Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Coastal Alabama Business Chamber is marking a major milestone, celebrating 45 years of service to the local business community. The organization has played a key role in supporting growth throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Leaders say the chamber has evolved alongside the region. Its work continues to connect businesses and strengthen the local economy.

The chamber was incorporated on June 18, 1981. It now represents more than 1,000 member businesses and organizations across Coastal Alabama. Its Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offices serve a wide range of communities. The anniversary was announced in a June 18, 2026, press release.

“Forty-five years of success is ultimately a story about the resilience of this community,” said Greg Alexander, CABC president and CEO. “Through hurricanes, the oil spill, and COVID-19, business owners, community leaders, and volunteers have consistently chosen to invest their time and resources into making Coastal Alabama a strong place to live, work, and play.”

Today, the chamber supports its members through advocacy, professional development, special events, and networking opportunities. It hosts more than 120 events annually. These programs connect business leaders and promote economic growth throughout the region.

One of the chamber’s largest efforts is the Annual National Shrimp Festival. The four-day event draws more than 300,000 attendees each year. More than 900 volunteers help run the festival, which showcases seafood, art, and music while boosting the local economy.

In recent years, the chamber has expanded its programs to reach more people. New initiatives include the Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off Challenge, the Coastal Alabama Leadership League, Lower Alabama Young Professionals, the PowHER Hour+ speaker series, and Coastal Alabama Kid Entrepreneurs Day.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead,” Alexander said. “The Chamber has grown and evolved alongside our community. As Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have transformed into world-class destinations, we’ve remained focused on meaningful engagement with our members and partners, strengthening connections, supporting local businesses, and helping shape the next chapter of Coastal Alabama’s story.”

Since its founding, the chamber’s mission has been to strengthen businesses and the community through a culture of excellence. Leaders say the mission remains unchanged as the organization looks toward future growth and continued service across Coastal Alabama.