President’s & CEO’s Update – March 2026
March 3, 2026
After the cold and snowy winter we’ve experienced, it’s encouraging to see the days getting longer and signs of spring (wherever they are!) beginning to appear across Greater Cape Ann. March marks a shift from winter planning into a more active season for the Chamber, as we continue building on a strong start to 2026 and prepare for the busy months ahead.
Before looking forward, February provided several strong opportunities for engagement. Our Wellness Fair on February 25 at the Cape Ann YMCA was well attended and brought together a diverse group of health and wellness providers and community members. We are grateful to the Cape Ann YMCA for hosting and for their partnership in supporting the well-being of our local workforce and residents. The following evening, our Marketing Seminar on February 26 saw excellent participation from local business owners focused on strengthening their marketing efforts. The response reinforced the demand for practical, actionable programming, and we look forward to continuing the Small Business Seminar Series with additional sessions planned for March and April. February also featured a successful Business After Hours at Saluti, with approximately 50 members and guests in attendance. The evening provided a valuable opportunity for networking and relationship-building, demonstrating once again the importance of in-person connection within our business community.
March programming continues that momentum. On Thursday, March 12, we will host our Irish Sweepstakes drawing from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The James Pub in Essex. This annual fundraiser remains an important part of supporting the Chamber’s work, with only 400 raffle tickets sold at $100 each and a top prize of $10,000. We look forward to another lively and well-attended evening.
Morning Momentum at Mile Marker One’s igloos offered a strong start to the month, and our Business After Hours at BankGloucester in Ipswich on March 18 will provide another opportunity to connect. On Thursday, March 19, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m., we will host our annual Economic Outlook Breakfast at the Magnolia Library and Community Center. This program will bring together regional leaders and business owners for a practical conversation about the economic forces shaping Greater Cape Ann and what they mean for local businesses planning for the year ahead. We will also host a Candidate Forum for the MA House 5th Essex District seat on March 20 at Manchester Essex High School, underscoring the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to civic engagement and informed participation.
Behind the scenes, planning for our spring and summer events continues at a steady pace. We are also finalizing the upcoming edition of the Greater Cape Ann Guide. As one of the Chamber’s most visible promotional tools, the Guide plays an important role in showcasing our businesses and communities to both residents and visitors, and we look forward to its release and distribution.
As we move through March, our focus remains on connection, advocacy, and preparation. We appreciate the continued involvement of our members and partners and are encouraged by the strong participation we’ve seen so far this year. With steady progress and continued collaboration, we are well positioned for an active and productive spring.
Warmly,
Keith Harris, President, GCACC Board of Directors
Sam Bevins, CEO, Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce