Mason City, IA (July 21, 2026) — Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce has been named Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Virginia, that has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.
Chamber of the Year, sponsored by GrowthZone, is the most prestigious and competitive award presented annually by ACCE. It recognizes the leadership role chambers of commerce have in their communities. Those honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have demonstrated organizational strength and made an impact on key community priorities such as education, transportation, economic prosperity and quality of life.
“Chambers of commerce are helping communities navigate change, solve complex challenges and create new opportunities,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “This year’s Chamber of the Year winners exemplify bold leadership, innovation and measurable impact. Their work is strengthening regional economies and positioning their communities for long-term success.”
Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce accepted the award on July 21 during the Awards Show at ACCE’s Annual Convention in New Orleans.
“This honor reflects the intentional work of our Board of Directors to create a comprehensive strategic plan; the professionalism and innovation of the Chamber staff; the support of our incredible volunteers; and the strength of our membership,” said Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Colleen Frein. “We share the recognition with our outstanding community partners who always see the vision, are willing to do the hard work, and are passionate about the betterment of our region. We truly are GREATER TOGETHER!”
Chambers of commerce interested in competing for the award must first qualify by participating in a vigorous multi-stage process. Organizations entering the Chamber of the Year competition must meet minimum thresholds in at least three of five key performance areas in ACCE’s Annual Chamber Operations Survey, including net revenue and assets, membership account retention and membership dollar retention.
Qualifying chambers enter the competition with a written application addressing all aspects of organizational operation and programmatic work. Applications are scored by peer chamber executives to determine finalists. The finalists then move on to an interview before a panel of experienced chamber professionals.
To ensure the fairest competition, applicants are grouped into four categories based on budget. A strong conflict of interest policy signed by all volunteer judges, ensures a competitive and fair playing field for all applicants.
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About the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives
Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) is the professional society supporting the women and men who lead local, regional, statewide and international chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations. Our membership includes more than 1,600 business/civic organizations worldwide. We provide our members with information resources, thought leadership, education programs, original research, benchmarking, retirement security, and access to a network of peers.
About the award sponsor GrowthZone
At GrowthZone, Your Mission is Our Mission. As a leading provider of association and chamber management software, we do more than deliver technology – we serve as your trusted technology partner and an extension of your staff. Our team works alongside you to simplify operations, strengthen engagement, and help your organization deliver exceptional value to the members and communities you serve.
Trusted by thousands of organizations, including many of the most influential associations and chambers in the industry, GrowthZone is the partner of choice for organizations seeking mission-aligned solutions, exceptional value, and measurable results. Discover more at growthzone.com.