The Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce conducts Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies as a benefit to Chamber Partners. Ceremonies can be performed by themselves or as a part of an open house or grand opening. The Chamber is happy to help! Below is the information that you will need.

WHO QUALIFIES:

Current Partners of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce who are:

  • In their first year of opening a business
  • In the first year of purchasing an existing business
  • An existing business that has moved to a new location or remodeled

WHAT THE CHAMBER DOES:

  • Provides the “giant scissors”
  • Provides red ribbon (if want different color, you must provide)
  • Promotes event on social media
  • Includes event in weekly email to all Chamber Partners
  • Attends the event and takes pictures and shares across various platforms

WHAT THE COMPANY DOES:

  • Coordinates with Chamber contact on date, time, and place of event
  • Invites special guest
    • The Chamber will promote your event through several different platforms. We encourage you promote yourself and invite your own special guests. You should consider: Mayor, City Officials, Financiers, Contractors, Employees, Customers, Family, Friends, and Media.
  • Provides refreshments for attendees (optional)
  • Provides door prizes (optional)
  • Prepares an agenda and timeline

HOW IT RUNS:
Sample Ceremony Agenda

  • Company representative(s) welcomes guests
  • Introduction of Special Guests/VIPs in attendance
  • Introduction of company President or Manager
  • Congratulatory remarks
  • Introduction of the company; talk about the business, what it does, your new location or remodeling, give your operating hours, introduce staff, etc.
  • Pose for photo with the ribbon and scissors, include whoever you would like for this moment: staff, dignitaries, family, and/or friends
  • Invite attendees to tour your facilities, refreshments, etc.

KEEP IN MIND:

  • The further ahead you contact us, the more exposure you will receive
  • Keep in touch with your Chamber contact as plans progress
  • If parking will be an issue, let us and your attendees know in advance

WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE IT THE BEST?

  • Create a unique flyer to share on social media, we can include in our monthly Investor email, email to your invited guest
  • Send out a direct mail piece to invite local residents, businesses, etc.
  • Create a press release and send to local media
  • Invite clients, employees, board of directors, local officials, etc.
  • Invite corporate staff from out of town/corporate headquarters
  • Invite anyone who helped with your business (bank, attorneys, accountants, etc.)
  • Offer complimentary snacks and beverages, door prizes, or take-aways
  • Invite local sports or business mascots and superheroes in costumes

RIBBON CUTTING CHECKLIST

  • Fill out the Ribbon Cutting Information Sheet and return to Chamber contact
  • Coordinate with Chamber contact for date, location, and time
  • Contact Mayor’s office to request attendance
  • Create invitation list and send out invitation (printed, digital, social media, etc.)
  • Prepare agenda for event
  • Plan refreshments, tours, door prizes, etc. (optional)
  • Send agenda to Chamber contact prior to event
  • Day of event: enjoy your guests and showcase your business to Columbus
View the information sheet

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