In this section:
Leadership Durham
Developing Community Leaders…….Building a Better Durham
Leadership Durham, a program of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, opens doors for local business men and women and community leaders with the desire and ability to shape its future. Through face-to-face meetings with local and state leaders and on-site visits to local institutions, agencies and organizations, participants explore major issues and unique challenges facing the Durham community. Interactive sessions include in-depth discussions on Durham’s history, the role of the Durham Chamber of Commerce, economic development, community development, education, workforce development, social services, human needs, local government, judicial system, media, healthcare, marketing Durham, parks and recreation, culture and arts, and of course, leadership development.
Selection & Participation
Selection is based upon demonstrated leadership ability, evidence of community involvement, willingness to assume greater community responsibilities and professional/personal recommendations. Up to 30 participants will be accepted in to the 2012 program.
Leadership Durham requires a substantial commitment of time and attendance is critical for successful completion of the program. Participants are expected to attend all sessions to fully appreciate the insight and scope of each topic.
The opportunity to grow your network by directly engaging in dialogue and debate with over 100 movers and shaker who drive business and lifestyle improvements while addressing critical issues within our community. Additionally you will establish life-long relationships with fellow classmates and hundreds of Leadership Durham Alumni who will be joining you throughout this leadership development experience.
If you have questions or need further information, please contact the Chamber at (919) 328-8700.
Stay Connected with Leadership Durham
In the spirit of online networking with fellow alum please join us on LinkedIn by adding our group to your profile. Simply click on groups and look for Leadership Durham Alumni (a subgroup of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce). You must be a graduate of Leadership Durham to be accepted in to this group.
Leadership Durham Alumni
Since 1972, Leadership Durham has helped cultivate a diverse network of over 1,000 emerging and experienced leaders committed to improving the community. Leadership Durham graduate include current civic, business and professional leaders.
If you are an alumnus of the Leadership Durham program and would like to update your information on the Leadership Durham Alumni roster, please send your contact information to LeadershipDurham AT durhamchamber DOT org
Chamber U
Chamber U is a free, innovative initiative of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce designed to address critical topics and to help prepare Chamber members to meet the ever-changing demands of the workplace. These once-a-week (each Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.) educational opportunities provide members with valuable tools and information they can take back to their businesses and utilize to help them achieve the success they desire. The program provides individualized growth and development opportunities for entry level to executive leadership covering the entire gamut from "nuts & bolts" to "visionary thinking."
Who should attend? The program is free and open to any member of the Durham community!
How do I attend? Just show up at the Durham Chamber from 8:30-9:30 a.m. on any Wednesday morning. Click here for our events calendar to view and register for upcoming Chamber U sessions.
Want to present at an upcoming Chamber U? Fill out the form below!
Small Business
The Small Business Council (SBC) aims to serve, represent and promote the Chamber’s small business members and to enhance the economic health of Durham's small business community. The Small Business Council provides educational, networking and promotional opportunities tailored to the needs of small business owners and managers.
Business Roundtables
Business Roundtables allow business owners, managers and key staff team members the opportunity to share and discuss ideas, issues and concerns about a number of business topics in a confidential setting. In order to better serve participants and provide a greater return on the investment of time, Business Roundtables will now meet throughout the year on an ongoing basis. Consider it your own personal board of advisors! The roundtables provide an invaluable learning experience and create lasting business relationships. Applications are accepted quarterly for the 2012 Business Roundtables.
Small Business Council Executive Lunch Series
The SBC Executive Lunch Series provides small business members the opportunity to meet and network with area c-level executives. These monthly lunches also provide small business members the opportunity to discuss various business related topics and learn more about the executive’s career path in an informal setting. The lunches are hosted monthly at the executive’s place of business. Seating is limited. Click here to view upcoming SBC Executive Lunch dates and locations.

Chamber Programs
Whether you’re a small business seeking business building skills or looking to expand and grow your network, the Chamber has a variety of professional development programs to help members of all sizes and stages. These programs, offer a tremendous return on members’ investment.