The United States Chamber of Commerce awarded the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce with 5-Star Accreditation, their highest distinction. The Greater Arlington now ranks among the top 1.5 percent of the more than 7,000 chambers in the nation as one of only 125 chambers to receive the 5-Star ranking and one of only 19 in Texas. Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community.

“We are so thankful and proud to represent such a fantastic and thriving business community,” said Michael Jacobson, President & CEO of the Chamber, “This 5-Star accreditation showcases that our members are our priority. By working together with our members, local and state government, educational institutions and community stakeholders, we can get so much done and continue the momentum of our growing economy.”

In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. Beyond basic accreditation, a Chamber can be awarded three, four or five stars.  To receive 5-star accreditation, the Greater Arlington Chamber had to meet the basic standards, plus demonstrate the implementation of at least 90% of additional Chamber best practices.

The Chamber submitted a required nine-part application with 74 attachments. The application is first scored by an outside reviewer. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.

“Accreditation validates a chamber as having programs that benefit its local economy and positively influence its community,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber Vice President of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management, “We applaud these organizations for advancing the principles of free enterprise.”