Investment
JOIN US
Investment in the GBA contributes directly to our work to be an essential driver of Gaston County’s transformation into a regional business and economic leader. Every initiative, program, event, and challenge we embark upon is for this purpose.
Annual Investment Opportunities
The GBA recognizes every business has specific needs, challenges, and priorities. We are committed to your success and have tailored our offerings to provide meaningful connections and valuable resources for all stages of business.
Connector
You are a startup or a small business owner, in early stages of growth and employing fewer than 10 individuals. For new investors, a "fast-track to ROI" onboarding process will introduce you to peers; get you plugged into essential partners and resources, educational workshops, and relationship-building opportunities; and allow you to enhance your business reach and exposure. Investors at the Connector level enjoy access to bottom-line benefit programs, continued exposure, and access to the GBA network.
Activating your membership here opens the door for you to grow professionally and build your business.
BRANDING & POSITIONING
- Basic GBA Business Directory Listing 1 Location in business listings
- GBA Investor Decal and Digital Badge New Member Recognition
- Business opening/expansion event kit
- GBA Awards Eligibility
SERVICES & DISCOUNTS
- Talent Pipeline Management Program Opportunities
- Investor pricing for select programs & events
- Discounted Certificates of Origin Notary Services
- Bottom-line Benefits Access
BUSINESS GROWTH, RELATIONSHIP & BUSINESS BUILDING
- Relationship-building events
- Educational and professional development programs & events
- Business to Business Connections
- GBA Orientation
- Direct access to GBA team knowledge & network
- Weekly GBA newsletter Access to GBA area councils
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS SUPPORT
- Advocacy Initiatives
- Public policy updates
MINIMUM INVESTMENT: $350
Innovator
Your growing company needs added exposure and awareness to help you build on your burgeoning success. While you’re busy cultivating your customer base, we provide you and your team members with essential tools, programs, and resources to accelerate growth. We've curated an active peer to peer network to get you connected quickly. With enhanced visibility and attention, we empower you to access the greater business community and establish key relationships.
In addition to all benefits & services from lower investor levels, Innovators receive:
BRANDING & POSITIONING
- Enhanced GBA Business Directory Listing
- Up to 3 business locations in GBA Directory
- Program & Events Sponsorship opportunities
ACCESS
- GBA Investor Mailing List
- Two, Four-Hour Blocks of Time in Conference Room
MINIMUM INVESTMENT: $700
Collaborator
You care about the greater picture—for both your business and surrounding community. You are likely to volunteer yourself, your team, and your platform to support larger economic development initiatives. Becoming a Collaborator offers your business the opportunity to develop as a true community supporter and contribute to key business and advocacy efforts. As your business matures, you're looking to adapt and change your business model. Our programs and events will help address that need and connect you with like-minded individuals.
In addition to all benefits & services from lower investor levels, Collaborators receive:
BRANDING & POSITIONING
- Featured GBA Business Directory Listing
- Up to 5 business locations in GBA Directory
- Program & Events Sponsorship opportunities
ACCESS & INFLUENCE
- Four, Four-Hour Blocks of Time in Conference Room
- Signature Event early registration
- Workforce Development Initiatives
MINIMUM INVESTMENT: $1,500
Influencer
High-level leadership is important to your community-minded organization, and you’re looking to attend the most valuable programs and events in the region. We offer the select opportunity for your business to influence the direction of Gaston County's future. Sharing the stage with like-minded business leaders and advocates, you can play a role in helping to shape a more prosperous and business-friendly community.
In addition to all benefits & services from lower investor levels, Influencers receive:
BRANDING & POSITIONING
- Featured placement on website
- Featured access to sponsorship opportunities
- 6+ business locations in GBA Directory
ACCESS
- Conference Room as Available
MINIMUM INVESTMENT: $3,500
Leader
As a Leader, your company values its legacy and strives to channel that prestige towards a stronger Gaston County. With recognition as a key partner, we give you the keys to bolster your reputation and brand positioning as a community champion.
Your investment supports our ability to strengthen our regional economy. Starting at this investment level, your company is guaranteed a spot in our marquee Leadership Gaston Program.
In addition to all benefits & services from lower investor levels, Leaders receive:
BRANDING & POSITIONING
- Priority placement on website
- Priority access to sponsorship opportunities
ACCESS & INFLUENCE
- Conference Room as Available
- Enhanced Collaboration with GBA Leadership
- Guaranteed Leadership Gaston position for employees
MINIMUM INVESTMENT: $7,500
Visionary
Visionary partners enjoy all the benefits of our other tiers plus exclusive visibility, access & influence. Businesses at this prestigious level are widely known for their forward-thinking vision and leadership. Visionary partners work directly with GBA Leadership to affect change and drive a prosperous & inclusive economy.
In addition to all benefits & services from all other investor levels, Visionaries receive:
BRANDING & POSITIONING
- Highest priority placement on website
- Highest priority access to sponsorship opportunities
ACCESS & INFLUENCE
- Conference Room as Available
- Enhanced Collaboration with GBA Leadership
- Guaranteed Leadership Gaston position for employees
MINIMUM INVESTMENT: $15,000
Please direct questions to Nancy Rosemond, Investor Relations Director, at 704.864.2621 or by email: nancy@gastonbusiness.com.
Ready to be a part of something bigger?
Become a member of the Gaston Business Association