The Rowan County Chamber of Commerce announced that the organization has qualified for a national award through the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

The award is called the ACCE Chamber of the Year award and recognizes chambers for being above the national average in their 2015 membership and non-dues income categories. The association’s Chamber of the Year is the only award recognizing the dual role chambers have in supporting businesses and leading communities.

Chambers that win the Chamber of the Year designation have not only demonstrated success in business leadership and organizational strength, but also have made an impact on key community priorities such as education, transportation, health care and cultural vitality, a news release said.

The Chamber of the Year competition is a three-step process. The Rowan Chamber has qualified for the award and is now invited to complete an application highlighting chamber successes. The finalist will be interviewed and a winner will be announced at the association’s conference in August.

“We are honored to have qualified for this national award,” said Elaine Spalding, Chamber president. “We have an active board of directors, wonderful volunteers, an engaged membership and a hard-working staff.”

The Rowan Chamber is a not-for-profit business advocacy organization with over 850 member firms. Benefits include business advocacy, member referrals, community development, leadership training and networking events. For more information, contact the Rowan Chamber at 704-633-4221 or info@rowanchamber.com.