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Keeping up with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce!Monday, March 30, 2026
President's Report from March 30, 2026
This week, you will begin to see an update to our logo as we reintroduce the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce name more formally to our community. Legally, we have always been the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. Somewhere along the way, we dropped the word “Greater.” I am not sure exactly when that happened, but I do know this. Over the past several years, I believe we have grown back into it. This is not a cosmetic change. It reflects the scope of our work and the direction of our region.
Natalie English
Monday, March 23, 2026President's Report from March 23, 2026
Last week, the Greater Wilmington Chamber partnered with New Hanover County Schools for a “Principal for a Day” experience, offering our business leaders a meaningful, firsthand look inside our public schools. Every school in the district participated, pairing a principal with a member of our business community. What stood out most was the level of leadership happening in real time. Principals are not behind desks. They are in classrooms, in hallways, supporting teachers, engaging with students, and
Natalie English
Tuesday, March 17, 2026President's Report from March 17, 2026
Transportation remains a top advocacy priority for the Greater Wilmington Chamber as we work to ensure our region’s needs are represented in critical infrastructure decisions. We are engaged in ILM’s noise study to support continued airport growth, participated in NCDOT’s freight planning process to advocate for our logistics economy, and are monitoring Wrightsville Beach bridge replacement efforts. We will continue championing investments that strengthen mobility, supply chains and economic growth, and
Natalie English
Monday, March 9, 2026President's Report from March 9, 2026
Wilmington’s newly seated City Council has begun its term by addressing one of the community’s most pressing challenges: housing supply and affordability. The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by early policy actions, including zoning changes that allow duplex housing on smaller lots and the creation of a Housing Affordability Advisory Committee with representation from housing professionals and residents. Council also unanimously adopted a 2026 legislative agenda supporting policies that
Natalie English
Monday, March 9, 2026President's Report from March 2, 2026
North Carolina’s Division of Coastal Management has objected to the Wilmington Harbor deepening project, which would expand the channel from 42 to 47 feet. The Chamber supports continued collaboration to address concerns, emphasizing that the Port of Wilmington is a critical statewide economic asset supporting jobs, supply chains, and long-term economic competitiveness.
Natalie English
Monday, February 23, 2026President's Report from February 23, 2026
Wilmington’s economy continues to gain momentum, with rapid tech sector growth and national recognition as one of the South’s Best Metros for Tech. As our region grows, thoughtful planning, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and housing solutions remain essential to maintaining quality of life and sustaining a strong, competitive business environment.
Natalie English
Tuesday, February 17, 2026President's Report from Feb. 16, 2026
Over the past week, our community has seen the power of long-term vision and collaboration in action. Novant Health announced a $1 billion investment in new healthcare infrastructure, expanding specialized care, modernizing facilities, and strengthening our region’s ability to meet growing demand close to home. This progress stems from the strategic decision to partner with Novant and establish The Endowment, creating both expanded healthcare capacity and a permanent philanthropic resource. At the same
Natalie English
Monday, February 9, 2026President's Report from February 9, 2026
Celebrating 159 consecutive annual meetings, the Greater Wilmington Chamber honors 172 years of regional impact, recognizes Chip Mahan, welcomes Dee Ann Turner, and transitions leadership to Nicolas Montoya.
Natalie English
Monday, February 2, 2026President's Report from Feb 2, 2026
Sincere thanks to our county emergency operations staff, Duke Energy, Brunswick Electric, NCDOT, Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, City of Wilmington staff, Wilmington International Airport, and essential workers for their tireless work before, during and after the snowstorm, helping protect our community and minimize disruption.
Natalie English
Monday, January 26, 20262026 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
