Economic Development

Chambers of Commerce are critical partners in a region’s economic development landscape. Chambers are all about businesses, and business attraction, and retention are cornerstones of a healthy economic development program. 
 
Economic development changes continuously. It includes planning, designing, and implement economic development strategies, as well as having conversations between public and private sectors and the community.
 
GNACC is heavily involved in other key aspects of our region’s economic development efforts.
  • ​Supporting Local Businesses: GNACC provides resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to support the growth and sustainability of local businesses.
  • Attracting New Businesses: We work to attract new businesses to the Greater Norwich area by promoting the region’s benefits, providing market insights, and offering a supportive business environment.
  • Workforce Development: Partnering with educational institutions to ensure a skilled and ready workforce for local businesses.
  • Infrastructure Improvement: Advocating for and supporting infrastructure projects that enhance the region’s business environment and overall quality of life.
  • Government Liaison: Act as a bridge between businesses and local government, facilitating communication and collaboration on key issues
  • Public Policy Advocacy: Representing the interests of the business community in policy discussions and advocating for legislation that supports economic growth.
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Chamber Member Support Through Economic Development
 
​Supporting chamber members through economic development efforts ensures that businesses feel appreciated by the community and are more likely to stay in town, contributing to the local economy.
 
Here are some ways in which GNACC supports its members:
  • Mentorship Programs: Connect businesses with experienced mentors who can offer guidance, support, and advice.
  • Startup Support: Provide resources and assistance to new businesses, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.
  • Advisory Panels: Create panels of financial experts who can provide personalized advice and support to members seeking funding
  • Marketing and Visibility: Help businesses increase their visibility through chamber publications, social media, and events.
  • Member Spotlights: Feature member businesses in newsletters, on the chamber website, and through other communication channels.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Encourage businesses to participate in community service and volunteer opportunities, fostering a sense of community and goodwill.
  • Community Projects: Involve businesses in local projects and initiatives that improve the community and enhance the business environment.
  • Community Engagement: Regularly engage with businesses to understand their needs, celebrate their successes, and recognize their contributions to the community.
  • Awards and Recognition Programs: Host events and programs that acknowledge outstanding businesses, their achievements, and their impact on the local economy.
  • Networking Events: Organize events where business owners and professionals can connect, share ideas, and collaborate on projects.
  • Business Mixers and Forums: Provide platforms for businesses to discuss common challenges, explore opportunities, and build partnerships.
 
Engage with the Connecticut Office of Tourism (COT) and the Eastern Regional Tourism District (ERTD)
 
Under Connecticut legislation, the state has established three state-funded tourism districts: Western, Central, and Eastern. The Eastern Regional Tourism District serves and promotes the 41 towns in Eastern CT. ERTD offers specific promotional opportunities to businesses in Eastern CT.

If you are a local business and want to promote your services and events, create an account on CTvisit.com
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  • List your business
  • Add your events to allow the Office of Tourism to promote them on various media platforms.
  • By adding your business, you are more likely to be featured in articles and content.
  • To contact ERTD, reach out to Andrea Manning at [email protected].​

​Read a Complete Guide to Utilizing CT Visit
We Have Momentum.
This is Connecticut’s moment. Since 2020, our economy has grown, jobs have grown, our population has grown, and tourism
visitation is at an all-time high.

Now is the time to capitalize, building on this momentum by working together across industries and municipalities to show the world why Connecticut is one of the best places in the world to LIVE / WORK / PLAY.

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