Established in 1919 as the Dover Chamber of Commerce, the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce evolved over time with the merger of the Smyrna-Clayton Chamber of Commerce and more recently, a partnership with the City of Harrington Business Association.

The general purpose of the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce is to advance the balanced economic development of Central Delaware by promoting civic, industrial, commercial, agri-business and social interests of the community, and by strengthening the freedom of private business to operate competitively for profit with minimal governmental regulation.

Created as a non-profit, non-partisan, non-sectarian, apolitical corporate entity, CDCC stands as an advocate of business geared to improving the economic well-being of the community by qualitatively expanding the income potential of its members. Through active work in organizational and economic development, as well as community, military and legislative affairs, the Chamber helps to increase job opportunities for residents; to attract new industry and business to the area; to encourage programs of a civic, social and cultural nature; and to promote business conduct and practices.

CDCC serves as a forum to articulate contemporary issues facing the business community and to act as a public relations medium for the interests, problems, and needs of its membership.

Promoting the general welfare, prosperity and quality of life in Central Delaware and stimulating public sentiment to these ends, are principal themes of purpose for the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce.