I recently sat down with Cheri Grebe, the Greater EMC Chamber's Vice President of Member Opportunities, to talk about what it takes to help businesses connect, grow, and be seen. Cheri's work is simple in description and powerful in practice: she creates meaningful pathways for members to thrive by pairing the right people with the right opportunities.

What "Member Opportunities" really means

At first glance, member services can sound like a catch-all. With Cheri, it's focused and strategic. Her approach is summed up in one line she uses often: member focused, opportunity driven. That means listening to what a business wants to achieve and connecting them with specific programs, sponsorships, or leadership experiences that move the needle.

Cheri works with new members and prospects alike. She helps identify whether a business needs marketing exposure, leadership development, or a simple introduction to a complementary member. Sometimes the solution is a small sponsorship that gives visibility without a major commitment. Other times it is guiding a member toward a leadership program like the Leading Ladies Luncheon so they can build credibility inside the community.

The matchmaking mindset: turning networking anxiety into opportunity

Networking can feel daunting, especially for new business owners. Cheri described her role as one of active matchmaking: she intentionally connects people, invites them to events, and then follows up. Her style is hands-on — she "throws them in" to events and stays engaged so newcomers don’t get lost in the crowd.

"If I can get a member to thrive just by showing up to one event and meeting five, ten, 15, 20 people that they would have never met before, that's a win."
— Cheri Grebe

That personal nudging and follow-through is what turns a one-off introduction into a relationship that produces referrals, collaborations, and business growth. Cheri’s gift is helping people feel comfortable—so comfortable that shy entrepreneurs come out of their shells and start marketing themselves confidently.

Marketing help for business owners who don’t know where to start

Many new business owners excel at their craft but struggle with marketing. Cheri explained that a big part of her role is helping members understand practical ways to promote their services through Chamber sponsorships and events. The Chamber becomes an extension of a member’s marketing team: a place to test messages, get visibility, and meet potential clients.

Small, consistent exposures—like speaking at an event or sponsoring a breakfast—often produce higher return on investment than expensive, scattered advertising. Cheri finds the right-sized opportunities so businesses can be seen and heard without overcommitting.

A historic year: membership growth and stronger investment

This season has been remarkable. Membership numbers aren't just up; the quality and diversity of members have grown too. Solo entrepreneurs are joining alongside major corporations, and many members are choosing higher-level investments.

"We have a record number of new members this year, and the diversity of them is from the solo entrepreneur all the way up to these major corporations."
— Cheri Grebe

The shift matters because it changes the dynamics of opportunity. Larger investments create more programming and sponsorship options. More engaged members means a richer network where introductions are more meaningful and partnerships happen more often.

Why this growth matters

• Greater visibility: With diverse members comes broader cross-promotion and audience reach.
• Stronger programming: Increased investment funds events and leadership opportunities that benefit everyone.
• Higher value per membership: Members are getting more return for their dollars through authentic connections and targeted opportunities.

Actionable takeaways for business owners

1. Show up to one event and meet people intentionally. A single morning can open doors you did not expect.
2. Be specific about what you want to accomplish and ask for introductions that align with that goal.
3. Start small with sponsorships that increase visibility without a huge commitment.
4. Use the Chamber as a marketing extension—leverage programs, luncheons, and leadership opportunities to build credibility.
5. Follow up after meetings. Relationships are developed by consistent touchpoints.

Cheri reminded me that even seasoned networkers feel overwhelmed sometimes. The differentiator is persistence and a willingness to be introduced. Let others do some of the matchmaking for you.

Final thoughts

Helping members succeed is about far more than organizing events. It is about crafting pathways for people to meet, exchange value, and grow. If you are looking to expand your reach, consider practical, relationship-driven strategies: show up, ask for introductions, and invest at the level that helps you reach your goals.

Want to stay connected?

Follow the Greater EMC Chamber on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and visit gemcchamber.com to learn more. You can also subscribe to Morning Impact through Community Impact at communityimpact.com for regular local business updates.

Thanks for reading! Keep adding value and making a difference.

— Tracie Kamenoff