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The Chamber Buzz
Keeping up with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce!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
Monday, November 3, 2025Affordable Health Coverage Now Available for Small Businesses Through Wilmington Chamber Membership
Small businesses in southeastern North Carolina now have access to affordable health insurance through Carolina HealthWorks, a new program from the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, NC Chamber, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. Recently approved by the NC Department of Insurance, this MEWA allows businesses with 2–50 employees to access large-employer health plan rates. Administered by Blue Cross NC and supported by Consoliplex, the initiative helps employers offer quality coverage while reducing
Megan Mullins
Wednesday, October 8, 2025Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Recognizes Minority Business Owners with Business Excellence Awards during Cape Fear MED Week
Each year during Cape Fear Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week, the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce recognizes three outstanding businesses: African American, Latin American, and Women Business Owners, for their remarkable contributions to our community.
Mara McJilton
Thursday, June 12, 2025Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 40 Under 40 Honorees
The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce's 40 Under 40 Awards recognize outstanding young professionals under the age of 40 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and community service within Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender counties. Now in its seventh year, the program highlights individuals who are making significant contributions to their organizations and the broader community.
Mara McJilton
Monday, May 19, 2025Wilmington Chamber Advocates for Clean Energy and Advanced Manufacturing on Capitol Hill
The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce was proud to participate in the inaugural D.C. fly-in event hosted by Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy last week. Through our partnership with Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy—representing over 1,300 chambers nationwide—we engaged with nearly a dozen members of Congress to highlight key policy priorities.
Mara McJilton
Monday, November 18, 2024NC Health Talent Alliance Data Release
The NC Health Talent Alliance released new analysis of health workforce supply and demand data for key health care jobs in North Carolina. The findings measure shortages and identify strategies to better meet statewide and regional needs for RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and CMAs. The NC Health Talent Alliance was launched in 2023 by the NC Center on the Workforce for Health and NC Chamber Foundation to drive a regionally-relevant partnership with NC AHEC regions. The regional data reports are being used by
Mara McJilton