Nonprofits address urgent needs, deliver critical services, and elevate our quality of life—from food banks and youth programs to arts organizations and environmental initiatives.
But why are they always asking for discounts?
All joking aside (sort of) for many chambers of commerce, nonprofits can feel like difficult members. They’re often short on funds, asking for price breaks, and requesting access to membership lists or sponsor connections. At times, the relationship can feel one-sided.
That perception, however, misses a vital opportunity.
When chambers and nonprofits work together intentionally, the relationship becomes a powerful engine for shared impact. Nonprofits gain visibility, resources, and partnerships that strengthen their missions. Chambers deepen their community influence, diversify their network, and engage passionate professionals who can bring fresh energy to the organization.
This isn’t just about giving more. It’s about building smarter.
Understand Nonprofits
To serve nonprofit members better, you must first understand their operating environment and how they see your community. Unlike businesses, nonprofits exist to fulfill a mission, not generate a profit. Most operate with limited staff, tight budgets (sound familiar?), and heavy reporting requirements tied to things like grant funding.
Every expenditure must be mission-justified, which makes it difficult for nonprofit leaders to pay membership dues or sponsor chamber events without a clear return.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t want to participate. On the contrary, many nonprofit professionals are eager to join, contribute, and collaborate—they just need an accessible entry point and a chamber that understands their reality.
Making Membership More Accessible
Chambers can increase nonprofit engagement by offering more flexible membership models. Many have a discounted nonprofit rate or a simplified benefits tier. But you might also offer a scholarship-supported membership to remove the financial barrier while preserving value.
In some cases, chambers have found success offering mission-based organizations opportunities to contribute in-kind—such as volunteering at events, providing free venues, or leading workshops—in exchange for reduced dues. This mutual exchange affirms that nonprofits are not simply asking for handouts but looking for meaningful ways to participate.
Create a Space Just for Them
Nonprofits benefit from having their own space within the chamber to collaborate, learn, and share challenges. Hosting a regular nonprofit roundtable or affinity group—either as part of your committee structure or as a quarterly gathering—can help nonprofit leaders feel seen and supported.
These sessions can cover topics like fundraising strategy, volunteer management, marketing on a shoestring budget, and leadership development. By offering professional development tailored to their needs, the chamber strengthens nonprofit operations while reinforcing the value of membership.
Make Introductions That Matter
One of the most powerful ways you can support your nonprofit members is by helping them make meaningful connections. Introduce nonprofit leaders to potential corporate sponsors, board members, or event partners. Consider hosting joint events that bring together nonprofits and businesses in ways that lead to shared projects and partnerships.
Many nonprofits would love to collaborate with local businesses—whether through co-branded events, employee volunteer programs, or shared marketing efforts—but lack the time or capacity to pursue them. We see this with restaurants when they host a specific nonprofit night. The eatery offers to share 10-20% of the proceeds of meals purchased by supporters of the non-profit. In turn, the non-profit markets the restaurant to its list and drives more business for the restaurant. Everyone wins. The chamber can serve as the connector, helping these partnerships take root.
Give Them the Microphone
Visibility is gold for nonprofits, especially those without dedicated communications staff or advertising budgets. You can support nonprofit members by offering space in newsletters, blogs, or social media channels to share impact stories, upcoming events, or calls for volunteers.
However, make sure you create some perimeters around this or you may be inundated with requests. That’s why some chambers create limited opportunities for nonprofits. For instance, featuring a “Nonprofit of the Month” on your website or allowing nonprofits to present at networking events and luncheons. This opportunities can go a long way in helping them build relationships, raise awareness, and attract new supporters. In return, the chamber is seen as a civic leader invested in more than just the bottom line.
Addressing the Chamber’s Concerns
Understandably, many chamber professionals express frustration that some nonprofits join only to ask for discounts, access, or sponsorship leads without offering anything in return. It can feel like the chamber is constantly giving, with little reciprocity.
But that’s often a symptom of unclear expectations rather than unwillingness to give back.
With a well-defined membership structure, chambers can offer nonprofit members value and set boundaries. Spell out which benefits are included and which require sponsorship or additional investment. Offer pathways for engagement—like joining a committee, volunteering at an event, or sharing a resource—that allow nonprofits to contribute within their means.
And remember: when you help a nonprofit thrive, you gain a loyal advocate. Many nonprofit leaders are deeply embedded in the community and eager to champion organizations that support them. They can serve as enthusiastic ambassadors for the chamber, refer new members, and bring diverse voices into your programs and events.
How the Chamber Benefits from Nonprofit Members
Welcoming nonprofits isn’t just about generosity—it’s a smart business strategy.
Nonprofits extend the chamber’s reach into communities that traditional businesses often overlook. They engage with youth, seniors, underserved families, veterans, artists, and more. Through these connections, the chamber gains access to new audiences and can better understand the full scope of community needs.
They also bring depth to your programming. Nonprofit leaders are experienced in advocacy, collaboration, and navigating complex systems. Their perspectives can enrich chamber policy work, workforce development efforts, and community initiatives.
And perhaps most importantly, nonprofits enhance your brand. When your chamber is seen as a true community convener—one that supports business growth and community well-being—you become more than just a member service organization. You become a trusted, mission-aligned leader.
The Power of Partnership
Nonprofits aren’t looking for a free ride. They’re looking for partners.
With intentional outreach, clear expectations, and a commitment to shared value, you can turn what feels like a one-sided relationship into a thriving, mutually beneficial partnership. When chambers help nonprofits build capacity, expand their reach, and grow their impact, the whole community wins.
It’s not about what you give away. It’s about what you build together.
