What's the Purpose of the Ely Chamber of Commerce?

To promote the economic, civic and social welfare of the people of
the Ely area.

Your chamber at work:

• Hosts national and international writers
• Prints and distributes 80,000 Ely area vacation guides
• Prints and distributes 25,000 Ely area winter brochures
• Obtained $25,000 in IRRRA grant funds for area year-round promotion
• Obtained $20,000 from the Minnesota Office of Tourism Partnership Program for area promotion
• Lodging tax income increased 169% from 1991 to 2000
• Coordinates the expenditure of the local lodging tax (approx. $180,000) through the Ely Area Tourism Bureau - national TV and magazine ads
• Board representation on MN Arrowhead Association and Northern Lights Tourism Alliance
• Staffing the Ely Chamber office year-round with two full-time and four part-time employees
• Maintains a close working relationship with the Minnesota Office of Tourism
• Assists with the coordination of Ely area events
• Increased membership by 41% over the past 3 years! Total membership - 250

History:

The activities of the Ely Chamber of Commerce actually began with the formation of the Business Men's Association in 1908. Concerns at that time centered around retail trade, industrial development, taxes, roads and public health. A standing tourist committee was appointed in 1911 and the Ely Commercial Club developed in 1916. The Chamber of Commerce's present constitution and bylaws were adopted in 1959. The organization is of nonprofit status and is comprised of businesses, institutions, professionals, clubs, organizations and individuals. The organization operates year round with a seven member board, an office staff of 6 and 250 members.

How is the Chamber funded?

The Operating Account - operation of the organization - payroll, building, supplies, equipment, etc. is funded primarily by our membership

The Promotional Account - driven by projects that fund themselves - Harvest Moon Festival, "Smile, You're In Ely," Vacation Guide, etc.

The Projects Account are funds which have been dedicated to specific future projects - capital funds.

Merchants Account receives its funds from:
Blueberry/Art Festival - Main source of revenue for the merchant activities.

Tourism Bureau receives its funds from:
The Lodging Tax is the main source of revenue. Dedicated solely for
the promotion of the Ely area.
Grants - Possible through the Minnesota Office of Tourism and IRRRA.

What local projects does the Ely Chamber of Commerce sponsor and/or co-sponsor?

• Annual Blueberry/Art Festival
• Fall Harvest Moon Festival
• Summer Northwoods Presenter Programs
• Smile You're in Ely
• 4th of July Fireworks
• Voyageur Winter Festival
• Winter Blast Celebrity Ride
• Loony Day
• Christmas Lighting and Decorating in the business district
• Nordic Association Cross Country Ski Trails
• Local Snowmobile Trail Grooming
• Summer Flower Baskets
• American Legion Baseball Tournament