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.

June 2026

Not Yet A Member? Join the Chamber

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

Unase Ahora Opciones de membresía

Noticias de la Cámara

North Central Massachusetts announces three-year strategic plan

/en /por
NCMCC Strategic Plan 2022-2025

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Strategic Plan Overview 2022-2025

Plan aligns with One North Central Regional Economic Development Plan focused on regional prosperity, market opportunities

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce today announced a new strategic plan designed to build upon the considerable momentum generated through the keen vision and steady execution of their prior plan announced in 2018.

“Our new strategic plan capitalizes upon the successes experienced over the past four years while also acknowledging a significant number of emerging opportunities and challenges currently facing our region,” said Roy Nascimento, President and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “At the same time, it incorporates many of the invaluable recommendations of Uno del norte central, our comprehensive regional economic development plan commissioned by the Chamber in concert with our local partners and unveiled in 2021.”

The 2023-2025 plan includes five goals focusing on specific areas with accountable metrics and targets:

Goal 1: Strengthen the regional economy and improve the overall business climate;

Goal 2: Promote the region as an ideal place to live, work, visit and invest;

Goal 3: Partner with educational, business and non-profit communities to address the region’s growing workforce development needs;

Goal 4: Deepen the region’s understanding of complex issues, identify collaborative solutions and advocate to key decision makers and stakeholders;

Goal 5: Position the Chamber for long-term sustainability and success.

The strategic plan, which was approved by the Chamber Board and its affiliate Boards from North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation and Visit North Central Massachusetts, was prepared via a comprehensive process that included input from members, the Boards, staff and other stakeholders. The new strategic plan complements the One North Central plan while aligning with the Chamber’s advocacy agenda.

“We made great strides in achieving key goals set forth in our previous plan,” said Nascimento. “From launching a localized online jobs resource and a Latinx business initiative to better engage and support Latinx small businesses to securing nearly four million dollars in state, federal and private funding to supporting lending efforts and regional economic development, we are pleased with our work and look forward to continuing the momentum over the next three years.”

Programs and projects will be undertaken with care and consideration of actual resources of the Chamber and its members. The plan is also a fluid document of which the Chamber will update as needed to reflect the changing world.

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Strategic Plan Overview 2022-2025

Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | North Central Regional Economic Development Plan | North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation | Visit North Central Massachusetts

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $78 Million for New Grant Programs to Support Massachusetts Small Businesses

/en /por

The Healey-Driscoll Administration and Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) announced two new grant programs totaling $78 million in funding to support Massachusetts small businesses.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and our economy,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. “Through these new grant programs, small businesses will have access to much-needed capital and resources to help them grow and thrive. We’re grateful to our partners in the Legislature for allocating these critical funds.”

The Inclusive Recovery Grant Program will provide up to $75 million in funding through grants of up to $75,000 for businesses owned by people of color, women, veterans, immigrants, individuals with disabilities, or those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community; businesses that focus on reaching markets predominantly made up of socially and economically disadvantaged and historically underrepresented groups; and other underserved markets.

The Independent Movie Theater Grant Program will provide a total of $3 million in funding to support movie theaters in Massachusetts. Eligible applicants can receive $15,000 for each of the first two screens they add at a particular location and $10,000 for each additional screen at a particular location.

These funds will be administered by MGCC and were appropriated through the Commonwealth’s FY2023 Economic Development Bill.

“Small businesses employ half the workforce in our state and account for the majority of all our businesses,” said Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “We’re pleased this targeted funding will support small business owners that have traditionally struggled to access needed capital and those serving historically underrepresented populations.”

“Our small business owners and entrepreneurs, many of whom are women, people of color, veterans, and immigrants, need access to capital in order to get their ventures off the ground and expand their footprint in Massachusetts,” said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. “We are grateful to MGCC for playing an important role in empowering small business owners and advancing equitable business growth across the state.”

“These programs provide an accessible and streamlined process for underserved businesses to access the capital that will be instrumental to their growth,” said Larry Andrews, President and CEO of MGCC. “Our extensive network of community partners is actively reaching out to their local businesses to provide the necessary technical assistance to assist through the application process.”

Applications are now being accepted for both programs and are available here (https://www.empoweringsmallbusiness.org/). The deadline to apply is Friday, April 28, 2023. Businesses interested in applying must fill out and submit the online application along with required documentation.

Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Massachusetts Economy | Government Affairs | Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) | Healey-Driscoll Administration | Small Businesses New Grant Programs

Leading tourism organizations in Central Massachusetts awarded $1 million grant to enhance tourism opportunities

/en /por

Travel and Tourism Season Extension grant to support marketing projects that promote travel and tourism during “shoulder season”

Three leading tourism organizations in Central Massachusetts today announced they will receive a combined $1 million Travel and Tourism Season Extension (TTSE) Grant from the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT). Discover Central Massachusetts, in partnership with MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau and Visit North Central Massachusetts, announced the grant during a special event at Mechanics Hall in Worcester.

The grant, which is funded through the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Agency, will be provided over two years to support the partnership of the three organizations.

“These Travel and Tourism Season Extension grants support regional marketing projects that promote travel and tourism attractions between the months of November through April, known as the ‘shoulder season,’” said Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism Executive Director Keiko Matsudo Orrall. “We have an amazing state to showcase, and these funds will enhance tourism recovery during this important part of the year.”

“This is a great opportunity for all of our organizations to come together and share our collective attractions with leisure travelers, sports families, groups and convention attendees, among many others,” said Monique Messier, President, Discover Central Massachusetts. “By making this a collaborative effort with the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau and Visit North Central Massachusetts, we can unify our position as an attractive and competitive destination not just in Massachusetts but throughout New England and on the East Coast.”

Target cities include Boston, Mass., Providence, R.I., Manchester, N.H., New York City and surrounding suburbs, and Canada, with outcomes of increased tourism revenue, website traffic, newsletter subscriptions, and a larger social media following expected.

“The project is consistent with economic development goals in our region as we continue to recover from losses in visitor spending, tourism payroll and tax dollars which occurred during the pandemic,” said Roy Nascimento, President and CEO, Visit North Central Massachusetts. “This is an exciting opportunity to enhance our existing efforts and grow our tourism industry for the benefit of our businesses and communities.”

The campaign will connect experiences and opportunities across more than 80 cities and towns represented by the three destination marketing organizations.

“This collaboration expands the impact of our national and international campaigns far beyond what any of us could do working alone” said Erin Lynch, Executive Director, MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau. “These partnerships weave together a story showcasing the tremendous assets and opportunities for exploration within our regions, driving a significant boost for our local economies.”

About Discover Central MA
Discover Central MA’s mission is to market Central Massachusetts as a competitive destination for travel and tourism, attracting visitors, national conventions, meetings and events. As a membership-based, destination marketing organization, DCM advocates for the growth and health of the local tourism industry. Membership is available to hospitality and tourism businesses in Worcester and 34 surrounding communities in the Central Mass. region. To stay up to date, follow Discover Central MA on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Linkedin, YouTube, and subscribe to the weekly newsletter.

About the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau
As the only regional organization with the mission of stimulating the MetroWest economy by marketing the region’s assets, MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau has served hundreds of businesses, nonprofit agencies, and municipalities since its founding. This independent nonprofit organization markets the region’s cultural and recreational venues, retailers, restaurants, accommodations, and educational and other services to visitors and residents alike. These marketing efforts also serve to brand the region, to build collaborations across sectors and towns, to support jobs-producing enterprises, and to celebrate the diverse and vibrant MetroWest community. Learn more about the MWVB by visiting www.metrowestvisitors.org or by following on social media @visitmetrowest.

About Visit North Central Massachusetts
Visit North Central Massachusetts (VNCM) is the official designated Regional Tourism Council serving the 27 cities and towns of North Central Massachusetts. One of the sixteen Massachusetts Regional Tourism Councils, the organization’s primary mission is to educate the traveling public, tourists and residents of North Central Massachusetts about the many historical, cultural and hospitality related sites within this scenic New England Region. Through this mission, VNCM works collectively with local attractions, hospitality businesses and local communities to market the North Central region as a destination and provide information and services to the traveling public. The North Central Massachusetts region is comprised of the communities of Ashburnham, Ashby, Athol, Ayer, Barre, Bolton, Clinton, Devens, Fitchburg, Gardner, Groton, Harvard, Hubbardston, Lancaster, Leominster, Lunenburg, Pepperell, Petersham, Phillipston, Princeton, Royalston, Shirley, Sterling, Templeton, Townsend, Westminster, and Winchendon. For more information about Visit North Central Massachusetts please visit www.visitnorthcentral.com or call 978-353-7604.

Media Contact:
Lauren Howe
empHowered PR
978-400-3036

Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | Worcester County | Discover Central MA | Visit North Central Massachusetts | Visit North Central Local Tourism | Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) | Discover Central MA | MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau | U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Agency | Travel and Tourism Season Extension (TTSE) Grant 

Eventos próximos

TODOS LOS EVENTOS

El North Central Golf Tour: Viernes en la Cancha del Templewood Golf Course

31 de julio de 2026

Viernes en la Cancha en el Campo de Golf Templewood 31 de julio de 2026 Campo de Golf Templewood El evento comienza a la 1:00 p.m.
View Event

Clínica de Golf Fore Then Pore, Juego de 9 Hoyos y Fiesta de Fin de Verano

21 de agosto de 2026

Clínica de Golf, Juego de 9 Hoyos y Gran Final de Verano 21 de agosto de 2026 The Woods of Westminster Inicio del evento a la 1:00pm
View Event

Sponsors Reception: Old Mill

26 de agosto de 2026

¡Gracias a todos nuestros patrocinadores que ayudaron a patrocinar este pasado año del programa 2025-2026! ¡Nos sentimos verdaderamente honrados por su continuo apoyo y sus esfuerzos para que nuestra comunidad siga prosperando!
View Event

WLC Self-Love Mini Series: Reignite Your Wellness

September 9, 2026


View Event

Serie sobre beneficios empresariales: Mesa redonda trimestral — Flujo de caja y educación financiera para propietarios de pequeñas empresas

September 15, 2026

 
View Event

Buenos días, North Central, presentado por Unitil

17 de septiembre de 2026

17 de septiembre de 2026 7:15 a. m. - 9:00 a. m.
View Event

Legislative & Candidates Reception

September 24, 2026

The reception features an open bar and gourmet appetizers.
View Event

Connect North Central

September 25, 2026

Join us for Connect North Central Friday, September 25, 2026 8am-9am
View Event

North Central Golf Tour Championship: Fore the Future FLNC Scholarship Golf Classic at Oak Hill

October 5, 2026

North Central Golf Tour Championship: Fore the Future An FLNC Non-Traditional Scholarship Fundraiser  
View Event

Women's Leadership Connection Luncheon

October 7, 2026


View Event

Congressional Luncheon Sponsored by Fitchburg State University

October 15, 2026

Join us for our 11th Annual Congressional Luncheon
View Event

Work North Central Massachusetts Career & Hiring Event!

October 27, 2026

FREE for Job Seekers! Walk ins Welcome!!
View Event

Connect North Central

October 30, 2026

Join us for Connect North Central Friday, October 30, 2026 8am-9am
View Event

Business Benefit Series: HR Council Legal Update

November 10, 2026

Join us for this in person HR Legal Update
View Event

6 Chamber B.A.S.H.

November 12, 2026

 
View Event

Good Morning North Central: Sponsored by IC Credit Union

November 19, 2026

November 19, 2026 7:15am - 9:00am  
View Event

Connect North Central

November 20, 2026

Join us for Connect North Central Friday, November 20, 2026 8am-9am
View Event

Women's Leadership Connection Luncheon

January 20, 2027


View Event

Connect North Central

January 29, 2027

Join us for Connect North Central Friday, January 29, 2027 8am-9am
View Event

Winter Reception

February 25, 2027

 
View Event

Economic Forecast Breakfast

April 15, 2027

Please stay tuned for additional information.
View Event

Annual Scholars Breakfast

May 7, 2027

Annual Scholars Breakfast May 7, 2027 7:15am - 9:30am
View Event

43nd Annual Meeting & Business Expo

June 10, 2027

43st Annual Meeting and Business Expo
View Event

Noticias para miembros

Fidelity Bank leads $21 million leasehold mortgage residential project in Amherst

/en /por

Fidelity Bank announced it is leading a $21 million leasehold mortgage in partnership with Savers Bank and North Brookfield Savings Bank to support the renovation and revitalization of ReNew Amherst Apartments, located at 44 South Point Drive, in Amherst, Mass.

The property, which was built in 1968, offers a total of 182 apartments, consisting of one, two or three-bedrooms that range in size from 875 to 1,140 sq. ft. In addition to a tennis and sports court as well as easy access to Amherst’s shopping and nightlife, ReNew Amherst is located just minutes from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst College, and Hampshire College.

“Residents and students alike have called ReNew Amherst Apartments home over the years,” said Eric Ruder, attorney for the investors. “By working with Fidelity Bank and their partners at Savers Bank and North Brookfield Savings Bank, my client was able to take their business to the next level with this investment to revitalize one of the town’s most popular properties.”

As a leading lender of commercial loans, Fidelity Bank works with companies of all sizes to finance growth toward achieving solutions and success for business owners and investors.

“Our LifeDesign banking promise of providing care, confidence and clarity enabled us to work effectively with our partners and the investor to ensure the best possible outcome for all on this project,” said Joseph Silva, chief lending officer, Fidelity Bank. “We wish the investors much success and look forward to visiting ReNew Amherst when the renovations are complete.”

Fidelity Bank offers a variety of commercial banking and lending programs and services to help businesses meet their financial needs and goals. Learn more at www.fidelitybankonline.com/business-banking.

Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts – A Toast to Hope

/en /por

A Toast to HopeThe Seventh Annual Toast to Hope

Thursday, October 12th from 6 to 8 at Devens Common Center

Join Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts for Wine, Whiskey, Craft Beer, Spirits … and Food tastings from local restaurants and bakers! Pouring by award-winning beer, wine and spirits distributors.

All of the proceeds for this event will help us continue our mission of building homes because everyone deserves a safe place to call home.

Auction, prizes, wine pull, delicious food, beverages and fun – all for an important cause!

Tickets for $30 if you preregister and $35 at the door.

** Must be 21 to attend**

Registrarse ahora

bankHometown to Host Three Free Shred Days in Fall 2023

/en /por

bankHometown invites customers and members of the community to three free Shred Days at local offices. Events will be held on the following dates and at the following locations. No appointment is necessary.

Saturday, October 14: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.,* Leominster office, 9 Sack Blvd.

Saturday, October 28: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.,* Webster office, 4 Gore Rd.

Saturday, November 4: Noon to 2:00 p.m.,* Brooklyn, Conn., office, 13 Canterbury Rd.

*or until the truck is full

Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, cancelled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person

Sobre bankHometown

Founded in 1889, bankHometown is headquartered in Oxford, Massachusetts and has $1.3 billion in assets and 16 branches located throughout Central Massachusetts and northeast Connecticut. Through its sponsorship and charitable giving program, The Giving Tree, bankHometown and the Hometown Bank Community Foundation support non-profit organizations and causes throughout Worcester and Windham Counties. In 2022, The Giving Tree donated approximately $320,000 and over the last decade has donated more than $2.5 million. For more information, visit bankhometown.com.

bankHometown is a member of the Hometown Financial Group, a $4.5 billion mutual multi-bank holding company headquartered in Easthampton, Massachusetts, and the parent company of bankESB, bankHometown, and Abington Bank as well as Hometown Mortgage. For more information, visit bankHFG.com.

                                                                                  

Miembro Destacado

Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody

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.”

Read Member Spotlight

Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast

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.

Listen to the Podcast

Out & About

From Chamber events and ribbon cuttings to community celebrations and regional highlights, stay connected with what’s happening across North Central Massachusetts. Follow us on social media for the latest photos, updates, and stories.

Celebrating Great Wolf Lodge’s $30 Million Investment in North Central Massachusetts

Read More on Facebook

Discover Your Leadership Potential with CLI

Read More on LinkedIn

Cinco de Mayo Business After Hours Recap

View on Instagram

Job Board Postings

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.

View All Jobs

Got a job you want featured? Click here to submit a job posting to our job board or email . This is a member benefit. Post jobs at no extra cost. No algorithms or budgets to manage!

Desplazarse hacia arriba