Our Story
Who We Are
Your Engine for Growth in the Heart of New York City: The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce is the borough's premier organization dedicated to empowering businesses, strengthening our local economy, and ensuring that New York remains the world's most exciting and opportunity-rich place to do business.
We help, connect, and fight for the 125,000+ businesses across Manhattan, which is the heart of New York's economy. Collectively, these businesses employ 2.4 million people and generate $939 billion in annual GDP.
Our Mission: Our core mission is to ignite growth, champion innovation, and advocate tirelessly for the interests of our diverse business community. We are committed to creating a dynamic ecosystem where businesses can thrive, connect, and contribute to Manhattan's unparalleled economic landscape.
What We Do
In the fast-paced, ever-evolving landscape of New York City, the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce serves as a vital partner, advocate, and catalyst for success. Our key offerings include:
Powerful Advocacy & Political Influence: We are a formidable force in City Hall and Albany, wielding significant political influence to shape pro-business policies, reduce regulatory burdens, and ensure a favorable economic climate. We actively engage with elected officials and decision-makers, ensuring the voice of Manhattan's businesses is heard and acted upon.
Unparalleled Networking & Connections: We facilitate strategic connections through a robust calendar of events, industry-specific councils, and networking opportunities, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to forge meaningful partnerships and explore collaborative ventures.
Essential Resources & Business Support: We provide our members with critical resources, including educational workshops, business development programs, access to vital market insights, and exclusive discounts designed to help them navigate challenges, enhance their capabilities, and achieve sustainable growth.
Community & Economic Development: Beyond direct member services, we play a pivotal role in the broader economic development of Manhattan. We champion initiatives that attract investment, foster job creation, and enhance the borough's global competitiveness, contributing to the health and dynamism of New York City.
Become a member: Join us and become part of the influential network that is shaping the future of commerce in New York City.
Our History
The Chamber was incorporated in 1920 as the Yorkville Chamber of Commerce.
It was founded by 11 prominent merchants in the Yorkville neighborhood on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, which at that time was predominantly populated by German-born immigrants.
Their mission was “to foster and improve the trade and commerce of Yorkville…and to promote the prosperity and general welfare thereof.”
This was particularly important in the wake of World War I when a wave of anti-German sentiment had spread throughout the United States.
Over the decades the Chamber expanded to encompass Mid-East Manhattan, then Mid-Manhattan and finally, in 1997, the entire borough: the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.
The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Community Benefit Fund was established in 1994. The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Foundation was established in 1998.
