Page 5 - Wilkes NCG 2026_Flipbook

Founded for

Community,

Progressing

for the Future

Wilkes Chamber
Celebrates 80 Years of
Local Economic Development

S brighter tomorrow, Wilkes County TogeTher, We All
haped by people who believe in a
Achieve More:
is a gem, not only because of where
Today, the Wilkes Chamber is your source Leadership Wilkes pulls back the curtain
we’ve been, but because of where we are on local government, community services,
for networking, building relationships, and
going. This optimism is shared by the Wilkes the Wilkes school system, nonprofits, major
creating business-to-business connections.
Chamber, now celebrating its 80th year of industry, and innovative small businesses. The
Your Chamber facilitates numerous events
strengthening businesses to grow lasting program is intended to develop a group of
year-round that enable members to meet
community impact. informed, committed, and qualified individuals
and become familiar with the services and
In 1946, as soldiers returned home from ready to provide visionary leadership for
products offered by Chamber members.
WWII, North Wilkesboro and Wilkesboro Wilkes County.
In 2026, we celebrate 80 years of impact.
stood at the brink of transformation. On Wilkes Business Links (aka Leads Group)
What started in 1946 still drives our economy
January 31 of that year, 27 visionary local connects businesses to share best practices,
and spirit.
leaders formed the Wilkes Chamber of generate referrals, and support one another.
Two groups meet once a week. No member’s
Commerce, the first powerful, shared voice
occupational field conflicts with another
for both towns. Its founding vision was clear:
advance commercial, industrial, and civic Wilkes Chamber Foundation within the same group.
interests across Wilkes County; promote drives meaningful impact through Government Affairs sessions keep
youth leadership, education and national government policies and initiatives
integrity and fair business; and share valuable Chamber members informed of regional and
economic data. workforce readiness. Programs that affect local businesses.
Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, a such as the Tory Oak Project Wilkes Women in Leadership empowers
501(c)6 nonprofit organization, continues and inspires women leaders, offering
to build on those founding values by and United Teens in Action attendees the chance to learn from
championing business growth, supporting (UTA) provide our students with the experience of others while building
immersive leadership experiences relationships.
entrepreneurship, and creating strategic
opportunities that strengthen the local
that increase their knowledge Business After Hours is one of the
economy and enhance quality of life across Chamber’s premier networking events, held
Wilkes County. The Chamber also manages of Wilkes County resources and monthly and free to members.
enhance their philanthropic spirit.
the Northwest North Carolina Visitor’s Center, Business Topics @12 is a quarterly lunch
which welcomes nearly 70,000 visitors to and learn session that provides education and
Wilkes County each year. expertise that can benefit any business.
One Click Away to the Chamber Business Directory.
Scan Here and
Looking for trusted, local businesses? Start Exploring!
From restaurants and retailers to service pros and
specialists, our Wilkes Chamber of Commerce
Online Business Directory is your go-to resource for
everything our vibrant community has to offer.

The Chamber 3