Photo courtesy of HCCC

The Harney County Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) is a staple in the landscape of downtown Burns. While it started out in 1909 as the Burns Commercial Club, and transitioned to the Burns Chamber of Commerce in 1928, they have held their current name since 1948. Just like the hardy and forward-thinking people that built a community in this rugged, high desert land, HCCC has survived right alongside them.

Today, HCCC has three main purposes. One, they serve their members through marketing, resources, networking, and representation. Two, they are the welcoming committee via the visitor center and lead tourism marketing to provide economic vitality to their members. Three, they fill gaps for the betterment of life in Harney County. Your membership supports these three initiatives, and so much more.

What are the benefits a member receives? Each member has their own website listing, complete with contact information. If you do not have a website, the listing provides Search Engine Optimization so others can find you. HCCC’s Executive Director, Jess Hedges, writes a custom Facebook and Instagram post for each organization that not only thanks members for their commitment to our community, but shares the benefits of that organization with others. A members-only email has been established to ensure HCCC can quickly share information and opportunities available only to their members. The harneycounty.com events page now has a self-posting option, which helps spread the word about events, meetings, special sales, and more. Finally, Jess will touch base with each member annually to ensure the benefits are maximized for each individual organization.

HCCC has updated their membership rates for 2025. The Artesian/Individual Supporter level was created to serve the high number of home-based businesses as they are a huge part of the Harney County economy. This level is also perfect for the individuals who value HCCC’s performance, want to financially support their mission, and stay connected with the business/non-profit work done here in our community. All of this for only $75. The other level covers businesses, non-profits, schools, and banks/credit unions for a flat rate of $125. Employee count or deposit totals are no longer required!

While there are several sponsorship opportunities available to members, their main focus is to strengthen Harney County through membership in HCCC. For 116 years, our community has shown its support for our economic independence through their participation and they hope to continue serving for 116 years more.

For questions or more information, please call Jess at 541-573-2636 or email her, director@harneycounty.com.