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Much like life, businesses and communities are built around the connections we make. One cannot survive without the other, which is why local entrepreneurs and businesspeople become invested in their communities. Much of that begins with the local Chambers of Commerce, the places where businesses and communities can meet to bolster economies, encourage civic engagement, and build long-lasting friendships. The Spotlight Magazines talked with Michael Dalby, President & CEO of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, to discuss business and community and some advice he can offer fellow local entrepreneurs. What is your business and education background? graduated from the US Air Force Academy, Colorado, with a bachelor’s in international affairs and humanities and then went to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, for my master’s in English. How did you become involved with the Chamber of Commerce? I left the Air Force after 10 years and made my transition into the private sector by working at the Chamber. I just loved the work. The Chamber sits at the intersection of community and business, and I felt that was important. This [the Chamber] is how to grow a healthy economy, and how to grow a healthy community. The philanthropic involvement and the connections were also important to me. What are the benefits to business owners and entrepreneurs of a membership in the Chamber of Commerce? What advice do you have for them? It’s all about connections. Use us [the Chamber] to make connections. We are the primary Chamber of Commerce for Collier County, so we have over 1,600 members. Our four major areas are the Chamber itself, Public Policy, Economic Development, and Leadership. We teach our members how to navigate through government on all levels, how to connect with clients one to one, how to market themselves, how to connect with information about the local marketplace, and even how to get involved with local philanthropic levels. People get involved and they stay involved. We provide many opportunities for people to really become a part of the community. Imagine you are seated across the table from yourself at 18 years old. What advice do you have for him? I would advise him to value every connection he makes in life. Value and nurture those connections. You give, and you may not get anything in return right away; but, the smallest connections you make now will give you much more in return in the future. https://www.naplesspotlight.com/news/2017-06-01/Business_%28and%29_Real_Estate/Michael_Dalby_President__CEO_Greater_Naples_Chambe.html The Spotlight Magazines are interested in what local business owners and entrepreneurs have to share with our readers. Please send your information or information about business owners you think our readers would find interesting to spotlight@swspotlight.com, and we will reach out to you.