Alton, Mo. – The Alton Chamber of Commerce meeting was Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Collins Coffee. The Chamber discussed an OzSBI workshop, 501(c)(3) status, and memberships letters, among other things.
Smart Start Workshop
The Chamber discussed a Smart Start Workshop hosted by OzSBI. A date was set for Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Collins Coffee between 5:30-8:30 pm. More details will come soon with registration links. The meeting will cover fundamentals of starting a business, feasibility, registration and licensing, cash-flows, among other things.
501(c)(3) Status
The Chamber’s nonprofit status was revoked because mandatory IRS reporting has not been completed since 2011. A CPA has offered to help the Chamber regain its 501(c)(3) status.
Memberships
Individual and business memberships are due by July 1, 2026. Businesses cost $40 and individuals cost $25.
Walnut Festival
The Chamber is trying to book “The Creek Rocks” from Springfield, alongside returning artist Vicki McGee. Vendor letters will be sent out around May 1st to get interested vendors. A suggestion was also made to hire Mason Cockrum to video the event.
250th Anniversary
Aligning with the nation’s 250th Anniversary, a free community potluck is being proposed for Sunday, July 5th, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on the town square. A pitch will be made to the Ministerial Alliance on March 16th to get local churches involved in providing food.
