Chamber Unveils Bold 2026-2028 Strategic Plan: Building on Excellence, Reaching for New Heights
After earning recognition as 2023 Chamber of the Year, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce sets ambitious targets to strengthen regional economy, member services and quality of life
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its affiliates have adopted an ambitious three-year strategic plan that builds on recent successes while charting new territory in workforce development, advocacy, and regional competitiveness.
Approved in September 2025, the plan represents the Chamber’s continued commitment to strategic, measurable growth – building on the momentum and achievements of previous strategic plans
“This plan isn’t just about what we’re going to do – it’s about the measurable impact we’re going to have on North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy M. Nascimento, IOM, CCE, President & CEO.
“We’ve proven we can deliver results. Now we’re raising the bar even higher.”
Game-Changing New Initiatives
Manufacturing Council Expansion: Specialized working groups will address sector-specific challenges in advanced manufacturing, food processing, and precision manufacturing.
Transportation Management Association: A new Chamber affiliate will address regional transportation gaps that serve as barriers for workers and residents.
Tourism Destination Marketing District: Partnering with lodging members to leverage resources and dramatically expand destination marketing efforts.
Regional Business Investment Fund: Recapitalization will support priority real estate development projects, including utilizing the newly established North Central Massachusetts Land Bank.
Workforce Development: Enhancing workforce programming to strengthen employer partnerships and increase regional talent pipeline effectiveness
Expanded Inclusion Initiatives: Targeted recruitment and engagement of young professionals, women, Latinos, and underrepresented populations as members and leaders, with a target of 15% increase.
Tony Fields, Chair of the Chamber Board of Directors, emphasized the plan’s measurable approach: “We’re not just setting aspirational goals, we’re committing to specific targets that will hold us accountable. This ensures we’re always focusing our energy where it will have the greatest impact.”
Built on Core Values
Six core values guide all Chamber initiatives:
Integrity • Excellence • Focus • Catalytic Leadership • Inclusion • Innovation
“We’re committed to ensuring that the Chamber reflects the full diversity of North Central Massachusetts,” said Allie Catlin, Vice-Chair of the Board. “These values keep us grounded while we pursue ambitious goals.”
As the Chamber embarks on this three-year journey, success will require continued partnership from the entire regional community.
“With this strategic plan as our roadmap, and with the continued support of our members and regional partners, North Central Massachusetts will continue to strengthen its position as the best region in the state to live, work, raise a family, or build a business,” Nascimento said.
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