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Keeping up with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce!Monday, January 26, 2026
2026 Board of Directors Announced
The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome our new Executive Committee and Board Members for 2026. The Board of Directors plays an integral role in advancing the Chamber’s mission by providing guidance, governance, and oversight that support a strong and vibrant business community. Through their leadership and industry insight, board members help shape priorities, advocacy efforts, and ensure the Chamber remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members.
Mara McJilton
Monday, January 26, 2026President's Report January 26, 2026
After more than 30 years working in advocacy in North Carolina, one lesson has remained constant: a strong business climate depends on steady leadership, and steady leadership is rooted in informed and engaged voters. On February 10, the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Cape Fear REALTORS®, the Wilmington–Cape Fear Home Builders Association, and BASE, will host a Candidate Forum featuring candidates running in the 2026 New Hanover County Board of Commissioners and Board of
Natalie English
Tuesday, January 20, 2026President's Report January 20, 2026
We are a few weeks away from the Wilmington Chamber’s 159th Annual Meeting where we will celebrate the successes of 2025 and look ahead for what’s to come in 2026. This event brings together our business and community leaders to build momentum, make connections, and talk about our shared vision for the year ahead. If you care about the future of business in our region, you want to be in this room.
Natalie English
Monday, January 12, 2026President's Report January 12, 2026
As we move into the 2026 election cycle, I want to remind our members that North Carolina’s Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. In November, we saw a number of incumbents across our region lose their elections, an important reminder that outcomes are not guaranteed and that engagement early in the election cycle matters. It is critical that the business community stays informed and supports business-friendly candidates from the very beginning.
Natalie English
Monday, January 5, 2026President's Report January 5, 2026
Happy New Year! I hope that 2026 is a fantastic year for all of our members. Through advocacy, programming, and collaboration, the Wilmington Chamber will continue to support our members, strengthen our local economy, and advance initiatives that help our business community thrive.
Natalie English
Monday, December 15, 2025President's Report for December 15, 2025
I truly love this work and the role the Chamber plays in shaping the future of our region. Every day, our team has the opportunity to bring together businesses from across our community and work alongside public partners to make sure the business voice is part of the conversation as important decisions are made. It is meaningful work, and it is a privilege to do it alongside people who care deeply about Wilmington’s long-term success. That shared passion is reflected in our Board of Directors who represent
Natalie English
Monday, December 8, 2025President's Report for December 8, 2025
The Wilmington Chamber’s 159th Annual Meeting is roughly two months away, and we are pleased to share a major announcement with our members, investors, and regional partners. This year, the Chamber will honor James “Chip” Mahan III, Chairman and CEO of Live Oak Bancshares with our Lifetime Achievement in Business Award.
Natalie English
Tuesday, December 2, 2025Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce hires Chief Revenue Officer and new Executive Assistant & Office Manager
The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce two new staff members: Chris Hardy, Chief Revenue Officer, and Karen Cosentino, Executive Assistant & Office Manager.
Mara McJilton
Monday, December 1, 2025President's Report for December 1, 2025
Strong ports and modern schools are essential to Wilmington’s future. Strategic investments today protect our competitiveness and long-term economic health.
Natalie English
Monday, November 24, 2025Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce endorses $320M bond request from New Hanover County Schools
The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted today to formally endorse the New Hanover County Schools (NHCS) Board of Education request for a $320 million school bond to be placed on the November 2026 ballot. “Modern, safe, and well-equipped schools are fundamental to economic growth, workforce development, and quality of life,” said Jim Hundley, Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Board Chair. “Education and healthcare are two of the most important economic drivers in our
Mara McJilton
