Chamber FAQs
What is the Chamber of Commerce?
The Houston East End Chamber (EECOC) is a membership based non-profit corporation 501 (c-6) founded locally in 1991. Today the organization works to strengthen the East End community and serving as a business association that provides networking, marketing and advocacy services for its members. Through the support of our members, we work with the mission to connect business and promote economic expansion and investment in the East End.
What geographic area does the Chamber represent?
The EECOC covers a large geographic area. The Chamber service area starts with 59 South behind downtown (by Minute Maid Park), spans along I-10 East to Federal Road. Federal road turns into Shaver Street and loops around to Almeda Genoa Road. The area is closed by Mykawa road. A map of the Chamber Area can be found on Page 33 of the 2019 East End Guide. The Chamber also represents surrounding communities.
If I am not in the Chamber coverage area can I still join?
Chamber Partners may not reside or office in the East End but due to our proximity to the Port, Medical Center, Downtown and Hobby Airport, many of our Chamber Partners gain a lot of value by being part of our organization.
How is the Chamber funded?
The Chamber is not government funded and funds operations through multiple sources, including membership dues, special events, sponsorships, services and more.
Is the Chamber a part of local government?
No. While the Chamber has a works closely with local elected officials and provides a connection for businesses in the area, the Chamber is not part of city or county government.
Does the EECOC endorse candidates or have a PAC?
No, the Chamber is a nonpartisan organization and doesn’t endorse political candidates, maintain a PAC or participate in campaign activities. We’re committed to educating our members on issues that impact the competitiveness of our region and the ability of local companies to hire, grow and prosper. Through advocacy efforts, we provide resources to help members make informed voting decisions and get engaged on pressing business community issues.
What kinds of organizations join the Houston East End Chamber?
Businesses of every size and industry are members of the East End Chamber. We have organizations from large manufacturing organizations which pays homage to the industrial background of the area and Port partners to small family owned mom & pop shops and restaurants, some new and some old.
What are the benefits of joining the Houston East End Chamber?
A Chamber membership opens the doors to endless advertising and sponsorship opportunities that will make your business more visible and successful. The Chamber also provides many networking opportunities, business referrals, connections, Leadership development opportunities and much more.
Can I get a list of Chamber members and their contact information?
To find a specific company, you can search by name or industry category in our online Business Directory. This listing will provide the company name, physical address, phone number, fax number, representative’s name, website and the option to send an email directly to that business through the website. The Chamber does not give out the email addresses of our members. A full list of Chamber members is available to Chamber members at the Silver level or higher. You will receive the file as a list, in an excel format. For more information please email chamber@eecoc.org.
Does the Chamber help businesses when they have a problem?
Yes. As part of its advocacy program, the Chamber works with businesses that maybe experiencing an issue with the City. We’ll use our excellent working relationships with elected officials to facilitate conversations and meetings, all to work towards a resolution.
Will joining the Chamber grow my sales?
Chamber partnership does not guarantee a dollar or % amount of growth however, every partnership has its rewards through connections. To support sales, members are encouraged to promote their business to other Chamber members through participation in our Member to Member Discount Program. Using member only portal access, member offers are promoted to the entire Chamber membership and other business owners, and their employees use member products and services.
What demographic information can I get on the East End area?
For more information on the demographics of the East End, visit eecoc.org/at-a-glance-2019.