Reno + Sparks Chamber Helps Member Businesses Grow and Flourish
While competition is part of business, so is collaboration. By focusing on connection and community, the business ecosystem in the Reno-Sparks region continues to flourish.
The Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce plays a critical role in fostering community among business leaders from companies of all sizes and industries.
“The organization was first incorporated in 1919 and has grown to advocate for, inform and connect over 2,300 businesses and organizations that provide employment to over 120,000 individuals in our community,” says Ann Silver, CEO of the Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber member businesses range from larger companies, like Tesla, Panasonic and Greater Nevada Credit Union, to smaller operations. The Cheese Board, for one, is a local bistro and catering company with locations in MidTown and South Reno. The Chamber has been a great resource for Caitlin Kintop Fletcher and Krista Kintop Phillips, sisters who own The Cheese Board.
“The Chamber has helped us connect with other local businesses, access valuable educational opportunities and stay engaged with the community,” Fletcher says. “It reminds us that we’re part of a larger network of local businesses who all share the same commitment to supporting one another and the community at large.”
The Game Plan
The Reno + Sparks Chamber of Commerce achieves its mission to inform, advocate and connect through multiple measures. This encompasses issuing a written public policy platform, hosting classes and workshops, and sending the weekly Chamber Briefing e-newsletter to thousands of recipients in the region.
The education initiatives include the Emerging Leaders Program, which boasts 1,200 graduates over 40 years. The Chamber also offers Green Business Certification and Green Dining Certification classes. Its CHAMBER EDU online video series features local professionals who provide free instruction on business-related topics.
The Chamber hosts monthly in-person events, including Coffee & Commerce and Business After Hours. “Both provide hundreds of members the free opportunity to hear timely and relevant business announcements, network and make business announcements and important connections,” Silver says.
Members can take advantage of several Chamber-only benefits, including a health plan for businesses with two to 50 employees, a pooled 401(k) retirement program and a pretax child care program. In addition, there’s an annual Business Expo & Career Fair each May at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, with free booths to showcase its members.
As a 501(c)(6) nonprofit, the Chamber relies solely on membership dues and partner contributions for funding. It also houses The Center for Nonprofit Business, a 501(c)(3) that assists hundreds of local nonprofits on grant writing and compliance, board development, fundraising and communications.
“I hope that with our vibrant economy, location, climate and business-friendly regulations, we continue to see new businesses start and grow throughout our community,” Silver says.
Amplifying Voices
The cumulative effects of the Chamber’s support are invaluable for area companies, including The Cheese Board.
“The Chamber also gives us a platform to amplify our voice, particularly when it comes to advocating for the needs of small businesses,” Fletcher says.
While the sisters have owned The Cheese Board since 2017, it was founded in 1981 by Debbie Branby. Fletcher and Phillips started working there in 2005 and 2006, respectively, and the concept expanded from a small cheese shop to a full bistro and catering service.
“As sisters, we’ve always shared a strong bond and a passion for food and hospitality,” Phillips says. “In 2017, after seeing the deep connection The Cheese Board had with the community, we decided to take the leap and purchase the business. Our goal was to carry on the tradition Debbie started, while infusing it with our own love for the community.”
The Cheese Board’s second location opened in 2023, and the sisters see more opportunities to expand across the Silver State. Born and raised in Reno, Fletcher and Phillips have a special connection to the people. In particular, they feel like their employees are like family and also deserve credit for The Cheese Shop’s success.
“As Reno grows, we strive to preserve that small-town hospitality and offer warmth, kindness and generosity in everything we do,” Phillips says. “It’s an honor to serve our community, and we’re proud to be part of a city where people truly take care of one another, as does the Chamber.”
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