Starting a successful business can be one of the most rewarding things in life. Unfortunately, statistics show that a high percentage of small businesses fail every year. Through proper planning, preparation and guidance, many common pitfalls can be avoided.
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) is dedicated to supporting and promoting small business, helping make businesses successful. We offer resources to assist along the path of turning entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
Resources for Small Businesses
GRCA is committed to helping existing small businesses grow and be successful.
Training
GRCA offers training and seminars geared to meet the needs of small businesses. We offer education in areas such as: management, sales, marketing and finance. GRCA members enjoy 25% off all training costs. Contact Mark Dolinski, VP of Training & Professional Development Training.
Marketing
Want to be featured in Commerce Quarterly Magazine? Contact Leah Fassnacht, Director of Communications and Marketing.
Funding
Looking to secure financing for your business’s growth, contact Kayla Hayick, Director of Lending & Business Outreach, at 610.898.7761.
Networking
We hold monthly Networking@Night events on the fourth Thursday of every month, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. highlighting a different member company. These are a great opportunity to network with other business leaders. Twice a year we hold Power Networking events where attendees engage in rapid-fire networking over lunch.
Coffee&Convos and Lunch&Learn
These events are geared towards small businesses – giving them tools they can use immediately for growth. They are also a great opportunity to meet with other small business.
Ambassadors Program
The mission of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance Ambassador Program is to promote member commitment and retention by raising awareness of GRCA activities and benefits, informing and involving new GRCA Members to promote strong continuing membership, encouraging meaningful and beneficial participation in GRCA Programs, and serving as a liaison between the GRCA staff and membership.
Elevate Berks
Elevate Berks is a community-wide initiative that brings together over a dozen organizations dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Greater Reading. The initiative focuses on three core areas:
- Navigate – A centralized website with tools, resources and partner information to help business owners get connected.
- Educate – Events and programs that inform, inspire and build community.
- Collaborate – A strong network of partners working to streamline services and expand impact.
Explore the Elevate Berks website to access technical assistance, funding opportunities and programming offered by our regional partners, all in one place.
Elevate Berks is financially managed by the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance and led by the collective input of its partners.
