Letter From The President

Carlene Melton President

Welcome to the Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce, where our journey through the heart of Ponchatoula’s vibrant business community begins.  We are thrilled to share our story and the exciting path that lies ahead. From our humble beginnings in 1963, we’ve grown from a small collection of businesses into a flourishing community that proudly serves a robust network of over 500 business and individual memberships. From local product and service storefronts that form the backbone of our economy to diverse enterprises, we embody the entrepreneurial spirit of Ponchatoula, Hammond, and beyond.

Here at the Chamber, we’re not just about celebrating our past; we’re fervently looking forward. We understand the importance of standing on the frontlines to ensure our business environment is primed for success. As our local economy diversifies and the opportunities for business development and local employment grow, we remain dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Our reach extends across the breadth of Tangipahoa and welcomes members from all surrounding municipalities and parishes. It’s a testament to our inclusive philosophy and our commitment to fostering a thriving business environment that benefits everyone. After all, it is the high quality of life in Tangipahoa that attracts and retains our residents, and it is our dynamic business community that sustains it.

Our dedication to our mission is unwavering; to build strong businesses and, by extension, a robust community. It is our privilege to assist and nurture the growth of our business community, ensuring that Tangipahoa remains a place of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity. We stand ready to offer support, guidance, and a platform for growth to all businesses within our community. Whether you’re a startup finding your footing or an established entity aiming for new heights, the Chamber is here to assist. Our suite of events and programs is meticulously designed to cater to the diverse needs of our business community, all while fostering connections, promoting growth, and celebrating our collective achievements.

Reflecting on our journey, I am filled with pride in what we have achieved and excitement for what the future holds. Our commitment to serving the businesses and community of Tangipahoa through advocacy, connectivity, and business support has never wavered. Each event and program we undertake is crafted with a single, simple mission: to strengthen the business climate and enhance the economic vitality of our region.

I invite you to spend some time on our website, a hub of resources for our members and the broader community. Here, you can find answers to common questions, process payments with ease, and stay informed about upcoming events that are the heartbeat of our community’s social and business calendar. For our current members, your commitment and participation are what fuel this Chamber’s success. We’re so glad to have you with us, contributing to the charismatic tapestry that is Ponchatoula.

And if you haven’t yet joined us, I must ask—what are you waiting for? The Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce is more than just a chamber; it’s a community, a family of businesses big and small, all working towards a shared vision of growth and prosperity. By joining us, you’re not just becoming a member of the Chamber; you’re becoming a part of Ponchatoula’s future.

Together, let’s continue to build on our rich heritage and propel our community into an even brighter tomorrow.

– CARLENE MELTON