6 Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce Events You Must Attend  

Courtesy of the Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce

Joining the Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce definitely has its benefits, especially for those who value networking and expanding their business-to-business contacts. These aims are easily achieved by attending regular chamber meetings and experiencing the many events the chamber organizes for members throughout the year. These serve as accessible platforms for members to connect, learn and collaborate with other local businesses.

“We place great value on the cross-promotion and collaboration opportunities that arise from these engagements,” says Courtney Meredith, a chamber member and chief creative officer for Design On Edge, a creative agency in Reno.

“Going beyond just exchanging business cards, we strive to create mutually beneficial opportunities that enhance the growth and presence of our team, clients and the community as a whole.”

Whether you’re already involved with the chamber or are eager to join, here are six must-attend events to add to your calendar.

1. Coffee & Commerce

Engage with fellow chamber members in a more casual setting at this networking event that takes place on the third Thursday of every month at the chamber offices from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Members can expect free coffee and snacks, special presentations from businesses and organizations, and a chance to share exciting announcements.

2. Business After Hours

This monthly event gives members an opportunity to go to another member’s business — after hours, as the name suggests. Each month, a different business will host a gathering, usually with libations, refreshments and music, so others can see their business. It’s a great chance to enjoy different venues, get exposed to other types of businesses and expand business connections.

3. ALLIANCE

This annual breakfast event brings members and notable speakers together and covers a range of topics.

“The energy in the room at the ALLIANCE event is always inspiring. Business leaders from diverse industries come together, sharing insights and opportunities that help strengthen the local economy,” says Brandon Bianco, chamber member and founder of film production company Dreampilot Films in Sparks.

“As a business owner for the past nine years, I’ve found immense value in attending chamber events, particularly ALLIANCE.”

4. Biggest Business Expo & Career Fair

This event is a perfect meeting place for businesses to connect and for employers to meet prospective employees. Held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, the annual expo truly showcases the vibrant commerce community that exists in the Reno and Sparks region, and it makes it easy for attendees to make meaningful connections. The event, which is free to the public, features 500-plus booths encompassing a wide spectrum of industries.

“It is a fantastic day highlighting the diverse offerings of our community, ranging from HR services to unique hospitality happenings,” Meredith says.

5. Citizenship Classes

In partnership with the Northern Nevada Literacy Council, the Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce offers free citizenship classes to help individuals prepare to take the U.S. citizenship exam. This is a 10-week course with a curriculum that has been carefully created to provide participants with everything they need to ace their exam. The program, funded by a Nevada Humanities grant, covers literacy, civic knowledge and more.

6. Ribbon Cuttings

The chamber is more than happy to help facilitate a ribbon cutting. These ribbon cuttings are a special way to mark the occasion.

“Celebrating new ventures and expansions not only fosters community but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and innovation driving our ‘Biggest Little City,’” Bianco says. “These ribbon cuttings are opportunities to stay engaged and keep a pulse on the ever-evolving Reno business landscape.”