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2025 Economic Outlook forum Recap
2025 Economic Outlook Luncheon Recap Article The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its 2025 Economic Outlook Luncheon, an annual event that provides local businesses and community leaders with expert insights on the economic landscape for the year ahead. This year’s luncheon, presented by Eversource Energy, featured two esteemed speakers: Brian Gottlob, Director of the Economic and Labor Market Information Bureau at NH Employment Security, and Phil Sletten, Research Director at the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute. New Hampshire’s Economic Landscape is Tied to
Advocacy Update: January 2025
Local Government Affairs City councilors Amanda Grady Sexton, Jennifer Kretovic and Michele Horne were guests at our January meeting, and had the opportunity to hear directly from local business leaders who discussed some of the committee’s top priorities—economic development, tax base expansion and the development process. It was a valuable discussion, with community members sharing concrete examples of challenges that their businesses face in the city. Learn more about this committee’s work, including their proposed changes to zoning ordinance. State Government Affairs It’s a new
Boosting our local economy through tourism marketing
Each season, the New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development (DTTD) announces results from its advertising campaigns. Their return on investment (ROI) results for summer 2023 showed that visitors spent $228 for every $1 that the state invested in marketing. However, proposed state budget cuts could significantly alter the equation in New Hampshire’s tourism economy. DTTD may see a 30% budget cut, which means it could fall on the shoulders of private organizations to keep the state’s $7 billion tourism economy strong. (Learn more
Inclusion in Action: Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire
In recognition of Black History Month, we interviewed JerriAnne Boggis, Executive Director of Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. You can learn more about this organization and access their resources at blackheritagetrailnh.org. Tell us a little bit about your organization’s mission. The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire (BHTNH) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to recovering and celebrating New Hampshire’s rich but often overlooked Black history. Founded seven years ago, BHTNH evolved from the Portsmouth Black Heritage Trail (PBHT), which has illuminated the
Take advantage of your member benefits in 2025
The new year is the perfect time to reflect on your business goals, and evaluate how to best invest your time and efforts in the year ahead. In Greater Concord, over 800 businesses and organizations have chosen to rely on one specific resource to help them continuously grow their client base and stand out in the community—the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. We’d like to remind you of some of the Chamber’s most popular programs and resources, and point you towards the tools that can
Inclusion in Action: NH Songa
On November 20, 2024, NH Songa welcomed business leaders, community advocates, and professionals to the Moving Together Conversations: Immigrants in New Hampshire’s Workforce conference. Held at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord, the event addressed the significant contributions of immigrant workers and explored strategies to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces across New Hampshire. The conference opened with remarks from Jean Hakuzimana, Founder of NH Songa, who shared his personal journey of migrating to Concord in 2018 and the challenges he faced integrating into a
The volunteers who power your Chamber
The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce is proud to host many committees who help us carry out our mission—to develop economic opportunities, strengthen the business climate, and enhance the quality of life in the Capital Region. These dedicated volunteers are an essential part of our organization; they advocate for local businesses, provide educational programs for area students, beautify New Hampshire’s capital city, and much more. “We give our time, and help members of the Chamber connect with others to help their businesses grow,” said Ambassador
Advocacy Update: December 2024
The Chamber’s Local Government Affairs Committee, chaired by former mayor Jim Bouley, meets monthly to keep lines of communication open between the business community and City of Concord officials and staff. Last winter, this committee heard from Mayor Champlin regarding City Council priorities. In March, the Chamber shared its own priorities with the City Council. Since then, the committee has: 1. Created a subcommittee to make recommendations on changes to the zoning ordinance. The city’s transition to form-based zoning is currently stalled; form-based zoning is
Inclusion in Action: Interview with Samuel and Dan Habib
“The Ride Ahead” was recently named Best NH Feature Documentary, and is a product of the Emmy Award-winning team that includes Concord-based director, Dan Habib. The film will premiere on Monday, December 2 at 6 p.m. at the Bank of New Hampshire Stage in downtown Concord, and then will run December 3-12 at Red River Theatres. Learn more and purchase premiere tickets at rideaheadfilm.com. Interview with Samuel and Dan Habib Tell us a little bit about your new film, “The Ride Ahead”.Dan: The Ride Ahead
Chris Brown honored as 2024 Citizen of the Year
Chris Brown, President of New Hampshire Distributors, LLC, and founder of the 1883 Black Ice Hockey Association received the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s highest honor at their 105th Annual Meeting on November 6. The dinner at the Grappone Conference Center welcomed over 250 community, nonprofit and business leaders from the Capital Region. This esteemed audience gave a standing ovation to Brown for his impact on the Greater Concord community. As part of the award ceremony, Chamber Board Chair, Larry Haynes of Grappone Automotive Group,
Advocacy Update: The Chamber is your business advocate
The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce plays an important role for businesses in the Capital Region by engaging in advocacy at both the local and state levels. There are two standing committees within the Chamber that address this: State Government Affairs Committee This committee tracks legislation at the state level, reviewing the myriad of bills (well over 1,000 each year!) that could have an impact on business in New Hampshire. The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce routinely partners with other chambers of commerce in New
Inclusion in Action: Interview with Jean Hakuzimana, Founder of NH Songa
Tell us a little bit about your organization’s mission. NH Songa seeks to build our workforce and establish connections and new relationships between local businesses, employers, and the immigrant community in NH. What does your organization offer to professionals in the Concord area? Education through conversations about immigrants in the workforce, professional advice on how to hire and retain immigrants, and consulting with companies/organizations to be culturally competent. Can you share a little bit about yourself, and your connection to this work? I migrated to
High school sophomores may apply to CASL
Capital Area Student Leadership (CASL) is an immersive program that encourages students to learn more about their community, and their own unique skills and strengths as leaders. Presented by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, and generously underwritten by Northeast Delta Dental, CASL has been in existence for more than 25 years, graduated over 700 leaders, and is the only regional student leadership program in the state. The program includes three day-long sessions in March 2025 that feature activities in public speaking, mindfulness, networking, teamwork
Advocacy Update: Chamber’s Local Government Affairs Committee suggests city zoning changes
Under the leadership of former mayor Jim Bouley, the Chamber’s Local Government Affairs committee has been actively advocating on behalf of the business community with elected officials and City of Concord staff. Recently, a subcommittee was established to take a look at Concord’s zoning ordinance, which is in urgent need of updates. At some point in the future, the city will undergo a thorough review and revision of the city’s master plan, which will set the table for a comprehensive review of the zoning ordinance.
Inclusion in Action: Interview with Andy Bullock, Executive Director of Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum
Tell us a little bit about your organization’s mission. Through partnership with Native peoples, exhibits, and workshops, Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum serves as a living center for artistic expression, traditional values, and contributions from past and contemporary Native life. The Museum embraces cultural diversity and encourages environmental action based upon respect for nature and a deeper understanding of Native cultures. What does your organization offer to professionals in the Concord area? The museum cares for a wonderful collection of Native belongings from across the continent, which
2026 Funds for Education grant applications are open
Each year, the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce partners with a dedicated committee of volunteers to select community-based educational programming that would benefit from additional financing through its Funds for Education program. This initiative has awarded over $170,000 to locally-based education programs that support practical skill-building and connect students to business leaders in the community, where they can learn about different industries and career opportunities […]
Inclusion in Action: Confidence through Culture and Clothing
Each year, the Concord Multicultural Festival brings people together to celebrate the cultures, traditions, stories, food, music, art and experiences that make our community unique. At the heart of that celebration are individuals who use their own experiences and creativity to help others feel seen, welcomed and valued. We spoke with Emelyne Adios, coordinator of this year’s Festival’s global fashion show, to learn more about the inspiration for this year’s runway and how clothing lends itself to inclusion.
Five teams tie for the top spot in 38th annual Concord Chamber Funds for Education Golf Tournament
36 teams competed in the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s 37th Annual Funds for Education Golf Tournament on August 5, 2026 at Beaver Meadow Golf Course. Unexpectedly, five teams tied for first place based on strokes, finishing 13 under par with scores of 59. The winners were selected by a card off, which measured their performances on the most difficult holes. Read on for a full list of winners and an event recap.
Leadership Greater Concord announces Class of 2027
The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious Leadership Greater Concord (LGC) program has selected 28 participants representing diverse industries for this year’s class. LGC is a highly competitive 10-month deep dive into the capital region’s public resources and governance. Please help us congratulate the local professionals that were selected for this year’s class: […]
Inclusion in Action: Strengthening Communities Through Volunteerism
Guided by its mission to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of communities, Granite United Way connects individuals and families with the resources and support they need to thrive while bringing together nonprofits, businesses, volunteers, schools, and community leaders to build stronger, more connected communities. We interviewed Christina Huntress, Community Engagement Director, to discuss the actions that GUW and its network of volunteers are taking to foster a more resilient, inclusive community.
Greater Concord Chamber announces 2026 Pinnacle Awards recipients
Every year, the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce hosts its signature Pinnacle Awards Ceremony to uplift and celebrate exceptional businesses and individuals in the Greater Concord area. Read on to learn more about this year’s recipients!
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. […]
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!
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.
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!
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.
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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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