Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce

The Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce is ready. They are ready to face today's business and finance challenges and to shed the past of three former Chamber of Commerce's histories. Formed in 2012 with new businesses, new members and a new focus, the Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce objectives and purpose is to support, build and sustain Akwesasne's commerce and trade. The current Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce members are focused on the present and building from here.

Their main goal is to support one another by networking, sharing ideas and finding real solutions that work between small businesses in Akwesasne. There are many issues that face Akwesasne businesses such as whether to file taxes, trying to provide insurance and benefits for their employees, and moving away from being a "stepping stone job" and establishing themselves as long term employers.

The Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce recently held a "Meet and Greet" introducing themselves to the surrounding commerce organizations such as the Malone Chamber, Massena Chamber, North Country Chamber, and the St. Lawrence Chamber of Commerce. It was the first time all chambers had ever met in one room. As well, it was acknowledged this area would be identified as the "Northern Crescent," an arc extending from Watertown to Plattsburgh. Many ideas and suggestions were shared including identifying the same challenges shared by all Chambers and sharing information between Chambers, possibly establishing a Mohawk Gift Shop in downtown Malone, and working with border agents to encourage them to help promote our region. The Chambers have agreed to meet once a quarter and their next combined Chambers meeting will be in January.

The Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce (ACC) experiences many of the same challenges other Chambers face. The ACC plan to explore the idea of suitable training for people interested in going into the business sector and for those already operating a business. Providing better service to all who do business in Akwesasne is a priority to the Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce. Just as important in providing "good service" training is educating others about Akwesasne and reeducating ourselves to give Akwesasne businesses a chance. "No business is perfect; our goal is to improve, especially in the area of providing great service to our customers."

Most recently, with the release of Mohawk Council of Akwesasne's Economic Leakage Study, the study compels Akwesasne businesses to re-examine strategies and business plans. Many of MCA's Leakage Study's Strategic Recommendations are the same goals and objectives of the Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce; to promote growth of the economy within the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory, improve economic conditions, increase the size of the total economy or reduce the economic leakage.

The Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce regularly takes part in "giving back to the community by participating in the Santa Claus Parade, the Snye Easter Egg Hunt, Cruising for Kids and the Winter Carnival Ace to King Tournament. The ACC meets the first Thursday of every month at 6pm and they hold a working session on the fourth Wednesday of every month from noon to 1pm. If you currently have a business in Akwesasne, and it's estimated there are over 300 plus here (including artisans), or thinking of starting a business and need a little support, you are welcome to join their meetings. ACC meetings are held at Swamp's Automotive.