A group of local citizens and businessmen met on April 1, 1907, to further develop the concept of a Chamber of Commerce for Elko. According to a Free Press article that was published on April 12, 1907, there were 37 citizens representing almost every business in town, at this initial meeting. This enthusiastic and farsighted gathering, led by J.A. McBride, felt that the organization of a Chamber would do "great things for Elko and Elko County." The motto that they adopted was progress, and the goal was to advertise the many resources that Elko County had to offer.

Today, the Elko Chamber of Commerce continues to be progressive and involved in the issues that affect Elko businesses and the community. The Chamber membership has grown to over 600 businesses. With a township population of about 36,000, Elko is known as the hub of Northeastern Nevada.

Through economic diversification, we hope to ensure continued prosperity as we face future economic changes. The future will see our population continue to expand. With this growth will come new opportunities, as well as problems. The Chamber is preparing now for the challenges of the future, just as our predecessors did in 1907.