“This is a huge accomplishment to celebrate for a 100-year-plus organization,” President and CEO Becki Womble said. “It’s a milestone that reflects the dedication, leadership and growth for everyone involved.”
What is a five-star chamber?
The U.S. Chamber Accreditation Program, began in 1964, evaluates Chambers on nine key categories, including:
- Governance: how the Chamber is structured and led including its board and bylaws.
- Finance: sound financial practices and management
- Human resources: effective management of staff and volunteers.
- Government affairs: advocacy for pro-business policies at the federal, state and local levels
- Communications: how the Chamber communicates with its members and the public.
- Technology: use of technology to improve operations and member services.
- Facilities: the physical space and resources the Chamber uses.
- Benchmarking: comparing performance against nation standards and other others.
- Program development: the creation and delivery of valuable programs and services for members and the community.
The Bastrop Chamber first applied in 2023 and earned a four-star rating. After refining its practices, strengthening policies, and enhancing its advocacy efforts, it reapplied two years later and achieved the five-star distinction.
Only 154 U.S. Chambers hold five-star accreditation out of more than 7,000, placing the Bastrop Chamber in the top 2%. Texas leads in accredited Chambers, with 44 total, including 32 with five-star status.
“This accreditation reflects rigorous national standards, hundreds of pages of documentation and proof that we operate at the highest highest standards in the nation,” Womble said.
Why is this a big deal for Bastrop?
Earning five-star accreditation is more than a national honor; it’s a testament to the Bastrop Chamber’s role in supporting the local economy and community.
The Chamber supports over 800 local businesses by fostering collaboration, advocating for pro-business policies and providing resources for growth. From meeting with city officials to hosting programs that connect members and grow their networks, it works behind the scenes to amplify each member’s impact.
“This recognition validates our work in strengthening Bastrop’s business community,” Womble said. “It shows that when members invest in our Chamber, their investment drives growth, opportunity and prosperity for the region.”
Celebrating Chamber excellence
The December luncheon marked a key event for the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, where the five-star accreditation was celebrated with past and present leaders.
The gathering connected long-standing and new members, illustrating the Chamber’s 100-year-plus journey and the collective effort behind this milestone. It was a moment of unity, reflection and forward momentum—a celebration of past dedication and a launch into future impact.
Continuing the journey
With the five-star designation, the Bastrop Chamber will continue to grow and expand its influence. The organization is rebranding as the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce to better reflect its diverse membership and reach across Central Texas.
“This accreditation validates everything we’ve built,” Womble said. “It’s a launching pad for new initiatives, continued advocacy, and staying at the top for the business community.”
Learn about the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce and its five-star achievement here.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
