The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce allows Chamber businesses to host a Business After Hours or Ribbon Cutting event as a benefit of membership. A Business After Hours is a relaxed environment which allows professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can lead to future collaborations, partnerships, and business opportunities. Ribbon Cuttings are typically a celebration of a new chamber member, new business, renovation, or relocation. By participating in or hosting these events, businesses demonstrate their commitment to the local community, which can enhance their reputation and strengthen community ties. 

Recently, we were excited to join United Way of Pekin, Rebrand Credit Union, Good Shepherd Lutheran School, Charter Senior Living, and Liberty Village of Pekin at their events. Hosting an event allows a business to showcase its location, services, and products to a targeted audience, increasing brand awareness and potentially attracting new customers. Hosting the event can also serve as a marketing tool, with the Chamber typically promoting the event through its channels, further boosting visibility for the host business. These events are held on the second Thursday of each month and the chamber is now accepting 2025 reservations.

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY RECOGNITION LUNCHEON:
Save the date for the 27th Annual Business & Community Recognition Luncheon. Each year, the Pekin business community gathers to celebrate the milestones and successes of our local businesses and community organizations. From remodeling projects or expansions to a major retraining effort, we take this time to recognize the efforts of our businesses. In addition, we will name the Business Leader of the Year and the Business of the Year. Nominations are now open and can be found on our website at pekinchamber.com/business-recognition-luncheon/. This year’s event will be held on Thursday, October 17 at 11:30am at the Pekin Moose Lodge. 

SMARTSTART PEKIN:
Each month on the third Tuesday at 5pm, a group of energetic entrepreneurs gather at the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce for a networking and education session geared towards small start-up businesses. This gathering is open to all businesses and there is no cost. This group offers encouragement and support to each other, as well as resources necessary for these budding businesses to succeed. Follow SmartStart Pekin on Facebook for all of the details!  

MISS MARIGOLD PAGEANT:
Congratulations to 2024 Miss Marigold Sophia Vansaghi and Junior Miss Marigold Savannah Nizzia crowned at the Miss Marigold Pageant held on August 10, 2024. These young women and their court will appear at the Pekin Marigold Festival.