Noblesville Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 90th Anniversary
The Noblesville Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 90th anniversary on Nov. 8. While its role and location have changed since 1935, the core values of the organization have remained the same: supporting local businesses and helping the community to grow.
Today, the Chamber helps its members through networking events, offering business referrals to local residents, advocating for small businesses, and providing scholarships and grants for those entering the workforce.
President and CEO, Bob DuBois, has been with the Chamber for more than a decade, and he’s proud to continue the work of those who came before him. In the past, the Chamber’s office was in an old train car. During the winter holiday season, DuBois’ mentor and former Chamber director Garrick Mallery used to play Santa in the Noblesville Christmas parade, and members would decorate the streets for the holidays and put up lights. While these tasks are now handled by the city, the Chamber’s purpose remains the same — to support and uplift the community.
“The Noblesville Chamber plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of Noblesville,” says Chairman of the Board for the Chamber, David Hyatt. “Bob and his team of dedicated staff work tirelessly to connect leaders in our community to ensure Noblesville continues to grow and thrive.”
DuBois leads a small staff with only four full time members, but they accomplish a lot, including their “state of” series, which keeps people informed about current events, policies, and trends in Noblesville and Hamilton County. The State of the Schools address will be in November, and the State of the City address took place in the brand new arena with more than 1,000 in attendance.
“From celebrating long-standing businesses and welcoming new ones to hosting impactful events, the Chamber continues to foster connection and growth throughout Noblesville,” says Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. “This anniversary is a testament to their ongoing commitment to our community and its success. I’m especially grateful for their partnership each year in hosting the State of the City address at venues like Embassy Suites, Ruoff Music Center, and The Arena at Innovation Mile.”
DuBois says that much of the work the Chamber does is behind the scenes, such as keeping good relationships with public policymakers.
“We’re often a conduit of information between the business community and elected officials and policymakers,” he explains. “We have the ability to filter some of that information directly to the people who can make a difference. A lot of business growth is tied to residential growth, so we like to connect new residents with local businesses, and help them find a sense of belonging with some of our networks.”
The Chamber supports a series of networks that are based on common interests, industries, or geographic locations. Women in Noblesville is its longest running network, and features regular informational event series like “Coffee and Connect” and “Lunch and Learn.”
DuBois’ predecessor, Sharon McMahon, retired as president and CEO after 14 years of service.
“In early 2001, I had an idea for an event which would bring several Noblesville businesses together and invite the public to come in and have a “Taste of Noblesville.” We had 20 businesses scheduled to present,” McMahon recalls.
The event was somewhat stymied by “monsoon”-like weather, and former President Bush declaring war shortly after the events of 9/11. Despite low attendance, the event continued to grow and become successful.
“It’s a major Hamilton County event now, thanks to Bob’s leadership and all those businesses and patrons who have made it possible,” she says.
“The chamber is a volunteer organization that formed for the betterment of Noblesville and Hamilton County 90 years ago and has evolved and adjusted to the times throughout that period, but its core strength is that civic spirit of Noblesville business owners and leaders. There’s a place for everyone to belong in our organization,” DuBois adds.
For more information, visit them online at noblesvillechamber.com or call 317-773-0086.
