Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council

The Davis Foundation is hiring a Grants Manager. They are an impactful team who deeply care about the work they do in the community. We are also proud to have The Davis Foundation as a member of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council. Check out the position and join their team! #westernmass #economicimpact

In celebration of Optimism Month, we're positively excited to share this article from EDC Member WWLP!?MassDevelopment has awarded $2,805,000 in grants to 34 Massachusetts businesses, including multiple companies in Holyoke and Springfield, as part of the Transformative Development Initiative. This program, which supports real estate development and small business growth, is partly funded by the Barr Foundation. Business owners expressed optimism about the future, sharing how the grant has transformed their businesses and strengthened community support. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eE5XksbY

The Western Mass EDC is proud to support job growth in our community. Don’t miss the Springfield Public Schools Job Fair this Saturday, March 15 from 11am – 2pm at MGM Springfield. You will meet hiring managers and can even apply on the spot. Whether you're experienced or looking for a fresh start, Springfield Public Schools has opportunities for you, including: - Bus monitors? - Crossing guards? - Security guards? - Custodians - Teachers and paraeducators Roles include competitive pay, great benefits, room to advance, and a supportive work environment! Hope to see you there.

It's National Nutrition Month so we're taking this opportunity to share an incredible story about EDC Member, Big Y World Class Market, and the results of their annual Sack Hunger campaign. This program raises funds for four regional food banks, which support various local agencies to improve food security. This past holiday season's campaign provided 1 million meals, with donations from customers and employees, as well as proceeds from specific departments and private-label brands. Since its start in 2010, the program has grown significantly, and Big Y continues to support food banks with regular donations of various food items. Read the entire story on EDC Member BusinessWest: https://lnkd.in/ej3m3-Aj

Longer days bring new opportunities for Western Mass. As Daylight Saving Time begins on March 9, businesses benefit from extended daylight hours, which have been linked to increased consumer spending, lower energy costs, and higher productivity. Studies show that retail sales and foot traffic often rise with later sunsets, and industries like real estate and construction gain more working hours to complete projects. More time for showings, renovations, and community events means a stronger local economy. Let’s make the most of it.

Friday 3/7 is the Global Day of Unplugging. This promotes economic development by encouraging offline activities like dining, shopping, and attending events, boosting local economies and community ties. Unplugging also enhances workplace productivity and creativity, as refreshed employees return more engaged and innovative. Digital detox initiatives can drive investment in public spaces, promote tourism, and emphasize the economic value of human-centered experiences. This March, unplugging supports personal well-being, revitalizes local economies, and strengthens real-world relationships.

Big News for Local Farmers! The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation has joined as a lead funding partner for the Local Farmer Awards, now in its 11th year. Their generous support helps Western Mass farmers invest in essential equipment to grow and sustain their operations. Applications for the 2025 grants—up to $2,500—were open until Jan. 31, 2025 and winners will be announced in April. Click here to learn more: https://lnkd.in/eiNuXvZ2 #WesternMass #LocalFarms #EconomicGrowth #CommunitySupport

The Western Mass EDC is proud to support job growth in our community. Don’t miss the Springfield Public Schools (Massachusetts) Job Fair on Saturday, March 15 from 11am – 2pm at MGM Springfield. You will meet hiring managers and can even apply on the spot. Whether you're experienced or looking for a fresh start, Springfield Public Schools has opportunities for you, including: - Bus monitors - Crossing guards - Security guards - Custodians - Teachers and paraeducators Roles include competitive pay, great benefits, room to advance, and a supportive work environment! Hope to see you there.?

EDC Member, Glenn Davis, is a dedicated leader in economic and community development, with a career spanning multiple industries. As Vice President, Community Development/ CRA Officer at Liberty Bank, he fosters economic growth and financial accessibility, leading Community Reinvestment activities, urban market development, and financial education programs. Previously, at MassMutual Financial Group, he contributed to Springfield’s redevelopment and managed the first-time homebuyer program. As a founding partner of Branch Financial Services, he provided capital funding and consulting to businesses and nonprofits. His work with various organizations highlights his commitment to sustainable economic progress. Glenn's efforts at Liberty Bank ensure financial resources reach those in need, making him a valuable asset to the community. We celebrate Glenn’s contributions and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make in Western Massachusetts and beyond. Liberty Bank, established in 1825, is the oldest and largest independent mutual bank in the U.S., with over $7.5 billion in assets and 57 branches in Connecticut and Massachusetts. They are a mutually-owned, full service financial institution that believes communities are built on kindness and has been recognized as a top workplace and best-in-state bank for its commitment to service and community involvement.

A manufacturing company, Sublime Systems, has announced they are spreading their roots to Holyoke. Read more from EDC Member, WWLP-22News: https://lnkd.in/eckfzb9W