Small businesses recognized at Second Annual North Central Massachusetts Entrepreneur Awards Reception and Resource Showcase
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its economic development arm, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), recognized several small businesses and individuals at the Second Annual Entrepreneur Awards Reception and Resource Showcase, held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Leominster on March 20, 2025.
The awards celebrated entrepreneurship in the region and showcased successful NCMDC clients who are helping to advance the region’s economy and communities.
“Our entrepreneurs represent the true meaning of determination, innovation and success,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation. “With numerous nominations for this year’s awards, all of our entrepreneurs are worthy of recognition as their contributions to the community and growth of the region’s economy are invaluable and remarkable, especially when combined with their grit, determination and dedication as successful business owners.”
Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Albert Deshler, Owner of AD Quality EMS Training; and Dr. Becky Copper-Glenz, Dean, Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University.
The Entrepreneurship Success Award recognized Albert Deshler, owner of AD Quality EMS Training, Inc., located in Lancaster. Opening a business during a global pandemic is no small feat, but with perseverance and dedication, Deshler overcame the challenge and has since expanded from a single location to six locations, while also creating 36 jobs. Through his expertise and commitment to high-quality EMS education, he is strengthening communities, training lifesavers, and making a lasting impact in emergency medical services.
Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Nancy and Shawn Bray, Owners of Diamond Hearts Art Studio; and Dr. Becky Copper-Glenz, Dean, Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University.
The Community Impact Award recognized Nancy Bray, owner of Diamond Hearts Studios, located in Gardner. Bray, with her husband, Sean, recently opened the studio, offering a creative space dedicated to art, community and expression for all ages and skill levels. Since opening just five months ago, Bray has collaborated with community outreach programs, peer recovery groups, school organizations, and nonprofits, all while helping to raise funds for important causes.
Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Christine Konich, Owner of Simply Sweet by Christine; and Dr. Becky Copper-Glenz, Dean, Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University.
The Dream Big Award went to Christine Konich, owner of Simply Sweet by Christine, in Leominster. A self-taught baker and cake artist with nearly 20 years of experience, Konich immigrated from Indonesia, became a U.S. citizen in 2016, and successfully navigated the challenges of being in immigrant, minority and woman entrepreneur toward running a thriving business.
In addition to the recognition, these three small businesses also took home cash awards of $500 each.
During the program, the Chamber also presented its Community Partner of the Year and Banker of the Year awards.
Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Tom Herald, Regional Director at the Small Business Development Center at Clark University; and Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Business Department at Fitchburg State University.
The Small Business Development Center at Clark University was recognized as the Community Partner of the Year for its support and active partnership with the NCMDC in working with startup businesses to provide guidance in the development of business plans and creating projections for future success. Through their work, entrepreneurs can obtain financing and start the business on a positive note.
Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Austin Brooks, Small Business Relationship Manager at TD Bank; and Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Business Department at Fitchburg State University.
The Banker of the Year was presented to Austin Brooks of TD Bank. Brooks serves as Small Business Relationship Manager at TD Bank and plays a key role in connecting entrepreneurs with funding, which earned him recognition as the top referral source for NCMDC lending among bankers this past year. In addition to this professional work, Brooks established the Russell Brooks Foundation as part of his community project for the Chamber’s Community Leadership Institute in 2022. The Foundation provides crucial support to families navigating the challenges of cancer treatment to ensure children and loved one can still experience the magic of the holidays.
Special thanks to Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University, Corporate Sponsor Fidelity Bank, and Supporting Sponsors bankHometown, Rollstone Bank & Trust, Main Street Bank, Workers’ Credit Union, and TD Bank. The bag sponsor was Fitchburg Rotary East, and XLO 104.5 was Media Sponsor.
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