Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce

The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce is Scotland’s capital city Chamber of Commerce. They are a completely independent business organisation who promotes commerce and encourages inclusive growth in Edinburgh and beyond.

As an accredited Chamber of the British Chamber of Commerce, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce members benefit from four essential business services: 

- Free HR advice and resources 

- Free legal advice 

- Free H&S advice 

- Free tax support. 

Members have access to unlimited HR and Legal advice conveniently available 24/7 – 365 days a year, a document library with 750 templates, and legal expenses insurance with no excess. 

In 1785, the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce was founded when leading Edinburgh businessmen met in the New Church Aisle of St Giles. 

On 10 July 1786, this was duly granted by King George III and is still displayed in the George Street office today. 

One of the first matters to which Edinburgh Chamber gave attention, was the improvement of the Lighthouse on May Island. A committee was formed to look into the matter and visit the island in 1786. A lighthouse keeper was appointed at a salary of £7 per annum. 

The vision and aims behind the chamber remain as relevant in the 21st century as they were in the 18th when Scotland’s capital was a powerhouse during the golden period of cultural, scientific and social enlightenment.

Mission

According to their website, ECC's mission is to: "lead innovation, share the best practice, inform and support the member businesses whose efforts are so important to the wellbeing of the city."

Vision

The Chamber's vision is in its innovative practices. According to their vision statement: "We were...always at the fore of innovation. We instigated the firing of the 1 o’clock gun at Edinburgh Castle to keep shipping in Leith informed of accurate time. We inspired the first ever date stamped mail, and were responsible for influencing the first ever business degree at Edinburgh University."

The Edinburgh Chamber hosts over 100 events every year attracting an audience of over 5,000 delegates.