Cut Costs Without Cutting Corners in 2026
As featured in the Winter Chamber Report cover story.
A new year brings a new budget for many businesses, and with it the chance to start strong and find new savings. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce is here to help you do that through our Health Insurance Program with Employers’ Coalition for Healthcare, Inc. (ECHI) and 360 Benefits Group and our Energy Co-Op with GoodEnergy. Members can see meaningful savings with these programs and may even save more than their annual membership dues.
Employee benefits play a vital role in attracting and retaining talent, but balancing high-quality coverage with rising premiums and regulatory requirements is no easy task. Finding ways to maintain strong benefits while spending less can be a challenge for today’s employers.
That is why the Chamber partners with ECHI and 360 Benefits Group. Member businesses gain access to exclusive competitive rates, expanded plan options, and billing stability. Just by being a Chamber member, businesses receive a 5 percent discount below United Healthcare’s (UHC) existing base rates. And with only two employees required to enroll, businesses of all sizes can qualify. With more than 100 plan designs, from lean HSA-compatible models to richer copay options, all backed by UHC’s broad national network, you get flexibility, value, and peace of mind.
Getting a quote is simple. If you have an insurance broker, ask whether they participate in the Chamber Plan. If they do not or you don’t have a broker, our team can quickly connect you with participating brokers who can walk you through your options and expected savings.
Of course, keeping employees healthy is only part of the equation. Businesses also need to keep the lights on. Keeping the office warm in winter may bring unpredictable and sometimes costly energy bills. No one wants a surprise expense that disrupts the annual budget. That is why the Chamber partners with Good Energy to offer an energy co-op program that helps members secure stable, discounted energy rates through group purchasing power.
By joining the co-op, your business can lock in predictable energy costs and avoid seasonal swings. Once enrolled, you also gain access to dedicated support from GoodEnergy for any questions that come up throughout the year. The co-op is open to businesses of all sizes and industries. All you need is your most recent utility bill to receive a free, no obligation quote. The Chamber team is ready to connect you with GoodEnergy so you can see your potential savings.
Your Chamber membership reflects your commitment to the business community and to your own growth. Our commitment to you is to help you reach your goals, and these programs are some of the easiest, most effective ways to strengthen your bottom line in the new year.
If you have not explored these savings opportunities yet, now is the perfect time. Smart decisions made today will help you finish strong in December. Visit www.peoriachamber.org or contact our team to get started.
—
Want to continue receiving a printed copy of the Chamber Report?
We are now using an opt-in system for mailed copies. If you would like to receive the printed Chamber Report going forward, please complete this short form: https://forms.office.com/r/XVZFhgizah