Chamber Foundations Are a National Best Practice

More than a local initiative, Chamber foundations have become a national best practice—empowering chambers across the country to tackle big-picture challenges like workforce readiness, small business resilience, and inclusive economic growth. By establishing our Foundation 14 years ago, we positioned ourselves ahead of the curve, recognizing early on that a 501(c)(3) arm would allow us to access new funding, support community-focused programs, and deepen our long-term impact. Today, with nearly 90% of chambers either operating or creating foundations, it’s clear that this model isn’t just innovative—it’s essential.

The Chamber's Foundation actively secures grant funding, essential for programs like JOCO WORKS, where over $20,000 is specifically reserved for 501(c)3 entities. Annually, the Foundation supports educators through the Flame for Learning program, distributing more than $22,000 to Johnston County teachers. Additionally, it funds scholarships for small businesses to engage in Leadership Johnston. Notably, during the COVID pandemic, a generous donation enabled the Foundation to provide critical grants to businesses in need. 

Over the past two years the Foundation has worked closely with the Chamber’s Economic Development Committee. The Economic Development committee has identified needs in our region and the Foundation has been able to pursue grant funding. In 2024, the Foundation received funds from Duke Energy Foundation to provide Facade Improvement grants to businesses in the town of Princeton. The two organizations are currently collaborating on funding for lighting improvements for main street businesses in Pine Level, as well as a business resiliency program countywide. 

In 2018, the Triangle East Economic Development Foundation assumed ownership of the historic Yelvington-Lee House, which serves as the home of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. This transition enables the Foundation to pursue grant opportunities specifically for the preservation and maintenance of the building—funding that would not be accessible if the property remained under Chamber ownership.

Although both organizations share the Triangle East name and the same physical address, they are legally distinct entities. The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) organization governed by a 29-member board of directors and supported by a professional staff of six. The Triangle East Economic Development Foundation, on the other hand, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit governed by its own board of nine directors and operates without a dedicated staff.

Some Chamber members choose to support the Foundation by contributing an optional 10 percent of their dues to the Foundation. Additionally, community members are also welcome to invest in the Foundation’s mission by making checks payable to The Triangle East Economic Development Foundation.