Springfield Regional Chamber & WesternMass EDC Announce the Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce Policy Network

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., March 21, 2023 – The Springfield Regional Chamber in partnership with the WesternMass Economic Development Council (EDC) announces the launch of the statewide policy network, the Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce Policy Network (the “Chambers Policy Network”). The Chambers Policy Network, led by the Presidents and Chief Executive Officers of large regional chambers of commerce, plans to use its collective statewide voice to advocate for policy and business issues that will strengthen the quality of life and economy in the Commonwealth. The Chambers Policy Network is designed to leverage the existing impact and on-the-ground local knowledge of these local Chambers to provide solutions to policy challenges that hinder the success and legacy of residents, employees, and businesses.? Our goal is a growing statewide economy that works for all and strengthens our ability to retain talent and businesses in Massachusetts.??

?The Chambers Policy Network will focus on the issues that directly tie to the region’s future: statewide competitiveness, taxes and revenue, transportation, broadband access, talent development and retention, housing, climate change, higher education, and the ease of doing business. Through this transformative and collaborative network, the immense value of businesses, their employees, and their Chambers are leveraged to advance statewide equity and economic opportunity.?

?“The launch of the Chambers Policy Network is the region’s first formal policy advocacy network of Chambers dedicated to solving the complex issues that our cities and entire state face. By unlocking the unique strengths of Chambers, we will be able to strategize and advance solutions to policy challenges. From housing to transportation, taxes, and business climate and more – all of these are interconnected and statewide issues that can help make Massachusetts a place where workers and businesses can succeed,” said James E. Rooney, President & CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.?

?“Chambers are always champions for local businesses and the people that power those businesses. This Network will advance our collective efforts and allow us to reach across Massachusetts, which is important as we elevate the voices of business leaders and build the future of the Commonwealth,” said Diana Szynal, President, Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce. Rick Sullivan, President & CEO, Western MA Economic Development Council added, “The Chambers Policy Network will elevate local Chambers helping to grow our economy, boost our workforce development, and support local businesses while expediting strategic solutions to policy challenges.”?

?The Chambers Policy Network will initially consist of ten of the largest Chambers from across the entire state as founding members with plans to expand to include other Chambers in 2024. Included in its plans are annual sharing of regional chamber policy priorities and yearly Chamber Policy Network visits to Beacon Hill and Capitol Hill to promote its agenda.?

??

? MA Chambers Policy Network Founding Members?

?James E. Rooney, President & CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce?

Tim Murray, President & CEO, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce?

Diana Szynal, President, Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce?

Rick Sullivan, President & CEO, Western MA Economic Development Council?

Paul Niedzwiecki, CEO, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce?

Peter Forman, President & CEO, South Shore Chamber of Commerce?

Karen Andreas, President & CEO, North Shore Chamber of Commerce?

Greg Reibman, President Charles River Regional Chamber?

Rick Kidder, Co-CEO, Michael O’Sullivan Co-CEO, One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce?

Jonathan Butler, President & CEO, 1Berkshire?

?

?

### ?

?

?About The Springfield Regional Chamber:??

?The Springfield Regional Chamber is a business association representing the region and its geographic hub of Springfield and more than 500 businesses of all sizes, industries, and professions, providing leadership in creating a healthy economic climate. To learn more and become a member, visit springfieldregionalchamber.com.??

?

About The WesternMass EDC:??

?The Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts (EDC) is a private, not-for-profit corporation that provides resources and information to businesses operating in or entering the region by aiding in expansion, relocation, and networking. Their mission is to deliver the business resources that will enable companies to thrive in Western Massachusetts while improving the region's economy and lifestyle through the creation of quality jobs and enhanced public and private investment. To learn more about the EDC, visit their website at: www.westernmassedc.com.?