including its comprehensive legislative agenda, Albany-Dougherty Day, the Washington, DC Fly In, the Albany Area Political Leadership Institute and its relationships with local, state and federal decision makers; and for organizational excellence, including its employee development programs, strategic digital integration and comprehensive technology plan and a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan that includes communication strategies, resource allocation and support networks for businesses as well as coordination directives with local emergency services and volunteer coordination. 

“Aristotle wrote that ‘Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent execution and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities.’ Our Five-Star Accreditation represents the vision, strategy, dedication and hard work of our Albany Area Chamber team, board and partners, whose north star is remarkability,” said Albany Area Chamber President & CEO Bárbara Rivera Holmes, who also leads the Albany Area Chamber Foundation. “This is my second accreditation cycle with the Albany Area Chamber, and each assessment has allowed us to assess, refine and advance. Five-Star recognition from the U.S. Chamber affirms our steadfast commitment to designing the path, leading with purpose and character, building trust and delivering measurable impact for our members, our region and, notably, our state.” 

The Albany Area boasts a vibrant, diversified economy, with both large and small industry players driving innovation, manufacturing, and economic opportunity. Supported by a competitive workforce, this varied landscape fosters growth and prosperity, benefiting employers and the community alike. The Albany Area Chamber has been pivotal in attracting and sustaining these industries, strengthening the economy and creating new opportunities in Southwest Georgia. 

This milestone for the Albany Area Chamber comes on the heels of a noteworthy achievement for the state of Georgia. For the 11th consecutive year, Georgia was named the No. 1 state for business by Area Development magazine. The state’s pro-business policies, robust infrastructure and skilled workforce continue to make it an attractive destination for domestic and international companies. The Albany Area Chamber’s work aligns closely with these state-level initiatives, further reinforcing Southwest Georgia’s status as a premier place for businesses to establish and grow. “Being a Five-Star accredited chamber means we are representing our members and our community and contributing to the broader success of Georgia’s thriving economy,” said Peters. “Our commitment is to actively drive Albany and Georgia forward by working hand-in-hand with our businesses, partners and public-sector leadership to create a thriving business environment that benefits all Georgians.” 

The U.S. Chamber’s Accreditation Program facilitates continuing excellence in the chamber industry and fosters a pro-business environment across America. To receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including governance, government affairs, communications and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete. The Albany Area Chamber was first accredited in 1997. In 2019, under Holmes’ leadership, it was awarded Four-Star status. The 2024 achievement of Five-Star Accreditation follows the successful execution of #ImpactABY, the Chamber’s robust strategic plan.