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

Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce Membership plaque beside large ribbon-cutting ceremonial scissors with a large red bow on top 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

Signature Events

The Chamber gathers business professionals, dignitaries, and community leaders annually to honor and recognize the successes of our member businesses, organizations, and individuals. Not only is this event continually the largest annual business gathering in Natchitoches, but it also serves as the Chamber’s annual meeting.

2024-25 Category Winners

Excellence in Start-Up: Rolling Hills Ministries Thrift Store
Excellence in Non-Profit: Ben D. Johnson Educational Center
Excellence in Online Presence: NSU Marketing & Branding
Excellence in Health & Wellness: Trinity Integrated Health & Wellness
Excellence in Medical Services: Natchitoches Regional Medical Center
Excellence in Food & Beverage: Sweetie's Bar-B-Q
Excellence in Entertainment: NSU Creative & Performing Arts Department (CAPA)
Excellence in Professional Services: Archie's Paint & Body Shop
Excellence in Public Services: Natchitoches Parish Library
Excellence in Retail: Cane River Kitchenware
Excellence in Lodging: Andrew Morris House
Excellence in Financial Services: First Federal Bank of Louisiana
Excellence in Industrial Production: Lott Oil Company

2024-25 Individual Honorees

Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Otis Barnum
Go Natchitoches Award: Henry & Debbie Taylor
Ambassador of the Year: Barbara Leech
NYP 4 Under 40: Alexa Bernard-Conday, Brittany Barton, Holly Guillory, Tiffany Woods
Outgoing Chamber Chairman: David Clary
Outgoing Ambassador Chair: India Rhodes

Not your mama’s job fair, this workforce summit draws hundreds of k-12 students and traditional job seekers to learn about a multitude of career opportunities in the region, hear from keynote speakers on the soft skills needed to land and keep a job, and explore career paths in the top three industries by employment in Natchitoches Parish: manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality/tourism.

Employer Commitment Form - April 1-2, 2025

By completing the Employer Commitment Form above, your organization is agreeing to attend both days, April 1st and 2nd, of the Work Natchitoches Summit in 2025. Booth fee for employers is $150 per booth, but booth rental is included in sponsorship tiers of $500 or more. For sponsorship information, email Brittany@GoNatchitoches.com today.

Young Professionals from across the state gather in historic downtown Natchitoches to strengthen their leadership skills and network with other like-minded individuals. Breakout speakers offer a variety of professional development topics geared toward today’s young professionals.

Each year, the Chamber hosts a State of the Union Address on a specific topic impacting the regional economy. Subject matter experts share data, accomplishments, challenges, and insights into the future of their field with local, regional, and state leaders and dignitaries.

A+ Coalition Community Partners work together to welcome new teachers to the Natchitoches Parish School Board each August with Natchitoches area information and goodies from participating partners. We know that if they feel welcomed, supported, and informed about community resources, they are more likely to thrive.

This nighttime race is a whole new way to experience the City of Lights! Prizes are awarded to winners in each age bracket as well as those with the most Christmas spirit. Don’t be surprised if you see Santa, Frosty, or the Grinch out for a jog! Proceeds from this event benefit the A+ Coalition.

Members gather annually for an evening of holiday cheer, upscale eats, and specialty drinks. This festive gathering is a great opportunity to network with the business community, celebrate another year together, and support the Chamber of Commerce Foundation.