National awards presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives recognize industry-leading Chambers

GWSI staff photo

Greater Winston-Salem Inc. has been named the 2024 Chamber of the Year, in an awards competition held by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) recognizing the best organizations in the industry. 

Exceptional chambers that earn the award have demonstrated organizational strength and made an impact on key community priorities. The award recognizes excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership.

“This is a remarkable achievement for our team and a definitive indicator of the transformative community impact we can make through leadership, vision, and collaboration, ” says Mark Owens, President and CEO of Greater Winston-Salem Inc. “When we launched as Greater Winston-Salem Inc. four years ago, we set a strong vision for a thriving business community, economic growth, and equitable access to educational and career opportunities for all. We are leading the way in changing how Chambers of Commerce serve and lead in their communities, shifting to meet the needs of today’s employers and workforce. We’ve achieved this by building on a legacy over 100 years in the making since the inception of the Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce. I am incredibly proud of our results and this recognition from ACCE.”

“On behalf of the board, I am excited to congratulate the Greater Winston-Salem Inc. team on this well-deserved award”, says Cathy Pace, Chair of the board of directors. “Winston-Salem has the best chamber of commerce in the country, and we should all be very proud of that. Their outstanding work strengthens our economy and local businesses, and generates opportunities for our workforce. Greater Winston-Salem Inc.’s achievements are made possible through partnership and collaboration. I’d like to thank our members, investors, board, and multitude of community partners for working with us every day towards these achievements.” 

Chamber of the year award group photo

Greater Winston-Salem Inc. Chamber of the Year Highlights:

  • $803.7 million in capital investment and 2,033+ jobs generated since 2020
  • $889,000 in Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) grants distributed
  • Diversification of revenue streams with +$1 million in contributions and grants
  • Volunteer boards and committees including Ambassadors, Winston Under 40 Advisory Board, Public Policy Committee, Senior Academy mentors, and more
  • Education and talent development programs and economic mobility efforts including Forsyth Works, ASPIRE Work-Ready Credential and Internship program, Senior Academy, World of Work, and more. 

The finalists for Chamber of the Year were announced in May. There are three finalists in each of four categories, based on the organization’s size, revenue, and other factors. Greater Winston-Salem Inc. is in Category 4 representing the largest organizations.

“Chambers of Commerce play an increasingly vital role in promoting regional prosperity,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “This achievement demonstrates their commitment to fostering vibrant communities and achieving organizational success. Congratulations on Greater Winston-Salem Inc.’s outstanding leadership, dedication to its community and serving as a role model for the Chamber profession.”

Applications for Chamber of the Year are scored by peer chamber executives to determine finalists. Winners are selected based on an interview with a panel of experienced chamber professionals. The Chamber of the Year awards are presented by Growth Zone.