Who We Are

#GoNatchitoches Mindset

The #GoNatchitoches project is a coalition between the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association, Cane River National Heritage Area, the Natchitoches Parish Tourism Commission, Natchitoches Main Street, and the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce.

Living the #GoNatchitoches mindset means taking a pledge to Support Local: shop local, eat local, promote local, and encourage others to take the pledge with you.

Our Story

Since 1919, the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC) has served as the leading organization to support businesses throughout the parish. For over a century, the Chamber has adapted and evolved to better meet the needs of its membership and the community at large. Today, as an independent, not-for-profit 501(c)6 organization, the Chamber represents over 330 businesses and their 8,000+ employees from across the region. Our network of businesses, community members, and community organizations work to develop a flourishing business community, thereby expanding the economy of Natchitoches Parish. The Chamber provides key programs and services to businesses and is an invaluable resource and a united voice for the business community. As our community and region continue to grow, our organization plays an increasingly pivotal role in developing and improving the economic vitality and business environment critical to the success of our parish. We are future-focused in our pursuit of a thriving region.

Mission

Champion Business. Connect Community. Cultivate Growth.

Vision

To become the fastest growing parish with the richest culture per square mile in North Louisiana, where all residents are equipped and inspired to build prosperity.

Guiding Principles

The 2022 Chamber Board of Directors, together with a Chamber consultant out of Austin, embarked on a journey to create a three-year strategic plan that would inform our decisions on programming, positions, and initiatives. Once finalized, the 2023 board then decided the Chamber needed an outward-facing set of guiding principles and position statements that would serve as a public testament to why we do what we do and why we encourage others to join us in our mission.

• We believe in policies that will positively impact business retention and expansion.
• We believe that government leadership must prioritize growing our local business and economy, as reflected in its culture, policies, and budget.
• We believe in providing a strong infrastructure to support growing local business and our economy.
• We believe regulations should be streamlined and reduced to facilitate business growth.
• We believe a strong talent development system should be created that supports our current workforce needs and establishes a talent pipeline to meet future workforce demands.
• We believe that a diverse workforce housing inventory with desirable homes of every type and for every income bracket is vital for workforce recruitment and retention.
• We believe in diversity of thought that is achieved through diversity of membership and leadership and brings about barrier-breaking inclusivity.
• We believe that to maintain a positive quality of life, public health and safety must be a priority for citizens and businesses.
• We believe in Natchitoches Parish and the power of celebrating and supporting its businesses, culture, and community.

A Letter from the President

Thank you for your interest in the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, the largest network of business and industry professionals, elected officials, and community leaders in Natchitoches Parish. The Chamber serves each member differently according to their individual needs. Through a variety of programming and technology, our goal is for you to find your place in our business climate, grow your business through advertising and networking opportunities, and impact your community through Chamber initiatives. As you consider your budget and strategic plan for growth, I would urge you to find the membership level that best suits your needs. I would be happy to discuss the many ways in which the Chamber can serve you.

In Good Business,
Laura Lyles
Chamber President & CEO

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