As in its program, so in its budget, the Chamber must be guided by local conditions.  Chamber budgets, while they are naturally influenced by the size and resources of the community, will be determined by the nature of the program undertaken, and by the wishes of its members.  Certain projects may be undertaken that will require more money than others.  Then the amount to be raised also must be determined by those most concerned.

Taking into consideration the experience of chambers of commerce in smaller communities, the following table has been prepared as a general objective for cities of 10,000 and under.  It is not presumed that the number of members or amounts of money indicated for cities in any population group are either the maximum or minimum which may be depended upon.

It may be that one city can raise more money and secure more members – or less – than is indicated in the following table.  But if a chamber of commerce maintains over a period of years the number of members and the amount of membership income that is given below, then that chamber may feel it is getting good support.

                  Number of Members                                        Budget

40                                       $ 2,000.00

70                                       $ 3,450.00

110                                     $ 4,850.00

130                                     $ 5,200.00

150                                     $ 6,000.00

175                                     $ 8,750.00

200                                     $10,000.00

225                                     $13,500.00

250                                    $16,250.00