Companies participate in trade associations for multiple reasons, but the primary benefit is lobbying. Trade associations communicate with lawmakers, on behalf of their members, to influence specific policies at the federal, state and local levels.1 The Chamber’s power comes from its large membership, and the money they spend on lobbying, advertising, and campaign contributions (this money comes from member companies including dues).
Most companies join to get the Chamber weighing in in support of things the company cares about – like less regulation, lower taxes, and immigration. According to Bill Weihl, former Google and Facebook sustainability leader, “When companies say they don’t want to alienate or disagree with the Chamber publicly, they’re basically saying that their business interests trump what society needs.”
Apple left the Chamber in 2009 over its anti-climate positions, which proves that companies can leave the Chamber and still thrive.2
Note that Alphabet is a member of many trade associations and membership groups which can help represent its diverse business interests.3