The Perham Area Chamber of Commerce started as a small group of business people. They were known as the Civic and Commerce club in the Village of Perham. The intent was building a strong community to raise a family, live and retain the businesses in the Village of Perham. The Perham Chamber of Commerce was officially incorporated by he State of Minnesota on April 30, 1971. A name change happened in 1985 when Area was legally added. Since 1985 the organization has been known as The Perham Area Chamber of Commerce. The Perham Area Chamber of Commerce with a strong impact in the area and surrounding communities, worked to include the resorts who brought their guests to the area and other businesses outside the Perham city limits. The Chamber decided to take action. It gave these members the right to vote and hold office in the Perham Area Chamber of Commerce. This action was taken with the name change and voted on by the Board of Directors and the Membership.