- You'll have an opportunity to do joint ventures with other local businesses, such as cooperative advertising or trunk shows.

- Your business name can be associated with improving your community, since Chambers of Commerce generally work on civic improvement, legislation favoring local businesses, and economic development.

- You may have access to mentors who can help you develop your business; or you may be able to serve as a mentor to someone else.

These are just a few of the many ways your area's Chamber of Commerce can give you access to a valuable networking and marketing system. You can find your local Chamber of Commerce in the business listings of your phone book.

Rena Klingenberg is a jewelry artist and small business owner. Her websites, http://www.trade-show-booth-display.com and http://www.home-jewelry-business-success-tips.com, are filled with new success tips and articles to help other small businesses market their products.