Who are GNCC Investors?
The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce is you, your business, our community and all the ways that we come together to support one another, our commercial vibrancy, and the community in which we live, work, and play.
Below are some examples of how the GNCC community supports its investors.
Advocacy & Development
The GNCC and its investors advocate for business-friendly initiatives and champion economic development for an improved business climate in Northampton.
Build & Promote
Education & Training
Savings & Discounts
Advocacy & Economic Development
Several years ago, the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce participated in the exhaustive 18-month review of a one-mile stretch of King Street for rezoning.
From creating green spaces to accommodating pedestrians, from establishing bicycle access points to determining driveway access and frontage requirements, the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce was on the ground — measuring tape in hand — actively collaborating with partners on these important policy decisions.
When the City of Northampton proposed a new storm water utility, the GNCC agreed with the need for the investment and then took the lead to represent commercial property interests on the design of the utility.
The benefits of a storm water utility were clear. However, the original fee structure that was proposed placed 80 percent of the fee burden on commercial properties and 20 percent on residential. The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce not only hosted forums for property owners, but also seated 2 of our volunteers on the City Committee that ultimately defined the specifics of the fee structure. Through a collaborative, thoughtful process the City adopted a structure that fairly distributed the cost between residential and commercial properties.
The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce led an initiative to transform how Hampshire County’s community leaders work together to advance our common interests. The result was a Hampshire County Agenda for Growth and Opportunity, a blueprint for growing existing and new businesses, sustaining the environment, building on the county’s cultural vibrancy, leveraging the diversity of talent, and sharing the benefits of prosperity to all those who live and work in Hampshire County.
We led a process connecting more than 250 civic leaders, business owners, elected officials, nonprofit executives, and residents alike who shared an interest to leverage all of Hampshire County’s strengths with a stronger voice within the region – helping the county grow and enhancing opportunity for current and for future residents.
Rich Horton, a Northampton native and Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce investor since 2008, talks about his experience on the King Street rezoning committee.
Elain Formica, co-founder of RideNoho and Chamber investor since 2011, shares her experience of working with the Hampshire Tourism Council to promote our community.
Build & Promote Your Business
From visitor center referrals to digital exposure through our websites and e-newsletter, from social media to sponsorship, the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce provides a variety of ways to expose your business to the public and increase engagement.
The DNA produces and promotes signature downtown events with the retail and restaurant community. From the Summer Block Party to the Holiday Stroll, these events create a sense of community and welcomes visitors.
Explore all things Northampton – arts and entertainment, shopping, restaurants, hotels, nightlife and more.
With over 70 participating businesses the Northampton Gift Card is a critical Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce program that generates over $380,000 for our local, downtown economy. Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce investors are welcome to participate.
The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce hosts dozens of events each year. For networking, celebrating, and learning. Each event is unique and provides members with the opportunity to highlight their business or organization through sponsorship.
Our monthly Arrive@5 networking events and our annual special events are some of the ways members can partner with the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce to promote their business or organization.
Education Training
Want to make better use of Google Apps or finally learn how to pivot table in Excel. Maybe you want to finally make sure you are doing right by your WordPress site. Continue learning with the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce.
Fine tune a business idea or test your new venture strategy by accessing knowledgeable management consulting from business specialists from the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, SCORE, and Valley CDC.
Monthly Arrive@5 to the Hampshire Hampshire County’s Business Bash, regular Member Orientations to the Taste of Commerce, the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce creates dozens of opportunities for members to connect and learn from one another.
The Community Connector Newsletter offers regular updates and news so our members are up to date on events, ideas, policy concerns and all matters of interest to the business community.
Don’t receive the newsletter? Sign up here.
Savings & Discounts
Fine tune a business idea or test your new venture strategy by accessing knowledgeable management consulting from business specialists from the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, SCORE, and Valley CDC.
BusinessWest is the region’s most respected business publication. Since its founding, the magazine has featured timely, informative, entertaining articles that essentially turn a mirror to the region’s business community. Enjoy a free subscription at a $45 value.
For businesses with 50 or fewer employees, the The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce and our community welcomes you. Group Health Coop could save you money on Health and Dental Insurance costs. To learn more, contact Jess Thomson .
Looking to lower your energy costs? One-on-one free energy consultation is available through the Hampshire Council of Governments and Hampshire Energy. Contact Jess Thompson to learn more.
Chamber members can get a special member rate for your credit card processing. To inquire, please contact Jess Thompson.
Stay in touch with customers, clients, and donors using Constant Contact, a email marketing tool. Chamber members receive a 25% discount off your account. Ask Jess Thompson about this benefit.