Chamber News

Key Takeaways from Concord’s Workforce Resources Seminar

On Friday, March 27, 2026, employers and community leaders gathered at NHTI – Concord’s Community College for a timely and informative seminar focused on workforce resources across New Hampshire. The event brought together a strong network of partners and professionals, all with a shared goal: to better equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate today’s workforce challenges. Read on to explore more about this impactful event!

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Housing, Infrastructure, and Investment Lead Concord’s 2026 Priorities

Mayor Byron Champlin and City Manager Tom Aspell returned to present at the Chamber’s annual State of the City forum, sponsored by Bar Harbor Wealth Management and hosted by the DoubleTree by Hilton. Here, Champlin and Aspell offered a clear message: Concord is balancing growth and long-term planning, with housing, infrastructure, and economic development at the center of the conversation. In their joint presentation, they highlighted both the momentum from the successes of the past year and the major investments still ahead. […]

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Inclusion in Action: Supporting a Diverse Next Generation

Founded in 2021, Concord-based Project S.T.O.R.Y. serves more than 125 students aged 6–21 from various African and Southeast Asian countries. The organization provides holistic support through youth programming, education, leadership development, and social justice advocacy, all aimed at empowering young people to become leaders and agents of change. Its programs address both immediate needs and long-term growth by connecting underserved youth with a safe and supportive environment along with access to education, transportation, leadership training, and advocacy opportunities. Most importantly, Project S.T.O.R.Y. fosters a sense of belonging, helping participants navigate and overcome challenges such as isolation, trauma, and discrimination. We interviewed Founder & Director Charm Emiko to discuss the organization’s mission and programs.

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Applications are open for Leadership Greater Concord’s Class of 2027

Leadership Greater Concord—the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s annual leadership program for area professionals—is accepting applications for the class of 2027. For over three decades, this initiative has introduced over 650 community members to the inner workings of the capital region. Each year, participants embark on a nine-month immersion into the inner workings of the greater Concord community. The LGC program includes hands-on and interactive session days that cover many aspects of our region’s public resources and governance, and each class connects with prominent business and civic leaders who are making decisions about Greater Concord’s future. Read on to learn more about the program and how to apply!

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Inclusion in Action: Expanding Inclusive Housing

When addressing housing in New Hampshire, it is important to consider and support intentional choices that support independent living opportunities. Next Step Living is a first-of-its-kind community designed to support independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). An on-site residential life skills coordinator is available to offer guidance when needed and to plan ongoing enrichment activities that support growth, connection, and community engagement. We interviewed founder and President Mike Dennehy to learn more about the organization’s work and how we can all take steps to support inclusive housing.

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Capital Area Student Leadership announces 2026 class

The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s Capital Area Student Leadership (CASL)—an immersive program that connects high school sophomores to their community and fosters their leadership skills—is pleased to announce its 2026 class. This initiative, generously underwritten by Northeast Delta Dental, is the only regional student leadership program in the state and features activities in public speaking, networking, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. CASL students interact with professionals from diverse industries including civic leaders, members of the judiciary, and young entrepreneurs. This year, the program welcomes 36 students across eight schools […]

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Economic Outlook 2026: Positive growth challenged by stalled hiring and affordability woes

Last month, the Chamber hosted its annual Economic Outlook forum at the DoubleTree by Hilton, generously sponsored by Eversource Energy. Presenters Brian Gottlob and Phil Sletten delivered a cautiously optimistic forecast for the national and state economies for the upcoming year. While trends and economic indicators have shown encouraging momentum in the past year, the labor market is still stalling and household budgets remain under significant strain […]

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Inclusion in Action: Investing in Young Talent

As one of the most robust young professional networks in the state, the Concord Young Professionals Network, an initiative of the Chamber, promotes the growth of young individuals in New Hampshire’s Capital Region. We interviewed CYPN Steering Committee Chair Vice Alexandra Brewer, an attorney at Cleveland, Waters and Bass, P.A. and Vice Chair Sarah Glaude, co-owner of Social Club Creamery to shed perspective how investing in our young workforce benefits businesses across greater Concord.

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A Letter from our President

As we step into a new year, I find myself reflecting on the strength and shared purpose that defined our 2025 in greater Concord. Each January offers a natural moment to pause, take stock of where we’ve been, and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that await. It’s a time for fresh ideas, renewed energy, and thoughtful collaboration. As your Chamber President, I’m ready to enter this year with optimism and gratitude, committed to serving our members and the broader Capital Region […]

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