E-Newsletter
An Electronic Publication of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Inside this edition, you’ll discover the latest Chamber initiatives and success stories from across our region. From economic development projects and upcoming networking events to policy updates and workforce training opportunities, we’re keeping you connected to what matters most for your business and North Central Massachusetts.
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is here to help – with trusted resources, a strong business network, and a support system to keep your business and the region moving forward
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 and morning mixer. The event will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 8:30-10:00 a.m. at the Chamber’s main office, 860 South Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420.
Attendees will gain insider access to the Chamber’s comprehensive suite of business-building 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. The orientation will conclude with a special morning mixer for new members to connect and engage with other business and community leaders. Coffee and a light continental breakfast will be provided.
“Esta es una gran oportunidad para miembros y no miembros de aprender sobre la naturaleza dinámica de la Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts”, dijo Roy Nascimento, presidente y director ejecutivo. “Los asistentes aprenderán sobre el importante trabajo que realizamos para hacer avanzar la región, así como los tremendos recursos que ofrecemos para empresas de todos los tamaños e industrias”.”
Secure your spot at this complimentary member orientation and mixer by registering online at www.northcentralmass.com. Space is limited. For additional information, contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600 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.
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation is excited to announce that applications for the 2025 Scholarship Program are now being accepted from local high school students in North Central Massachusetts.
Each year, the Chamber Foundation awards approximately 25 college scholarships to support students continuing their education, made possible by contributions from members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. Beginning in 2025, the Foundation will also introduce a new non-traditional scholarship specifically for students pursuing trade programs or vocational training, expanding opportunities for diverse career pathways.
Students interested in applying for a scholarship in 2025 should reach out to their high school guidance department. Each school in the Chamber’s service area can submit a limited number of scholarship applicants each year. These applications will be reviewed by a committee of Chamber members. The deadline to apply is Monday, March 3, 2025.
Since establishing its scholarship program, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation has awarded over one million dollars in scholarships. Many of these awards are made possible through contributions from Chamber members. Scholarships offered through the Chamber Foundation are often named in honor of prominent members of the North Central Massachusetts business community, whose philanthropy and commitment have significantly shaped the region.
The Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on improving the area through charitable activities. Funds raised by the Foundation are primarily used for education and workforce development initiatives, as well as charitable activities in North Central Massachusetts. This includes scholarships for eligible applicants pursuing education and grants to support economic and community development projects.
Donations to support the Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program are greatly appreciated. Contributions can be mailed to the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation at 860 South St., Fitchburg, MA 01420, or made securely online at www.northcentralmass.com/donate.
For those interested in endowing a named scholarship in honor of a prominent business or community leader, please contact Teresa Roberts, Director of Finance, or Roy Nascimento, President, at 978.353.7600 ext. 227 or 225.
For more information on the North Central Massachusetts Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program or to view a list of the named scholarships, please visit northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600 ext. 222.
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce will host its next Good Morning North Central breakfast program on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 7:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Great Wolf Lodge, 150 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg, MA. The January edition is sponsored by Rollstone Bank and Trust.
The featured speakers will discuss the new professional football team coming to North Central Massachusetts and provide insight into the state’s economic competitiveness.
Andre Reed is a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (Class of 2014) and current Commissioner of the Entertainment Football League Association (ENTFLA) and the Fitchburg Heroes professional football team. During his 16-year NFL career, primarily with the Buffalo Bills, Reed earned seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections and appeared in four Super Bowls. He ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches. Through his Andre Reed Foundation, he helps underprivileged children reach their full potential. In his current role, Reed leads ENTFLA’s mission to bring professional sports-entertainment to underserved markets through fan-focused events.
Doug Howgate serves as President of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, bringing extensive public policy experience to the role. Prior to joining MTF, he held key positions including Senior Policy Advisor to Senate President Karen Spilka and Budget Director at the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. Howgate holds degrees from Holy Cross and Georgetown’s McCourt School of Public Policy.
La serie de desayunos "Good Morning North Central" es el programa de más larga trayectoria de la Cámara. La serie de desayunos comenzó en 1984 y ha evolucionado hasta convertirse en un programa matutino de alto perfil, dinámico y educativo, dirigido a ejecutivos, gerentes de alto nivel, profesionales y dueños de negocios de todo el centro-norte de Massachusetts. A lo largo de los años, los oradores han incluido gobernadores, senadores, destacados líderes empresariales y cívicos, autores y celebridades.
Pre-registration is required. The cost to attend the event is just $35 for Chamber members/$50 for non-members and includes a breakfast buffet. For more information or to register, please visit www.northcentralmass.com or contact Valerie Bruno at 978.353.7600 ext. 235 or via email at .
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One-on-one meetings available to help you get the most out of your SDO certification or learn how to get certified for FREE if you haven’t yet!
Why get certified?
Stand out to buyers who are actively seeking diverse and small businesses like yours. It’s a game-changer for growth and visibility!
Meet with: John Fitzpatrick
Direction of Supplier Diversity
Programs Massachusetts Supplier
Diversity Office (SDO)
Date: Tuesday, April 29th
Times: 10:00 AM & 3:00 PM
Location: North Central MA Chamber of Commerce, 860 South Street, Fitchburg, MA
The City of Fitchburg Health Department will again partner with the Fitchburg Police Department to hold Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 10am-12 noon in front of the Fitchburg Legislative Building, 700 Main Street.
This initiative offers a safe, convenient and responsible way to dispose of unused prescription drugs and get them out of circulation. Residents are urged to gather unused, unwanted or expired prescription drugs and drop them off – you may “drive up and drop off” without leaving your vehicle. Although not required, labels containing personal information may be removed or blackened out. All materials are collected anonymously and will be taken directly by a police officer to a regional drop off site to be incinerated. Residents are also reminded that there is a permanent kiosk located in the lobby of the Police Station located at 20 Elm Street which is accessible 24/7.
Held twice a year across the nation, Prescription Drug Take Back Day addresses a crucial public safety and public health issue. The Drug Enforcement Agency’s Take Back Day events provide an opportunity for Americans to prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths.
Fitchburg Outreach & Prevention will have substance use disorder information and Narcan available. The Community Engagement team from the Fitchburg Police Department will also have a resource table.

In the photo; Left to Right; Mariśca Mozeleski, Fitchburg Public Library; Alison Burns, Enterprise Bank; Alfred Rivera, Fitchburg Public Library; Cheryl Gaudreau, Enterprise Bank; Jean Tenander, Fitchburg Public Library; Deb Hinkle, executive director of the Fitchburg Public Library; and Jon Bullock, Enterprise Bank.
The Fitchburg Public Library announced Enterprise Bank, a true community bank with a deep sense of mission and purpose, has pledged $50,000 to the Library’s Offering a World of Learning (OWL) Capital Campaign. The Bank has a Fitchburg branch location at 420 John Fitch Highway for over 20 years.
The OWL Capital Campaign, a visionary initiative to enhance the facilities of the Fitchburg Public Library, has garnered significant support from various community partners, including the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority, Rollstone Bank & Trust, the Wallace Foundation and Fitchburg businessman John Zarrella.
“We believe that serving our communities means more than just providing banking products and services,” said Cheryl Gaudreau, regional business advisor, senior vice president, Enterprise Bank. “We hope this donation will make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals and families who access the Fitchburg Public Library as we work to make sure every community Enterprise Bank serves is a better place to live and work for all.”
Construction for the renovation and expansion project at the library building, located at 610 Main Street, is currently underway and expected to be completed in 2026. Updates on the project’s progress are available weekly on Facebook and Instagram. During construction, access to the library’s services, programs and collections are available
at its temporary location at 166 Boulder Drive.
“Enterprise Bank has been a strong supporter of the Fitchburg Public Library for many years, and we are grateful for their continued support of this important project in our Library’s history,” said Deb Hinkle, executive director, Fitchburg Public Library. “The generosity of this donation will help ensure our community has access to an integral cultural resource for many generations to come.
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.”
Discover local business stories through our Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast series. Listen as Chamber members share their journeys, insights, and contributions to our thriving regional business community.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore current job openings from employers across North Central Massachusetts on our Jobs Board. Whether you’re starting a new career or making a change, you’ll find a variety of local positions available to help you take the next step.
CapEx Facility Services & Construction · Leominster, MA
TaraVista Behavioral Health Center · Harvard, MA
DRS Power Technology, Inc. · Fitchburg, MA
AIS · Leominster, MA