2026 In With The New: A Chamber Kickoff Event

Every January, our Chamber starts the new year by bringing our members together for In With The New! Hosted by our Board of Directors and Ambassadors, this free networking event showcases our newest members, facilitates connections amongst our business community, and energizes us all for the year ahead.

Thursday, January 29, 2026
4:00-6:00PM
Bedford Area Welcome Center

Make sure to mark your calendar! In With The New is the perfect way to kick off your 2026 business goals, and you won't want to miss it. 

Guests can expect:

• Booths showcasing some of our newest Chamber members
• Hors d'oeuvres
• Icy/Hot Beverage Bar
• A truly ridiculous Mega Raffle (sponsorships, event tickets, exclusive advertising, and more!)
• Casual, fun networking!

You don't have to be a Chamber member to attend, but In With The New is a great way to meet and build relationships with fellow Chamber members!

Note: Registration is not needed to attend! However, new members who joined our Chamber in 2025 are invited to set up a free booth at this event. Please click "Register" on the right side of the screen to claim your table.


Meet Your Hosts

BACC Board of Directors
The Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce is managed by its President/CEO and an all-volunteer Board of Directors. Our Board brings to the Chamber many years of experience from their positions within their companies and within the community. Most Board members are elected for three-year terms and many return to serve an additional three years. Board membership requires dedication and care, an ability to make sound decisions, excellent stewardship of the Chamber’s finances, and many hours of hard work. Our Board members are always willing to lend a hand at events, donate a needed piece of equipment, and to offer their support in so many other areas when they’re called upon. Learn More.

BACC Ambassadors
The Ambassador program is an initiative designed for professionals who are passionate about supporting their local business community. Ambassadors serve as the welcoming face of the chamber, connecting with members, assisting with events, and promoting engagement. Ambassadors enjoy exclusive networking opportunities, enhanced visibility, and professional development while making a meaningful impact. It's the perfect way to expand your connections, grow your leadership skills, and play an active role in strengthening the local economy. Learn More.

Bedford Area Welcome Center
The Bedford County Tourism team, headquartered at the Bedford Area Welcome Center, leads the award-winning Destination Bedford brand and plays a vital role in driving the county’s growing tourism economy. Open daily year-round, the Welcome Center offers exhibits, scenic views, a gift shop, a small theater, meeting space, outdoor amenities, and visitor services for travelers from around the world. In 2024, tourism reached a record $82.2 million in visitor spending, supporting 583 local jobs, generating $3 million in local tax revenue, and outpacing statewide growth. Through multimedia marketing, strong regional partnerships, widely distributed brochures, and active social media channels, the team has helped drive a 49% increase in website traffic since 2021 and rising interest in outdoor recreation, historic attractions, events, disc golf, and group travel, continuing to elevate Bedford as a premier destination in the Virginia Mountains. Learn More.