Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce

Mission:
The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the business community in Martinsville and Henry County. Established in 1959, the Chamber serves over 800 member businesses and acts as a collective voice for regional commerce.

Services and Programs:

• Workforce Development:
• Provides labor market information to businesses.
• Coordinates, promotes, and hosts job fairs and recruitment events to meet employment and staffing needs.
• Aligns employers and job seekers with resources, training opportunities, and funding through programs such as Incumbent Worker Training, Transitional Worker, and On the Job Training (OJT) under the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) and Pathways to the American Dream Act.
• Offers layoff aversion and rapid response services for business closures.
• Professional Development:
• The Incumbent Worker Training Program helps offset costs for professional development, training on new equipment or processes, and credentialing for existing employees, fostering career advancement and creating new entry-level positions.
• On the Job Training (OJT):
• Provides employment, training, and supportive services to job seekers lacking sufficient skills or facing employment barriers. Employers hiring OJT participants are reimbursed 50% of the participant's salary during the training period (typically 2-6 months).
• Business Support:
• Assists with recruiting, staffing, new business start-ups, layoffs, plant closings, and professional development.
• Partners with the West Piedmont Workforce Investment Board and Ridesolutions to address transportation barriers to employment.
• Community Engagement:
• Organizes events such as the Small Business of the Year Awards to recognize entrepreneurial achievement.

Eligibility and Service Area:

• Services are primarily targeted at businesses and job seekers in Martinsville and Henry County, but regional workforce programs may be accessible to broader areas depending on program guidelines.
• Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.

Funding and Partnerships:

• Programs are funded by the West Piedmont Workforce Investment Board and the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration.
• The Chamber collaborates with local, state, and federal representatives on public policy initiatives.

Note: For detailed eligibility and participation requirements, contact the organization directly.