ELY, MN – June 16, 2025 – The Ely Chamber of Commerce (ECC) proudly announces its 117th anniversary, marking over a century of dedicated service to the business community. Evolving from its origins as the Ely Business Men’s Association in 1908, the ECC is commemorating this significant milestone with new initiatives designed to bolster the regional economy: the establishment of the Ely Area Chamber Foundation (a 501(c)(3) organization) and an expansion of its service area to include Tower, Soudan, and Lake Vermilion.
Since its inception, the ECC, operating as a 501(c) (6) Business Association, has continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of businesses in the Ely area by providing essential services through advocacy, education, leadership development, workforce initiatives, resource provision, and networking opportunities. The strategic moves in 2024 to create a foundation and expand its geographic footprint represent the latest evolution in its unwavering commitment to regional prosperity.
The newly formed Ely Area Chamber Foundation will serve as the philanthropic arm of the ECC, providing tax-deductible sponsorship opportunities, accepting donations, and accessing a broader range of grant funding. This foundation will house the Chamber’s popular community events, including the renowned Blueberry Art Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors annually, and the cherished local family event, the Mrs. Claus Party. The foundation will also continue to offer free event planning support to local businesses, clubs, and organizations.
The ECC’s three major events continue to be significant economic drivers, attracting participants from across the country and Canada. Recent surveys highlight the substantial economic contributions of vendors and mushers to the local economy. For example, the Blueberry Art Festival vendors in 2024 generated a total economic impact of $151,085.07. Similarly, Harvest Moon Festival vendors in 2024 contributed a total economic impact of $44,601.39. Finally, Wolf-Track Classic Sled Dog Race mushers in February 2025 generated a total economic impact of $9,692.28. Collectively, these three events brought over $205,000.00 to the area, not including the additional revenue connected with volunteers and event attendees.
Before 2024, the Ely Chamber of Commerce (ECC) primarily served Ely, Babbitt, Winton, Embarrass, Isabella, and their surrounding townships and unincorporated areas. Recognizing an opportunity to provide broader business support, the ECC has expanded its service area to include Tower, Soudan, Lake Vermilion, and their associated townships and unincorporated areas. This expansion comes after the Tower Chamber of Commerce closed several years ago, and despite multiple attempts, no one was able to successfully restart or maintain the organization, leaving a significant gap in business supports and resources.
The ECC, already serving a large area with a diverse business base through its advocacy, networking, education, and other programs, views this expansion as a critical step in fostering regional economic stability. By supporting neighboring communities like Tower, Soudan, and Lake Vermilion, the ECC aims to create a “rising tide lifts all boats” effect, beneficial for all. These areas share a common tourism draw; however, each location has its own unique selling points, whether it is the Superior National Forest, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, visitor attractions, recreation opportunities, or iconic fishing waters. The ECC recognizes that the economic health of its surrounding communities is intrinsically linked to its own, ultimately creating a more prosperous environment for all communities.
The Ely Chamber of Commerce has been a vital force in workforce and business development, significantly expanding its efforts since 2021. The Employment page on Ely.org garnered over 2,375 views between March 2024 and March 2025, serving as an essential tool for members to advertise job openings. The ECC also provides a comprehensive Workforce Resource packet, which includes information on internships and state/ regional resources. In its commitment to connecting employers with diverse talent, the ECC successfully hosted a virtual J1 VISA – USA Bridge Session with InterExchange. They also organized three targeted job fairs: one at Ely High School, another at the U.S. Service Kawishiwi Ranger Station, and a third job fair in Tower, all designed to bridge the gap between employers and various age groups and communities. Furthermore, the Northwoods Business Incubator has been instrumental in supporting local businesses, offering sessions on crucial topics like marketing assistance, purchasing a business, employee retirement accounts, and wage regulations.
The ECC provides robust support to the local business community through various initiatives, including celebrating significant business milestones by hosting ribbon cuttings for new ventures or expansions. The ECC also issues letters of support to various organizations, which are crucial in helping them secure vital funding and enhance community services. Additionally, the ECC launched a Video Promotion Project creating unique two-minute promotional videos for Chamber members hosted on the Chamber’s YouTube channel and linked from Ely.org.
The Ely Chamber of Commerce actively engages the community through events designed to foster networking and information sharing. Their Quarterly Chamber Business Breakfasts provide a platform for discussions with key organizations such as The Hub, Arrowhead Transit, and Ely Community Resource. A highlight of the year is the Celebrate Ely Business Networking Dinner, with the 2025 “Pirates”-themed event held on April 3 at The Grand Ely Lodge, bringing together business owners, employees, and residents for an evening of networking, awards, and celebration, featuring inspiring keynote speakers like Jen McDonough, “The Iron Jen.”
The Ely Chamber of Commerce’s 2025-2026 vision is rooted in collective strength and regional support. By emphasizing collaboration and providing access to essential resources, networking, advocacy, and economic opportunities, the ECC aims to foster economic stability and a more prosperous environment for all communities and businesses across the entire region.
