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Keeping up with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce!Monday, March 9, 2026
President'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.
Megan Mullins
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
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
