Small Businesses Recognized at Third Annual North Central Massachusetts Small Business Showcase and Entrepreneur Awards Reception

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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its economic development arm, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), recognized several small businesses and individuals at the Third Annual Small Business Showcase and Entrepreneur Awards Reception, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Leominster on April 1, 2026.

The awards celebrated entrepreneurship in the region and showcased successful NCMDC clients who are helping to advance the region’s economy and communities.

“Our entrepreneurs represent the very best of what North Central Massachusetts has to offer, including the determination, innovation, and grit that make our regional economy thrive,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation. “With so many outstanding nominees this year, selecting our honorees was no easy task. Every one of them has a story worth telling, and we are proud to recognize those whose contributions to their communities and to our regional economy are nothing short of remarkable.”

Nellye Molina / Dream Big Award Pictured Left to Right: Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Nellye Molina, owner of Lov’n Donuts in Leominster and recipient of the NCMDC’s Dream Big Award; and Dr. Mahmoud Al – Odeh, Dean of Business and Technology at Fitchburg State University

The Dream Big Award recognized Nellye Molina, owner of Lov’n Donuts, located in Leominster. This award recognizes a business owner from a traditionally underserved community or population, including low-income communities, minority-owned businesses, or women-owned businesses. Lov’n Donuts has been a beloved community gathering place since 1987. In 2023, Molina took ownership of the woman-owned small business and began writing its next chapter, one defined by growth, vision, and heart. Molina spent nearly two decades building expertise in the restaurant and hotel industries before taking the leap to business ownership, bringing that dedication to Lov’n Donuts and continuing to create a welcoming space for her community.

Marieke Cormier / Community Impact Award Pictured Left to Right: Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Marieke Cormier, owner of Roots Natural Foods in Leominster and recipient of the NCMDC’s Community Impact Award; and Dr. Mahmoud Al – Odeh, Dean of Business and Technology at Fitchburg State University.

The Community Impact Award recognized Marieke Cormier, owner of Roots Natural Foods, located in Leominster. This award recognizes a business providing needed services in the community. Roots Natural Foods was founded in 2002 by Cormier’s mother, offering organic groceries, vitamins and supplements, catering, and a beloved café. Cormier took the reins in 2011 and has grown the business into a community institution, serving as a gathering place, wellness hub, and supporter of local suppliers and causes for nearly a quarter century. Cormier has built a workplace grounded in respect and teamwork and has been instrumental in cultivating connection, health, and local pride in the Leominster community. She has not just run a business; she has helped cultivate connection, health, and local pride, one cup of coffee and one conversation at a time.

Beth Jaillet / Entrepreneur Success Award Pictured Left to Right: Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Jocelyn Jaillet, accepting on behalf of her mother Beth Jaillet, owner of MacMannis Florist & Greenhouse in Athol and recipient of the NCMDC’s Entrepreneur Success Award; and Dr. Mahmoud Al – Odeh, Dean of Business and Technology at Fitchburg State University.

The Entrepreneur Success Award recognized Beth Jaillet, owner of MacMannis Florist & Greenhouse, located in Athol. This award recognizes a business that has demonstrated growth by providing quality jobs and increasing revenue MacMannis Florist has been a trusted community landmark since the 1940s. After spending 20 years working within those walls, Jaillet purchased the business, rebranded it as MacMannis Florist & Greenhouse, expanded its offerings, and has continued to build on the shop’s legacy while adding hands-on workshops that bring community members together.

In addition to the recognition, these three small business clients of the NCMDC also took home cash awards of $500 each.

During the program, the Chamber also presented its Community Partner of the Year and Banker of the Year awards.

Kevin Kuros / Community Partner of the Year Pictured Left to Right: Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Kevin Kuros, Central Massachusetts Regional Director of the Massachusetts Office of Business Development and recipient of the NCMDC’s Community Partner of the Year Award; and Dr. Michael Greenwood, Business Department Chair at Fitchburg State University.

Kevin Kuros, Central Massachusetts Regional Director of the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, was recognized as the Community Partner of the Year for his support and active partnership with the NCMDC in supporting start-up businesses. Kuros has hosted office hours alongside the NCMDC team, connecting entrepreneurs directly to state programs for capital access, permitting, and site selection, and has been an active partner in business expansion projects across the region. He has also been a consistent referral source for the NCMDC’s microloan program, accompanying staff on site visits and bringing a hands-on, collaborative approach to his work with the region’s entrepreneurs.

Martin F. Connors, Jr. / Banker of the Year Pictured Left to Right: Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Martin F. Connors, Jr., Executive Chair of the Rollstone Bank & Trust Board of Directors and recipient of the NCMDC’s Banker of the Year Award; and Dr. Michael Greenwood, Business Department Chair at Fitchburg State University.

Martin F. Connors, Jr., former President and CEO of Rollstone Bank & Trust, was honored with the Banker of the Year Award in recognition of his exceptional and long-standing commitment to the NCMDC and the small business community. Under Connors’ leadership, Rollstone agreed to serve as the administrator of the NCMDC’s revolving microloan fund, providing the billing and operational infrastructure that keeps the program running. The bank also made direct financial contributions to the NCMDC over the years, support that has helped sustain a program that has deployed over $27 million in microloans and helped create thousands of jobs across the region. Connors recently retired as President and CEO and now serves as Executive Chair of Rollstone’s Board and Vice Chair of the River Run Board, Rollstone’s parent company. He has also served as a past Chair of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and as a board member of United Way and HealthAlliance Hospital, among others.

The event also featured a Small Business Showcase with more than 25 exhibitor tables, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect with business owners, lenders, and professional service providers. Attendees voted for their favorite table display, with the winner receiving a $100 Gift Local gift card.

Special thanks to Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University; Corporate Sponsors Fidelity Bank and Workers’ Credit Union Partner Sponsors Main Street Bank, TD Bank, and Bay State Bank; Bag Sponsor Beacon Bank; and sound production by Central Mass Productions.

Member Spotlight: Custom Cleaning Service

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When the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”

It’s a straightforward mission, but one that requires a level of trust that goes well beyond a mop and a vacuum. And for nearly five decades, Custom Cleaning Service has been earning that trust.

A Legacy Built on Reliability

The company was founded in 1977 by Jean and David Carlucci of Peabody, MA, and has since grown into a regionally recognized name in commercial cleaning and janitorial services. Today, it has established a footprint in North Central and Western MA, in addition to the company’s Peabody location. Adam Paicos, Jean’s son-in-law lives in Templeton with his wife and two young boys. The family ownership structure reflects something the company takes seriously: a personal stake in every client relationship.

Custom Cleaning serves a wide range of commercial environments, including financial institutions, professional offices, medical and dental practices, and commercial properties. The company specializes in multi-location accounts and currently services multiple branches for regional financial institutions. It also handles parking lot and structure cleaning for large businesses and works with general contractors on post-construction cleanups.

Consistency as a Competitive Edge

In an industry where quality can vary widely from one visit to the next, Custom Cleaning Service has made consistency its calling card. The company uses modern technology systems to track employee performance, verify time on site, and confirm that all tasks are completed to standard, complemented by routine supervisory inspections and quality control checks.

“This allows us to deliver dependable, high-quality service across multiple locations, which is something many companies struggle to maintain,” Paicos explains.

That commitment extends to the company’s workplace culture as well. Employees are expected to show up consistently, take pride in their work, and understand the stakes of operating in environments where trust is critical. Those who identify and report security risks at client sites, communicate effectively, and perform at a high level are recognized and rewarded.

The approach is working. One of the company’s proudest recent achievements has been earning the confidence of a large financial institution and delivering consistent service across 10 branch locations under a multi-year contract.

Rooted in North Central Massachusetts

Custom Cleaning Service has deep ties to the region it serves. Through involvement with local chambers and networking events, Paicos has built strong relationships with business owners and decision makers throughout Central Massachusetts. The company supports local recreation departments through youth sports sponsorships and extends discounts to fellow chamber members as a way of investing in the small business community.

“Relationships matter here,” Paicos says of North Central Massachusetts, “and that creates an environment where trust, reliability, and reputation carry real value.”

Looking Ahead

The company’s growth trajectory is pointed firmly westward and outward. Custom Cleaning Service is investing in the systems and processes needed to scale across Central and Western Massachusetts, while maintaining the same standard of quality its clients have come to rely on. Radio advertising and digital marketing have recently been added to the mix to expand brand awareness, complementing the chamber and networking connections that have long been the company’s most effective growth engine.

For a business that has been quietly keeping offices clean and clients confident since 1977, the future looks bright.

 

Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. is locally operated in Templeton, MA. For more information, contact Adam Paicos at or 978-894-6969.

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to celebrate accomplishments at 42nd Annual Business Meeting and Luncheon

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Governor Maura Healey to Deliver Keynote Address

The 42nd Annual Business Meeting and Luncheon for the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Great Wolf Lodge, 150 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg.

As the region’s cornerstone annual event, the Chamber’s Annual Business Meeting brings together hundreds of business and community leaders from across North Central Massachusetts to honor the people and accomplishments that are moving North Central Massachusetts forward.  In addition to the Chamber’s annual recognition awards and commencement for the Community Leadership Institute Class of 2026, the event will also feature a tabletop Business Expo to showcase local businesses.  The expo will provide exhibitors with a unique opportunity to reach business and community leaders from throughout North Central Massachusetts attending the event.   The Business Expo will begin at 10:30 a.m.; the Annual Meeting and Luncheon will run from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; and the Business Expo will close out the day from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m.

The Chamber’s Annual Meeting celebrates businesses and leaders working together to ensure a prosperous future for North Central Massachusetts, and is funded by the generous support of businesses and organizations who are committed to that goal, including:

Annual Meeting Sponsor: Fidelity Bank

Business Expo Sponsors: Fitchburg State University and Workers Credit Union

Supporting Sponsors: Great Wolf Lodge; Guild of St. Agnes of Worcester, Inc., Mount Wachusett Community College; Rocheleau Tool & Die; and Rockland Trust

Media Sponsor: FATV

This year’s keynote speaker is Governor Maura Healey, the 73rd Governor of Massachusetts. First elected in 2022, Governor Healey made history as the first woman elected Governor in Massachusetts history and the first openly lesbian Governor elected in the United States.  Prior to serving as Governor, she served two terms as Massachusetts Attorney General.  Since taking office, Governor Healey has focused on lowering the cost of health care, housing and energy, creating jobs, and growing Massachusetts’ economic leadership in cutting-edge sectors like life sciences, climatetech, advanced manufacturing and applied AI.  She will speak to the strength of Massachusetts’ economy, especially in the North Central region, and the urgency behind her efforts related to affordability and business growth.

Registrations for the Annual Business Meeting and Luncheon are being accepted through June 10. The cost is $65 per person for members and $80 per person for non-members and includes lunch.  Reservations are required.  Supporting sponsorships, expo tables and tables of ten are also available.  For more information about the event, contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600, ext. 222 or ext. 235, or via email at .

To register or learn more.

 

Driving Growth Through Investment, Support, and Regional Leadership

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Behind every strong local economy are the tools, resources, and partnerships that help businesses grow and that’s exactly where our work continues to make an impact.

Expanding Access to Small Business Funding

Through the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), we’re helping entrepreneurs access the capital they need to succeed, especially those who may not qualify for traditional financing.

Right now, the NCMDC manages 90 active loans totaling over $3.3 million, representing a significant investment in our local business community. Since October 2025 alone, we’ve closed 5 new loans totaling more than $280,000, supporting projects that have helped create or retain 49 jobs across the region.

These investments go even further by leveraging additional private funding, amplifying the impact of every dollar. And with more than $1.4 million currently in the pipeline, we’re seeing strong momentum continue into the year ahead.

Providing Hands-On Business Support

Access to funding is just one piece of the puzzle. Our economic development team also works directly with businesses to help them grow and succeed.

In just the first quarter of the fiscal year, we’ve delivered over 400 hours of technical assistance to local entrepreneurs, from startups to established companies looking to scale. This includes support with loan preparation, marketing strategies, and connecting businesses with the right partners and resources.

By combining direct support with a strong network of resource partners, we’re helping create long-term, sustainable growth across our region.

Launching a New Era for Tourism

We also marked a major milestone this year with the launch of North Central Massachusetts’ first Tourism Destination Marketing District on January 1, 2026.

This new, business-led initiative gives participating hotels a stronger voice in how tourism marketing funds are used, creating a more sustainable and locally driven approach to attracting visitors. While funding will begin rolling out later this spring, planning is already well underway.

This model not only strengthens our tourism strategy but also positions the region to compete more effectively for visitor spending, bringing new energy and economic activity to our communities.

Strengthening North Central Massachusetts Through Tourism

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This spring marks a strong return to momentum for Visit North Central Massachusetts (VNCM), the Chamber’s destination marketing arm, as we continue working to showcase everything our region has to offer.

Building Momentum for the Season Ahead

After a delayed start to the fiscal year due to state contract timing, our team hit the ground running in December, launching winter and spring marketing efforts designed to regain momentum and position the region for a successful tourism season.

Our strategy remains focused on highlighting North Central Massachusetts as an accessible, high-value New England destination. Campaigns centered around messages like “Everything You Love About New England… A Lot Closer to Home” and “Drive to, not through, North Central MA” continue to reinforce that our region is a destination worth exploring, not just passing through.

With strong media partnerships and renewed advertising efforts now underway, we’re building visibility at a critical time as we head into spring and summer.

Supporting Local Businesses Through Tourism

Tourism plays a key role in strengthening our communities, by bringing visitors to local shops, restaurants, attractions, and events that make our region unique.

While early winter performance reflected the impact of delayed funding, severe weather, and broader travel trends, our website and digital platforms continue to serve as important tools for connecting visitors with local experiences. From seasonal guides to an up-to-date events calendar, we’re helping showcase the people, places, and businesses that define North Central Massachusetts.

At the same time, our social media presence continues to grow, with a highly engaged audience of more than 49,000 followers across platforms. Even during slower periods, organic content highlighting local businesses, events, and experiences has remained strong keeping our communities front and center.

Looking Ahead

As marketing campaigns ramp up this spring, we expect to see continued growth in visibility, engagement, and visitation. More importantly, that growth translates into real impacts supporting small businesses, driving foot traffic, and bringing new energy into our downtowns and communities.

Because at the end of the day, tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors, it’s about creating vibrant places where people want to explore, connect, and come back to again and again.

Advocating for Strong Communities and a Thriving Local Economy

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Our advocacy work is rooted in something simple but powerful; building strong communities by supporting the businesses, policies, and partnerships that help our region thrive.

From Local Conversations to Regional Impact

We kicked off the year by connecting with newly elected leaders in Fitchburg and Leominster, an important step in building relationships that ensure the Chamber and our members are part of the conversation from the start. These early connections help position us as a trusted resource and partner as communities plan for the future.
That work continues on the ground every day. We stay actively engaged by attending city council meetings, monitoring local issues, and providing input on key decisions that impact both businesses and residents. Recent conversations around local tax policies in Clinton and Lancaster are a good example, while technical on the surface, these decisions play a major role in long-term community stability. Supporting balanced, sustainable approaches helps create an environment where businesses can grow, invest, and remain rooted in the region.
At the same time, we’re continuing to advocate for restoring tourism funding in Leominster. Tourism plays an important role in supporting small businesses, bringing energy to downtowns, and driving local economic activity, benefiting the broader community in the process.

Bringing Our Region’s Voice to Beacon Hill

Our advocacy efforts extend beyond the local level as we work closely with state leaders on issues that matter to North Central Massachusetts.
A key priority continues to be regional economic development funding, which supports small business lending, workforce development programs, and technical assistance across the region. These resources are essential to helping businesses start, grow, and succeed, while also strengthening the overall economic health of our communities.
We’re also advocating for updates to the state’s Tourism Trust Fund to ensure it keeps pace with today’s economy and continues to support effective destination marketing. Investments like these help bring visitors to the region, supporting local businesses and creating a ripple effect across the economy.
In addition, we collaborate with coalitions across the state to weigh in on broader policy issues that impact businesses and communities alike. Whether it’s tourism investment, economic development, or emerging legislation, our goal is to help shape solutions that balance growth, sustainability, and long-term success.

Strengthening Connections & Celebrating Success Across North Central Massachusetts

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At the Chamber, we’re focused on more than just supporting businesses, we’re building connections, creating opportunities, and celebrating the people and organizations that make our region thrive.

Making Connections More Accessible

Our Meet & Greets initiative continues to grow as a simple but impactful way for local businesses to connect. These smaller, more relaxed gatherings give members the chance to network with peers, meet Chamber staff, and stay up to date on programs and resources, all in a more approachable setting than our larger events.

We’ve intentionally hosted these events in communities outside our larger cities to make participation easier across the region. This past fall, Meet & Greets were held at Templewood Golf Course in Phillipston, Settlers Green in Lunenburg, and Ellinwood Country Club in Athol.

In January, we brought the event to downtown Athol in partnership with Athol Credit Union and the Polus Center, with a focus on local revitalization efforts. It was a great opportunity to connect businesses, community leaders, and local officials around shared goals.

Interested in hosting a future Meet & Greet? We’d love to hear from you.

Recognizing the People Behind the Progress

In 2025, we launched our Member Recognition Series as part of the Good Morning North Central breakfast program and it’s quickly become a favorite.

The series highlights businesses and organizations making a real impact, from milestone anniversaries to major community projects. So far, we’ve celebrated companies like Catania Oils (125 years), Fitchburg Art Museum (100 years), and Foster-Healey Real Estate (100 years), along with many others.

We’ve also presented Community Enhancement Awards to standout projects, including NewVue Communities’ , Fitchburg Arts Community, The Tocci Group’s redevelopment of the Foster-Healey Building, and Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School’s MVP Academy.

With new honorees featured at each breakfast, this program continues to spotlight the innovation, dedication, and growth happening across North Central Massachusetts.

Nominations are open year-round so if you know a business or organization making a difference, be sure to submit them!

Chamber Welcomes New Members at Orientation

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Business owners and professionals are invited to discover the power of Chamber membership at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s new member orientation on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Chamber’s main office, 860 South Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420.

Attendees will gain access to the Chamber’s full range of programs and resources, including strategic networking opportunities, influential government affairs programs, professional development seminars and tools, cost-effective advertising platforms, health insurance options and other specialized support.  The orientation is designed for new members, but is equally valuable for current members who want to get a refresher on their membership, or prospective members exploring Chamber opportunities. Following the orientation, attendees are encouraged to stay and connect informally with fellow new members. Light refreshments will be provided.

“This is a great opportunity for members and non-members to learn about the dynamic nature of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce,” said Roy Nascimento, president & CEO. “Attendees will learn about the important work that we do advancing the region as well as the tremendous resources we offer for businesses of all sizes and industries.”

Secure your spot at this complimentary member orientation by registering online at www.northcentralmass.com. Space is limited. For additional information, contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or ext. 235.

Can’t make the event?  Schedule a personalized Chamber introduction with Patrick O’Hara, Manager of Membership Recruitment & Engagement, at 978.353.7600 ext. 235 or to discover how Chamber membership can benefit your business.

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to host 3rd Annual Small Business Showcase and Entrepreneur Awards Reception

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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation will host the 3rd Annual Small Business Showcase & Entrepreneur Awards Reception on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Leominster. The evening will spotlight the hard work, creativity, and successes that drive our regional economy. With more than two dozen small businesses and resource providers exhibiting, the showcase offers an exceptional opportunity for meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, startup businesses, small business owners, and community partners.

Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar, while exploring exhibits from local small businesses showcasing their products and services. The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing individuals, startup businesses, and established small businesses that have demonstrated exceptional vision, resilience, and impact within our communities. Tatra Lappas will serve as emcee for the evening.

Sponsors include Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University; Corporate Sponsors Fidelity Bank and Workers Credit Union; Partner Sponsors Bay State Savings Bank, Main Street Bank and TD Bank; and Bag Sponsor Beacon Bank. Resource partners include MassDevelopment, NewVue Communities, Wachusett Business Incubator, Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Massachusetts Office of Business Development, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

The event is open to the general public and all businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, including those just starting out. Chamber members holding Business After Hours season tickets may use them for this event. Tickets are just $15 per person. Pre-registration is required. For more information about the event or to register online, please visit northcentralmass.com or contact Valerie Bruno at 978.353.7600, ext. 235, or at . Sponsorship and exhibitor table opportunities are also still available.

“The Small Business Showcase is a great opportunity for anyone in our community to meet and support the local entrepreneurs and small businesses that are driving our regional economy. From early-stage startups to established businesses, and the resource partners that help them succeed, it’s all under one roof for one evening, and everyone is welcome.” said Valerie Bruno, programs and events manager, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.

Future Leaders of North Central Massachusetts to Host Second Annual “Beyond the Runway” Fashion Show Fundraiser

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NBC 10’s Erin Logan and Telemundo Boston’s David De Matteis to Emcee March 28 Event at Great Wolf Lodge; Proceeds Benefit Chamber Foundation Scholarship Program

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce announces that its Future Leaders of North Central Massachusetts (FLNC) will host their second annual Beyond the Runway: Empowerment Through Style fashion show on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 3:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Great Wolf Lodge, 150 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg. Proceeds will benefit the Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program, supporting the next generation of leaders across North Central Massachusetts.

This year’s Carnival theme invites bold colors, dramatic silhouettes, dynamic movement, and imaginative storytelling to take center stage. Guests can expect a high-energy evening of fashion, live entertainment, carnival games, raffles, and community connection. The event is recommended for guests ages 13 and above.

“Our goal with Beyond the Runway is to create a space where creativity and leadership come together. Seeing young designers, students, and professionals collaborate on something exciting & elaborate while supporting the scholarship fund is a powerful reminder of the talent and potential we have right here in our region.” said Quinn O’Connell, Chair of the Future Leaders of North Central Massachusetts Leadership Committee and a Realtor with Keller Williams North Central. “I hope these students continue to pursue amazing things and maybe one day even return to the Chamber to get involved in a group like FLNC themselves. This organization has done so much for our community and has also had a meaningful impact on my own business, and I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of it.”

Now in its second year, the fashion show will feature nine designers and more than 30 models, including high school students from Ayer-Shirley Regional High School, Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School, Leominster High School, and St. Bernard’s High School.

Featured designers include Vieira Luxe Couture, Janini Designs, Michaela Lee Designs, S’mbles Designs, Make Shift Studios, LLeya P, Bella Donna Consignment Boutique, Daumos, and a collection by Zoe Kerr, a student designer from Ayer-Shirley Regional High School.

The evening will be emceed by Erin Logan, reporter for NBC 10, and David De Matteis, Venezuelan journalist and reporter for Noticiero Telemundo Nueva Inglaterra, airing on WNEU Telemundo Boston. Entertainment includes mentalist Shawn Mullins, aerial artistry by Aerialicious Entertainment’s Gina DeFretas, carnival games, a photo booth, and live DJ music by 603 Beat Collaborative. Doors open at 3:45 p.m., with games and entertainment beginning at 4:00 p.m., the fashion show taking the stage at 5:30 p.m., and the evening concluding at approximately 8:00 p.m.

Raffle prizes include a ski and stay package from Great Wolf Lodge and Wachusett Ski Mountain, a dumpster rental from Bin There Dump That (valued at over $500), pickleball packages from Rt. 12 Pickle, spa prizes from Revital Med Spa (valued at over $200), golf at Ellinwood Country Club, Hanover Theater tickets, wellness packages from Empower Collective, an Adirondack chair, restaurant gift card, and automotive detail contributed by Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School, with more prizes to be announced!

All proceeds from the event will be dedicated exclusively to the Chamber Foundation’s Young Professional Scholarship program, which works to remove financial barriers and open doors for the next generation of community leaders across the region.

The event is made possible through the generous support of Community Champion Sponsor Great Wolf Lodge; Spotlight Sponsors Edward Jones and DMH Electric; Catering Sponsor E.L. Harvey & Sons; Carnival Sponsor Creative Events; and additional sponsors Fitchburg Access Television, 603 Beat Collaborative, Pop by Posh, and Hillside Florist & Gifts.

Tickets are on sale now. General admission is $35. A VIP Half Table (seats 4) is $125 and a VIP Table of 8 is $200, with appetizers, performances, the fashion show, and a cash bar included. To register online or for more information, please visit www.northcentralmass.com.

About Future Leaders of North Central Massachusetts (FLNC)

Future Leaders of North Central Massachusetts is a program of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce dedicated to connecting, developing, and fostering the next generation of regional leaders. Through networking events, professional development opportunities, and community engagement initiatives, FLNC empowers young professionals to grow personally and professionally while strengthening the future of North Central Massachusetts.

About the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is a business advocacy and economic development organization. The Chamber’s mission is to advance the economy of North Central Massachusetts and strengthen its quality of place by connecting businesses, people, and ideas. The Chamber is the largest chamber of commerce in the region, serving hundreds of member businesses of all sizes from virtually all industries in the twenty-seven communities that comprise North Central Massachusetts. The Chamber was named 2023 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and also received a five-star accreditation from the accrediting board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Find the Chamber online at northcentralmass.com or on Twitter at @NCMChamber.

Building Businesses.
Building Communities.