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.
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.
For anyone who has ever treasured a signed jersey, a piece of Hollywood history, or a photograph capturing an iconic moment, the Gallery at 759 Main Street in Fitchburg is a destination unlike any other. Just over two and a half years into its home on Main Street, this one-of-a-kind memorabilia shop is already becoming a landmark in a city on the rise.
The Gallery specializes in custom framed Sports, Hollywood, Music, and Historical memorabilia, serving collectors and enthusiasts both through its brick-and-mortar store and through its online presence. With over 1,000 pieces on display, the sheer breadth of the collection is something co-owner Roy Crawford is proud of. “If you collect any of the above,” he says, “this is the place you would want to visit for sure.” Co-owner John Sepulveda puts it just as simply: “A visit to our store is like taking a walk down memory lane.”
What sets the Gallery at 759 apart is its commitment to unique, iconic custom framing — pieces you simply won’t find anywhere else. The team prides itself on creating a space that is, as Crawford describes it, “consumer friendly, comfortable, warm and inviting.” Every member of the staff is knowledgeable about the products they offer and ready to answer any question a visitor might have. “We have fun talking to our customers regarding their passions,” Sepulveda adds, capturing the spirit of a shop where the love of collecting is always front and center.
There’s plenty to discover beyond the framed collectibles as well. Visitors will find embedded video memorabilia capturing singular moments in sports and cinema, and an eye-catching collection of Pop Art; something unexpected waiting around every corner.
The story behind the Gallery is as compelling as the items on its shelves. Sepulveda, a lifelong resident of Fitchburg, has practiced medicine in the city for 50 years, following in the footsteps of his father, the late Dr. Robert Babineau Sr., a renowned physician in the community. Opening the Gallery at 759 Main has been, in his words, “a labor of love” — a second career built on four decades of buying and collecting memorabilia alongside his business partner Crawford.
Both owners are excited about what lies ahead for the Gallery and for Fitchburg itself. Sepulveda sees the store as part of the city’s broader revitalization: “As a lifelong resident of ‘The Burg,’ I wanted our unique memorabilia store to be part of the change — bringing big city quality retail to our town.” Crawford echoes that sentiment, describing the Gallery’s location right on Main Street as central to offering “a very unique shopping experience.” Both are confident that as word spreads, new visitors will be amazed by what they find.
And word is spreading. Crawford notes that while the Gallery maintains a website and advertises across social media platforms, their biggest and best advertiser has turned out to be word of mouth — a testament to the impression the store leaves on everyone who walks through the door.
Community involvement is a priority for both owners going forward. The Gallery is looking forward to hosting charity auctions, fundraisers, silent auctions, and after-hours meet-and-greet events, bringing the community together around a shared love of sports, history, and culture.
As new members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, Crawford and Sepulveda are eager to connect with the broader business community. Crawford is particularly excited to meet and network with fellow business owners at Chamber events, while Sepulveda hopes to collaborate on joint events at the Gallery and at the Wine Bar next door.
The future is bright for the Gallery at 759 Main Street. As more people discover what Fitchburg has to offer — and what this remarkable store has in store — the walk down memory lane is only going to get better.
To learn more, visit the Gallery at 759 Main Street in Fitchburg or explore their collection online at or by calling 978-503-0901.
Meet One-on-One with State Economic Development Officials
Chamber Hosting Office Hours On February 25th
(North Central, MA) – In a partnership with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD), MassDevelopment, and MassHire, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce will be hosting state economic development officials for one-on-one appointments with local developers, manufacturers, and business owners. The meetings are an opportunity to discuss any specific matters related to their business or the expansion of their business, as well as to review state resources available to support business growth and expansion.
Kevin Kuros, Central Massachusetts Director for MOBD; Anne Szender McCarthy, Vice President, Business Development of MassDevelopment; Chuck Merrill, Senior Loan Officer for MassDevelopment; and Scott Percifull, Program Specialist for MassHire, will be available at the Chamber office by appointment on Wednesday, February 25, between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. The appointments are in thirty-minute increments and are first-come, first-served. The meetings are free and confidential, available on a non-discriminatory basis, and are handicapped accessible.
MOBD is the state’s economic development office and manages the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), which provides tax credits for qualifying business expansion projects. In addition, MOBD directors are navigators in the state’s new Business Front Door portal, through which businesses can manage their interactions with state agencies and related quasi-public agencies. MOBD is also the home of the Massachusetts Center for Employee Ownership (MassCEO), which provides resources and information for businesses exploring employee ownership models, often as a succession planning strategy.
MassDevelopment, the state’s development finance agency and land bank, works with businesses, nonprofits, banks, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the Commonwealth. During FY2025, MassDevelopment financed or managed 409 projects generating investment of more than $4.65 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are estimated to create or support 25,246 jobs and build or preserve 2,867 housing units. MassDevelopment has a variety of financing programs to address the needs of small businesses, from equipment to real estate to working capital.
The MassHire Rapid Response team provides layoff prevention, early intervention re-employment, layoff management, and outplacement services to companies and their employees. Additionally, they offer employment and training resources, including assistance with recruitment, hiring, and tax credit programs.
To schedule an appointment, contact Sandie Cataldo, Senior Economic Development Manager at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce at 978.353.7600 ext. 232 or via email at .
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Kat Deal will be serving as coordinator for the Community Leadership Institute (CLI) in a part-time capacity.
Kat returns to the Chamber after previously serving for over five years as Programs and Events Manager, during which she successfully managed the CLI program working alongside Dr. Michael Goodman Greenwood. Her extensive experience with leadership development and deep knowledge of the CLI program will ensure strong continuity for this signature initiative.
“We’re thrilled to have Kat back leading our Community Leadership Institute,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “Her passion for leadership development, knowledge of leading community initiatives, and her proven track record with CLI make her the ideal person to guide this important program.”
The Community Leadership Institute is a comprehensive leadership development program designed to cultivate emerging leaders in North Central Massachusetts. Through interactive sessions, community projects, and networking opportunities, participants develop the skills and connections needed to make meaningful contributions to the region.
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We have received several reports from members indicating that they have received fraudulent emails impersonating Chamber staff, including our President & CEO, requesting assistance with vendor payments. These emails typically ask the recipient to make a payment on the Chamber’s behalf using Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or ACH, with a promise of reimbursement by check.
This is a common scam and is not legitimate.
Chamber staff will never ask members to make payments on our behalf to third-party vendors or request this type of payment assistance via email.
We would like to remind members to be cautious and always be on the lookout for possible scams and frauds. Online fraud is on the rise and businesses continue to be a target of thieves and scammers. Often fraudsters try to impersonate trusted institutions, like your bank/credit union, government agencies, or trusted non-profits in the community like the chamber of commerce.
Tips to protect yourself:
Check the actual sender email address, not just the display name
Be suspicious of urgent payment requests to vendors
When in doubt, always contact the Chamber directly by phone to confirm any emails or solicitations you receive
Nationally, the Police Athletic League (PAL) is a network of community-based youth development programs operating in partnership with local police departments and nonprofit organizations across the United States. PAL’s mission centers on using positive activities, mentorship, sports, and enrichment programs to help young people grow, learn, and build stronger relationships with law enforcement and their communities.
Locally, the Police Athletic League of North Central Massachusetts, based in Fitchburg, has been serving youth since its founding in 1980 and continues to make a meaningful impact throughout Central Massachusetts.
According to spokesperson Genero Hall, “We serve Central Mass youth and organize leagues, voluntarily introducing young people to a variety of programs while connecting diverse youth with leaders in our community and local police.” Hall emphasized the organization’s future goals, adding, “Our aim is to grow the organization as well as our relationships with local businesses. Together, we can reach more youth and provide opportunities through sponsorships for families in need. We want to expand events and programs through collaboration with businesses and nonprofit organizations.”
The City of Fitchburg’s website further defines PAL’s mission: “It is the mission of the volunteers of the North Central Massachusetts Police Athletic/Activities League to offer youth a positive alternative to negative influences by merging sports, cultural, educational, recreational, and civic activities. PAL provides young people the opportunity to know city officials and community volunteers as friends, mentors, and role models, helping them develop leadership, self-respect, and respect for others—building good citizens for tomorrow.”
When asked what sets the Fitchburg PAL apart, Hall explained, “Many of our participants are children of parents who also grew up in PAL leagues and programs. We have a simple model—give back to the community, and the community gives back. Everything we do centers on serving youth and honoring the volunteers who make PAL possible.”
Hall described the organization’s workplace culture using four words: “Reliable, professional, team-oriented, and organized.” He added, “All voices matter and are considered in every decision.” Reflecting on doing business in North Central Massachusetts, Hall noted, “The diversity and support here are special. There’s opportunity for everyone to succeed and achieve their goals.”
PAL of North Central Massachusetts is deeply involved in the community through grants and sponsorships that help organize youth events, leagues, and start-up programs.
Regarding PAL’s connection to the Chamber of Commerce, Hall shared, “I once thought the Chamber couldn’t benefit my organization.” After meeting with Patrick O’Hara, Manager of Membership Recruitment & Engagement, his perspective changed. “I realized what I was missing by not being part of the Chamber. They make the process welcoming—not intimidating—and it feels like working with friends who connect businesses to one another. If I’d known that sooner, I would have joined years ago.” Hall added, “The customer service is excellent, and I look forward to continuing our relationship with the Chamber.”
When asked what he values most as a Chamber member, Hall said, “Quick responses, open communication, and an accessible location. Questions are always welcomed and answered.”
Hall credits community volunteers as his strongest influence and says the future of PAL “looks great.” He noted recent growth, including 40 new sign-ups, the addition of new leagues requested by parents, and the formation of a youth committee focused on expanding arts, culture, and leadership programs.
PAL primarily promotes its programs through its website, social media, and flyers. “Our most successful outreach,” Hall explained, “has been schools posting flyers digitally on their websites, sending flyers home with students, and using yard signs with QR codes.”
Hall is especially proud to be PAL’s first African American president, saying it “reflects the success of the program and our mission for positive change.” He considers his greatest professional achievement as president to be “having the opportunity to contribute to and build upon the legacy of PAL.”
As the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce welcomes new team members in 2026, we want to take a moment to express our sincere appreciation to two valued colleagues who recently departed.
Bea Lee served as our Loan Portfolio Manager, managing our microlending and revolving loan fund operations. Throughout her six year tenure, Bea worked tirelessly to support small businesses and entrepreneurs across North Central Massachusetts, helping to deploy critical capital and resources to our regional business community. Her dedication to our economic development mission made a meaningful impact. Lee left to accept a position with Bay State Savings Bank.
Maureen Babcock served as Executive Assistant for over two years, providing essential support to Chamber operations, governance, and member services. Maureen’s professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to our mission were instrumental in keeping our organization running smoothly and serving our 650+ member businesses effectively. Babcock left to pursue other opportunities.
“We are deeply grateful for Bea’s and Maureen’s contributions and appreciate their service to the Chamber,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “We wish them both the best in their future endeavors.”
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of four new team members, reflecting continued growth and commitment to serving the regional business community.
Jessica Yakusik has joined the Chamber as Executive Assistant. In this role, Yakusik will provide board support and overall administrative tasks for the Chamber and its affiliates while also being the main point of contact for members.
With more than 11 years of operations and administrative experience, she comes to the Chamber from CapEx FSC, LLC, in Leominster, where she worked as Facilities and Support Operations Manager and oversaw daily office and warehouse operations. Prior to that, she spent nearly 12 years at Regional Home Care. A resident of Leominster, she is currently pursuing an associate’s degree in business administration at Mount Wachusett Community College. She can be reached at or 978.353.7600 extension 222.
Jon Ashley joins the team as Marketing and Communications Manager. He will oversee the marketing and communications strategy across the Chamber and its affiliate organizations. Ashley will also play a key role in the new Fitchburg Tourism Destination Marketing District, which launched on January 1, 2026.
Ashley brings versatile experience in content creation, brand storytelling, and digital marketing. Most recently, he served as Sales Marketing and Business Development Manager at Celerity DCX (a Paragon UK company), where he led the creative strategy for global enterprise marketing. Prior to that, he was Associate Director of Marketing and Communications at Cushing Academy. A resident of Leominster, he holds a master’s degree in divinity from Boston University, and a bachelor’s degree in youth work from the University of Chester in the United Kingdom. He can be reached at or 978.353.7600 extension 240.
“These four additions strengthen our ability to serve our members and advance the economy of North Central Massachusetts. Each brings unique skills and experience that will enhance our work across economic development, marketing, administration, and community engagement.”
– Roy Nascimento, President and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Corina “Cory” Wells has joined the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC) as Loan Operations Administrator. As the economic development arm of the Chamber, she will be responsible for managing NCMDC’s microlending and revolving loan fund operations, working with borrowers and lending partners, and ensuring compliance with program requirements and funding guidelines. Wells brings significant experience in operations management, lending, and grant-funded program administration. Most recently, she served as Energy Operations and Vendor Coordinator at Community Action of Pioneer Valley, where she oversaw more than $12 million in grant-funded weatherization and energy assistance programs. She has also held various lending roles at Middlesex Savings Bank.
A resident of Orange, Wells earned a master’s degree in business administration with a focus on community economic development, as well as a bachelor’s degree in international business, from Southern New Hampshire University. She is also a licensed real estate agent in Massachusetts and a Certified Volunteer Tax Preparer. Wells can be reached at or 978.353.7600 extension 228.
Oriana Cabas Jimenez joined the Chamber as an intern for the Spring 2026 semester. Jimenez is a communications media major with a minor in graphic design at Fitchburg State University. As the Chamber has a longstanding partnership with FSU’s communications department, this internship will provide Jimenez with valuable professional experience. She will be working directly with the Chamber’s programs and events manager, and marketing manager, on various projects throughout the semester. Oriana can be reached at .
As your dynamic partner in North Central Massachusetts, we continue to drive initiatives that strengthen our business community and foster regional growth. Our impact spans from direct business support to innovative community development, and we are pleased to share these updates with you that are not covered elsewhere in the newsletter.
THE STRATEGY TABLE: Collaboration breeds innovation, and we’re creating new opportunities for members to tackle business challenges together. In partnership with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Clark University, the NCMDC launched “The Strategy Table”, a new monthly program where members and loan clients can address pressing business challenges, exchange ideas, and collaborate on growth strategies. This initiative is designed to foster problem-solving through collective expertise and provide a supportive peer network to help businesses overcome obstacles and accelerate growth. Following a successful introduction in September, the first full session began in November. This program exemplifies our commitment to creating spaces where regional businesses can learn from each other’s experiences and build the collaborative relationships that drive sustainable growth. The Strategy Table offers a powerful complement to our one-on-one business assistance, creating a community of practice where shared wisdom strengthens every participant’s business acumen.
SMALL BUSINESS LENDING: Strong capital plus strong partnerships equals stronger communities – that’s the formula driving the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), our Chamber’s economic development arm, as it expands access to crucial small business funding. As of September 30, 2025, the NCMDC loan portfolio stands at 87 loans totaling $3,274,410.59, representing significant investment in local entrepreneurs who often can’t secure traditional financing. For the fiscal year ending September 30th, we closed on a total of 20 loans totaling $722,228. These loans, ranging from $1,000 to $121,500, included twelve SBA loans, six RRF loans, and two EDA loans, creating or saving 73 jobs across our region while revitalizing properties and strengthening our shared economy. Beyond the direct impact, these strategic investments leveraged an additional $380,814 from private sources and banking partners, multiplying every dollar invested. Looking ahead, momentum continues building with a robust pipeline. As of October 23, 2025, we have a total of $1,491,313 in our pipeline, including two loans totaling $215,313 that have been approved but not yet closed; five loans totaling $385,000 in loan requests being reviewed; and twelve loan requests totaling $891,000 that are in the early stages and still awaiting review. NCMDC continues strengthening our regional business ecosystem, creating opportunities for all Chamber members through expanded customer bases and more robust supply chains.
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE: Strong businesses build strong communities, and our economic development team continues proving that targeted support makes all the difference. Through September 30, we’ve delivered 2,093 hours of hands-on technical assistance to local entrepreneurs and small businesses—from ambitious startups to established operations ready to scale. Our comprehensive approach focuses on preparing businesses for financing success through our development corporation, providing both pre-loan guidance to strengthen applications and post-loan support to ensure sustainable growth. We also assist with marketing strategies and connecting businesses with the right resources at the right time. Beyond our direct support, we serve as connectors, linking businesses with specialized expertise through our partnerships with other resource partners. This collaborative network creates a ripple effect that strengthens our entire regional economy and benefits all Chamber members through increased local business activity and job creation.
TOURISM DESTINATION MARKETING DISTRICT: Local control over tourism promotion is becoming a reality for our region. The Chamber has been working with hospitality industry members throughout the region to explore the potential for tourism destination marketing districts (TDMD). This is a business-led initiative that gives our region greater control over tourism promotion, enhances regional efforts, and reduces reliance on state funding, allowing local businesses to directly invest in and shape marketing efforts that drive visitors to their establishments. In October, with the support of our member Great Wolf Lodge, the Chamber presented a petition to the Fitchburg City Council to formally establish a district for Fitchburg. It was approved and will commence in January 2026, marking a significant milestone in our region’s tourism development strategy. We plan to explore expanding this model to other communities throughout the region. This collaborative approach to destination marketing positions North Central Massachusetts to compete more effectively for visitor spending while giving local hospitality businesses direct influence over promotional strategies that impact their bottom lines.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM EXPANSION: Investing in tomorrow’s workforce starts with supporting today’s students. As part of our strategic plan, the Chamber has set an ambitious goal to significantly expand our Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program—both our traditional scholarships and innovative non-traditional scholarships awarded each May. These scholarships make a real difference, helping students pursue higher education and career training while building the skilled workforce our region needs to thrive. As we enter this year’s scholarship season, we’ve launched a comprehensive campaign to engage corporate sponsors who share our commitment to developing local talent. We’re reaching out directly to member companies who are well-positioned to make this meaningful investment, sending personalized letters to prospective sponsors while promoting the opportunity across our social media channels and member communications. To support these outreach efforts, we’ve developed compelling new promotional materials that showcase the program’s impact and make it easy for businesses to participate. Here’s what makes this program special: 100% of every scholarship sponsorship goes directly to students – not a single dollar is used for administrative costs. Every contribution makes a direct, tangible impact on a young person’s educational journey and future career success. Our non-traditional scholarship committee deserves special recognition for their proactive approach, actively cultivating relationships with potential sponsors to support students pursuing alternative educational pathways, including vocational training, certificates, and career programs that lead directly to in-demand jobs in our region. By expanding our scholarship program, we’re doing more than helping individual students achieve their dreams. We’re investing in the future prosperity of North Central Massachusetts, demonstrating our business community’s commitment to workforce development, and ensuring local young people have the resources they need to build successful careers right here at home.
MANUFACTURING DIRECTORY: Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of our regional economy, and we’re developing a comprehensive resource to showcase this vital sector. Throughout the Fall, our staff has been busy researching and compiling detailed information about manufacturers across the region for our upcoming North Central Massachusetts Manufacturing Directory. This will be the most comprehensive and locally-focused compilation of manufacturing information in the region, serving as an essential guide for businesses, economic development professionals, and organizations looking to connect with local manufacturers. After nearly four years since our last edition in 2022, we’re bringing back this valuable resource in full color. The directory offers manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers to the manufacturing industry an excellent opportunity to promote their capabilities and connect with potential customers and partners. This reference guide will be used throughout the year, providing lasting value and targeted exposure to decision-makers in the manufacturing community. The directory underscores our region’s manufacturing strength and helps businesses discover the depth of industrial capabilities available right here in North Central Massachusetts.
JOBS BOARD: In today’s competitive job market, connecting the right talent with the right opportunities has never been more critical – which is why our WorkNorthCentral.com jobs board continues to serve as a vital tool for Chamber members. From January 1 to November 4, 2025, we’ve seen strong engagement with over 1,224 job opportunities posted and more than 25,600 page views, with 75% of those views from new visitors to the site—demonstrating the platform’s reach beyond our existing network. Chamber members can post unlimited job openings at no cost, providing another valuable marketing channel for your employment opportunities while supporting regional workforce retention and growth. Submit your listings today!
CHAMBER GIFT CARDS: Keeping dollars local helps drive economic growth, and our Gift Local program through Yiftee’s Mastercard-based e-gift card platform continues supporting shop local efforts with 45 participating merchants. From January 1 through November 4, 2025, we sold 47 eGift Cards totaling $1,735 in value, with 43 cards redeemed for $1,752.62 at local businesses – demonstrating healthy circulation and use throughout our merchant network. As we enter the busy holiday season, where the majority of cards are traditionally sold as employee and client gifts, this program offers members an excellent opportunity to keep spending local while supporting our regional economy. The program remains popular for holiday gifts and business recognition awards, providing a practical solution for companies looking to celebrate achievements while strengthening the regional business ecosystem. Yiftee has introduced new Tap-to-Pay functionality for mobile wallets, improving the checkout experience for customers and streamlining transactions for merchants. As the holiday season approaches, now is the perfect time for eligible members to join as redemption locations or for all members to consider these cards for holiday and client gifting—keeping spending power right here in our communities where it makes the biggest difference.
ACCOUNTING: Sound financial management underpins everything we do. Our auditors have completed the FY25 audit for the Chamber, Chamber Foundation, and Johnny Appleseed Trail Association without incident, reflecting our continued commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility. The related tax returns for these organizations and Chambers Insurance were also filed on schedule. The North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation’s fiscal year-end was September 30, so we have engaged our auditors and begun that audit process. These clean audits demonstrate our stewardship of member investments and ensure we maintain the financial integrity that supports our mission of strengthening the regional business community.
SOLAR INITIATIVE: Sustainability initiatives that deliver tangible economic benefits exemplify our practical approach to supporting regional business needs. Since the program’s inception, our solar initiative has generated over $4 million in Net Metering Credits for participating manufacturers. This innovative program demonstrates how collaborative Chamber initiatives can substantially reduce operating costs for member businesses while supporting environmental sustainability goals. As energy costs continue to rise, this program’s success highlights our commitment to developing creative solutions that strengthen our members’ bottom lines while positioning our region as forward-thinking and environmentally responsible.
RIBBON CUTTINGS: Celebrating member success stories strengthens our entire business community. The Fall has been a particularly busy period with eleven ribbon cuttings and member celebrations since September 1, showcasing the vitality and growth happening across North Central Massachusetts. These included Orchard Hills Athletic Club, the Town of Ashburnham’s new Play and Gathering Park, GreenDrop, Pop by Posh, Edward Jones, Aspire, Growing Places Waterford Street Regional Food Center, Welcome Home Furnishings & Decor, Coakley Family Dental’s 50th Anniversary celebration, Busy Bees Preschool Center’s 50th Anniversary, and Opportunities for Hope’s Neddy Latimer House. Each of these celebrations represents investment in our region, job creation, and enhanced services for residents and businesses alike. These milestone events also provide valuable networking opportunities where members connect, build relationships, and discover new collaboration possibilities. We’re proud to stand alongside our members as they reach these important milestones and look forward to celebrating many more success stories in the year ahead. If your business is planning an expansion, relocation, or significant milestone, contact us to explore how a Chamber ribbon cutting can amplify your announcement and connect you with the broader business community.
We value your input on how the Chamber can better support your organizations! Share your thoughts at .
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