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The Chamber Buzz
Keeping up with the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce!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
(0) CommentsMonday, 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
(0) CommentsMonday, 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
(0) CommentsMonday, 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
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