• DOES THE CREATIVE COMMUNITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ORGANIZE THEIR OWN MARKETS AND FESTIVALS?

Our 2 main areas of focus are fair business advocacy for our members, and for added access to arts, markets, and music in all communities. Our workshops, networking, and events are currently planned around these. Should the need for organizing events and markets arise in the future the Creative Community Chamber may choose to do so, but at this time there are many organizers across the country who effectively host and plan events.

We aim to enhance the Organizers network by highlighting the Organizer, Municipalities, and Sponsored events by sending out invitations to our Creators member network when “feature” crafters, artists, and talents have the opportunity to work and travel to new areas. While supporting local is always a goal, adding some “Feature, Makers” and “Guest Artists” keeps regular markets exciting for the public.

• I DO NOT HAVE A MEMBERSHIP – CAN I STILL ATTEND YOUR WORKSHOPS?

While we may occasionally offer workshops or seminars that are open to the public, our regular workshops are for Creative Community Chamber of Commerce Members only.

• I DO NOT HAVE A MEMBERSHIP – CAN I STILL ATTEND YOUR NETWORKING EVENTS?

Our networking events are for members only and cannot be attended by the public. If you would like to attend a networking event, you can apply for membership.

• I LIVE IN A DIFFERENT STATE THAN MOST OF YOUR MEMBERS, CAN I  STILL JOIN?

YES!  While we have recently opened membership to join, we are continuously adding to our network across the nation. As states and locations continue to expand, and community funding sources become available in specific areas, we anticipate the opportunity to grow by adding additional Creative Community Chamber – local chapters, so our advocacy and mission can continue to grow across the country.

Artificial intelligence (AI) may be transforming our world in many ways, it cannot replace the need for in-person human connection and community building. Outdoor markets, arts, music, entrepreneurship, mobile economies, and growing are all essential activities that bring people together, foster creativity and innovation, and promote a sense of belonging and shared identity. By supporting these activities, we can help to build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to navigate the challenges of the future.

Human Connection: AI has also led to an increase in remote work and virtual communication, which can make it harder for people to form meaningful relationships and feel connected to their communities. This makes in-person interactions even more important for building and maintaining social connections.

CommUnity: Outdoor markets all offer unique opportunities for people to learn new skills, share knowledge, and collaborate with others. These activities foster a sense of community and encourage people to work together towards common goals, which can help to strengthen social bonds and build stronger, more resilient communities. These activities are often deeply rooted in local cultures and traditions and help to preserve and celebrate the unique identities and histories of different communities. Supporting mobile economies and outdoor art, music and market activities, helps to ensure that our communities remain vibrant, diverse, and connected, even in the face of technological change.

Well Being: Outdoor markets also have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. They provide opportunities for people to engage in activities that they enjoy, which can boost mood and reduce stress. They also offer a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can be particularly important for those who may feel isolated or disconnected from their communities.

These activities often take place in outdoor settings, which provide numerous health benefits such as increased exposure to sunlight and fresh air. This can help to boost the immune system, improve mood, and reduce the risk of certain health conditions.

Environment: They have a positive impact on the environment. By supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices, these activities can help to reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote biodiversity.

Tourism: Outdoor markets have economic benefits. They provide opportunities for small businesses and local entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, which can help to stimulate local economies and create new job opportunities. These activities often attract visitors from outside the community, which can help to boost tourism and generate additional revenue for local businesses. This can be particularly important for rural communities, which may rely heavily on agriculture and tourism for their economic well-being.

Supply Chains: By supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices, these activities can help to create more resilient and sustainable economies. They can also help to reduce dependence on global supply chains, which can be vulnerable to disruptions and fluctuations in the global economy.

Economy: Outdoor markets have numerous benefits for individuals, communities, and economies. They provide opportunities for human connection, community building, creativity, innovation, mental health and well-being, environmental sustainability, and economic development. By supporting these activities, we can help to build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to navigate the challenges of the future.

Culture & Traditions: The increase in AI has also led to a growing awareness of the importance of preserving and promoting local cultures and traditions. Outdoor markets, arts, music, entrepreneurship, and farming are all deeply rooted in local cultures and histories, and can help to preserve and celebrate the unique identities of different communities. These activities provide opportunities for people to learn about and engage with different cultures, which can help to promote diversity, understanding, and tolerance. They can also help to combat the negative effects of globalization and homogenization, which can erode local cultures and traditions.

Outdoor markets, arts, music, entrepreneurship, and farming can also play an important role in promoting social justice and equity. By supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs, these activities can help to create more inclusive and equitable economies. They can also provide opportunities for marginalized groups to showcase their talents and skills, and to participate more fully in their communities.