FAQ

Central Virginia Business Coalition is one of many wonderful local opportunities to gain support for your business, but we are different from local Chambers in the following respect: We are not affiliated with the local government in any manner; we do not focus on economic development or tourism. In Richmond, you will find our legislative efforts are rarely the same.

We appreciate and support what these organizations bring to our community. We are proud members of all five (5) Chambers and support the work they do in our business community. We are not an “either – or” option for businesses. We hope that our services complement what the Chambers offer, but we do not directly compete with them.

Because of our affiliation with the Virginia Retail Merchants Association, one important difference is that while these local organizations focus on issues and events at the local level, the VRMA is able to focus its work on the state and national levels. In this way, we are able to compliment the work of local groups and provide a full range of service to those members who join both the VRMA and the local retail merchants association in their area.

Within the body of our membership, there are business individuals and leaders volunteering to be “GEMS” – “Giving Excellent Member Service.” These individuals believe in the mission of CVABC. They are local business owners, managers or employees offering their time and resources to support our mission. Our staff and GEMS Team regularly attend and/or participate in various activities and events in the community.

The CVABC Board of Directors is made up of local business leaders from the CVABC community. These are a group of respected community members who have a vested interest in our local community and who give of their time and talent through association with various groups and associations.

We have sponsored events by local charities, particularly those that bring people into the local service area. We want people to see what the Greater Lynchburg area has to offer in the way of restaurants, hotels, shopping, arts, culture and recreation.

CVABC has changed over the years as the business community has changed, and technology changed the way we live and work. We went from being the credit bureau to now being an association of support and affordable services for local businesses.

We offer marketing consultation and support, co-op advertising advantages (radio, print, billboards, TV), affordable education and workshops, representation on important issue affecting businesses in Richmond and on local levels, respectable referrals for businesses through testimonials and reviews, as well as member referrals, and more. We held our first Annual Non-Profit Giving Fair in 2019, which was a big success. We annually look at what we have done, and build on that for future events and opportunities. For more details visit the “Member Benefits” tab, or call our office to set up a convenient time to meet for a one-on-one consultation.

Yes. The Internal Revenue Service allows dues for agencies such as a Chamber of Commerce or similar Trade Association to be deducted as a business expense. CVABC falls within that category.

CLICK HERE to see a copy of the Internal Revenue Service’s Pub. 535 – Business Expenses, or ask your professional accountant.

There are several ways to become a member partner with the CVABC.

1. You may complete the online application and pay by credit card.
2. Stop by our office at 147 Mill Ridge Rd, Suite 209 at pick up an application and member packet.
3. Call us (434) 528-1732) and ask for a membership packet & application to be mailed or delivered to you.

Any legitimate business is eligible to join the Central Virginia Business Coalition. We are grateful to have a diverse group of members, both large and small, that support economic growth and sustainability of our local businesses.