Main Street Moments Spotlights the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce

Downtown Athens continues to grow, adapt, and thrive thanks to the organizations working behind the scenes to support local businesses and community connections. On this week’s Main Street Moments, Main Street Athens sat down with Rob Preston, CEO of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, to talk about what’s new at the Chamber and highlight some of the long-standing traditions that continue to shape the community.

A More Connected, Digital Chamber

One of the most exciting updates shared during the conversation was the Chamber’s transition to a new, fully interactive website. The updated platform allows Chamber members to directly connect with one another online, making it easier than ever to find services, collaborate with fellow business owners, and build professional relationships within the community.

The website also allows users to purchase tickets for Chamber events directly online — eliminating the need for checks or in-person payments. From networking events to major annual celebrations, everything is now housed in one seamless, user-friendly system designed to make Chamber membership more accessible and efficient.

Welcoming a New Face

The Chamber is also excited to welcome Shannon Willis as its new Membership Services Director. With several years of customer service experience in the Athens area, Willis brings strong community knowledge and a welcoming presence to the Chamber team. Community members are encouraged to stop by the Chamber office and introduce themselves.

Events That Bring the Community Together

The Athens Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate leadership, entrepreneurship, and community involvement.

Chamber Annual Meeting – April 23

A long-standing community tradition, the Chamber’s Annual Meeting features awards, a catered dinner, and recognition of outstanding individuals. One of the most meaningful traditions is the selection of the Mother of the Year. Past recipients gather once a year to reconnect, share stories, and vote on the next honoree — a moment Rob Preston described as deeply special for both the Chamber and the women involved.

Benefit Dinner – July 16 (19th Annual)

Open to the public, this year’s Benefit Dinner will feature Dale Earnhardt Jr. as the guest speaker. Proceeds from the evening help fund the Chamber’s fall entrepreneurship program, Shark Chamber.

Shark Chamber

Modeled after the popular television show Shark Tank, Shark Chamber is a competitive program where local entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas for a chance to win up to $20,000 in prizes. The process begins with a summer application, followed by interviews with Chamber leadership and judges. Finalists then present their ideas at a live event hosted at Tennessee Wesleyan University, with every finalist receiving a prize.

Chamber Before Hours

Held on the third Thursday of each month, this morning networking event is open to both Chamber members and non-members. It provides a relaxed setting for local business owners and professionals to connect over breakfast and conversation.

Staying Connected

Community members can learn more or get involved with the Chamber by visiting www.athenschamber.org, emailing [email protected] or [email protected], or calling 423-745-0334.

Main Street Moments will continue next week with a conversation featuring Sandra Kinney and Larry Eaton, sharing updates on the progress of the Robert E. Lee Hotel in Downtown Athens.

To stay up to date on what’s happening in Downtown Athens, follow Main Street Moments on Spotify and keep an eye on Main Street Athens’ social media channels.

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