The Fuquay-Varina Area Chamber of Commerce is a private, voluntary non-profit organization of businesses and professional people dedicated to improving the economic environment of our community and fostering the development of business growth and prosperity. We work to improve and increase commerce by developing, encouraging, promoting and protecting the commercial, professional, financial, general business and residential interests of the Fuquay-Varina area.

The Fuquay-Varina Area Chamber of Commerce has two primary functions: (1) to act as spokesperson for the business and professional community while implementing action plans based on the goals of its board and membership, and (2) to render services aligned with its stated mission.

The Chamber currently serves over 420 members, a diverse group of individual members, small business owners, professional service providers and representatives of large corporations and industry. From small, family-owned businesses to corporations with a global presence, our membership growth is driven by the unprecedented growth of the
area. Our organization encourages members to do business with one another and refer business to other members. The Chamber, in turn, promotes and encourages new and existing residents to use those members that support their community.

The Fuquay-Varina Area Chamber of Commerce pursues its program of work through seven distinct committees, listed below, all of which report to the Board of Directors.

Chair: Lauren McLeod, Four Oaks Bank

The Ambassadors committee was established to serve new members and prospective members of the Chamber of Commerce. This committee is involved in active recruitment and expansion of membership. Once a business joins the Chamber, Ambassadors assist the member in transitioning to become active and involved in Chamber functions. The final responsibility of this committee is to help educate new members and prospects about the benefits of Chamber membership, while acting as a liaison between the Chamber and the general membership.

Chair: Fred Papa

The Economic Development Committee acts as the Chamber’s vehicle to identify, target, retain and recruit small business. This committee works closely with the Economic Development Commission and the Town to foster economic growth in the community.  The creation of new jobs, the retention and expansion of existing business and industry and the recruitment of new business will contribute to a strong local economy, a rising standard of living and an enhanced quality of life for all the residents of Fuquay-Varina.

Chair: Wanda Denning, Grocery Boy, Jr.

The Education Council serves as a clearinghouse of information regarding educational issues in our area and facilitates a vital relationship between Fuquay-Varina’s  schools and community businesses. The Education Council works to ensure that achievements in local education receive the support and recognition they deserve. By capturing the energies and capabilities within our community, we will actively connect young people with the resources they need to lead healthier and more productive lives.

Government Affairs Committee

Chair: TBA

This committee was established to help assure a quality economic and business environment through government interaction. The group’s goals include keeping members informed on proposed legislation or actions that may have an economic impact (mainly at the local and county levels) and to present policies and agendas to these governmental units. The group also identifies and establishes contact with key members of government. When necessary, the group will develop action plans that will encourage participation by Chamber members at the local or county level to develop cooperation among other organizations of commerce. When appropriate, this group will cooperate with Town officials in a team approach to present information to improve understanding of a local issue, such as transportation, infrastructure, etc.

Marketing Committee

Chair: Joanne Bouchard

The Marketing Committee was developed to assist the Chamber with promoting events and services of the Chamber to its own members and the Town of Fuquay-Varina. The group aims to present a consistent image for the Chamber through its collateral marketing materials, the web site, events promotion, answers to travel and tourism related inquiries and distribution of relocation information. This group seeks to present the benefits of Fuquay-Varina to potential visitors throughout Wake County, the state of North Carolina, the nation and the world.

Professional Women’s Leadership Association

Contact: Sue Tarabokia

PWLA brings diverse businesswomen together to offer opportunities for networking, business information and education and support to women through mentoring and a scholarship program. The group is run by a steering committee and meets quarterly. In addition to providing networking opportunities, these meetings feature speakers with presentations on business and personal development.