Abogando por comunidades sólidas y una economía local próspera

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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.

Fortaleciendo Conexiones y Celebrando el Éxito en el Norte Central de 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 Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts and the Corporación de Desarrollo del Norte Central de Massachusetts 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.

Member Spotlight: Gallery at 759 Main Street – A Walk Down Memory Lane in the Heart of Fitchburg

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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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:                   February 13, 2026

Contact:             Roy Nascimento, President & CEO

Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts

Telephone:         978.353.7600 ext. 225


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 .                                                           

Chamber Welcomes Back Kat Deal as CLI Coordinator

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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.

For more information about the Community Leadership Institute, visit www.northcentralmass.com/community-leadership-institute or contact Kat Deal at .

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Chamber Fraud Alert

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Scam Alert: Fraudulent Emails Impersonating Chamber Staff
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

For more information, read our Fraud Prevention article.

Member Spotlight: The Police Athletic League of North Central Massachusetts – A Great Organization Supporting Local Youth

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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.”