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MISSION

To advance excellence in chamber leadership and commerce by certifying executives who drive growth, innovation, and community impact.

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CREDENTIAL PURPOSE
The CCE designation recognizes senior chamber professionals who demonstrate mastery in governance, advocacy, membership development, and economic/community impact. It validates leadership excellence and commitment to professional growth in the chamber industry.

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1. Eligibility Criteria

• Experience: 5–10+ years of senior-level leadership in a chamber, economic development organization, or related nonprofit.

• Impact: Demonstrated local, regional, or national impact in membership growth, advocacy, or community programs.

• Endorsements: Two peer or board member endorsements.

• Employment: Affiliated with a recognized chamber or related organization. Employer sponsorship optional if covering program expenses.

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Post-nominal: CCE
Certification Validity: 5 years (renewable with continuing education units or professional development activities)

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2. Certification Coursework & Modules

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Module 1 – Governance & Strategic Leadership

• Board management, bylaws, and nonprofit compliance

• Policy frameworks, advocacy, and civic engagement

• Ethical leadership and decision-making

• Case studies of high-performing chambers

Module 2 – Membership & Engagement Strategies

• Membership recruitment, retention, and satisfaction metrics

• Value creation: programs, events, and services

• Digital tools for member engagement and communication

• Stakeholder relationship management

Module 3 – Economic & Community Development

• Chamber role in local/regional economic growth

• Workforce and business development initiatives

• Community partnerships, sponsorship, and advocacy campaigns

• Measuring impact and reporting outcomes

Module 4 – Financial & Operational Management

• Budgeting, fundraising, and revenue diversification

• Risk management and financial stewardship

• Operations, staff management, and performance evaluation

Module 5 – Applied Leadership Project

• Candidates complete a practical project demonstrating chamber leadership impact

• Examples: advocacy campaign, membership growth initiative, or strategic plan implementation

• Project evaluated by ORBIT Certification Council

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3. Certification Assessment

• Written Exam: Covers governance, membership strategy, community impact, and operations

• Applied Project Review: Evaluation of submitted project and real-world outcomes

• Peer Endorsement Review: Verification of leadership impact

• Passing Requirement: Achieve a minimum score of 80% on exam and satisfactory project evaluation

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4. Renewal Requirements

• Earn 30 continuing education units (CEUs) every 5 years

• Document participation in workshops, conferences, or training programs

• Maintain engagement in chamber leadership or related community initiatives

• Submit renewal application and report for ORBIT Certification Council approval

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