SURF CITY – The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Board of Directors established the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. The new Foundation has been approved by the NC Secretary of State.

“The foundation will enable the Chamber to apply for grants to enhance the Chamber’s programs,” said Tammy Proctor, Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism director.

“Kathy Blackburn, a Chamber board member and attorney, was instrumental in working us through the formation of the foundation,” said Karen Seibert, the Chamber Board chairperson. “It was a process that involved our entire board of directors under Kathy’s guidance.”

The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation can accept charitable gifts and legacy donations from estates. Funds given to the Foundation are tax deductible and will be applied to programs within the Chamber.

“Chamber members who have expertise in grant writing have formed a committee to research and guide the foundation,” said Proctor. “Grants for educational and community programs are available. With the new Foundation and a committee of experts, we can begin our grants search.”

Chambers of Commerce fall under the IRS restrictions of a 501 (c) 6. Chambers nationwide have established foundations as a revenue stream to apply grant funding to Chamber programs and enhance the economic impact on their communities.

“It is our hope that the Foundation will be a tool that will impact our business community,” said Proctor.

For more information about the Foundation, please contact the Chamber at 910-329-4446.