Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber Structure
The Chamber is organized by divisions and committees which focus on specific goals and needs.

Tourist Division
In order to promote Cape Ann as a year-round visitor destination, this group publishes and distributes 250,000 Cape Ann brochures annually, maintains an 800-number for visitors, hosts a Travel Writers' Weekend to gain national media coverage, hosts an award-winning website, and purchases regional and national advertising. Sponsor of events such as the Waterfront Festival and the Schooner Festival, the Tourist Division is a vital force in the Cape Ann economy.

For additional information on the Tourist Division, contact Economic Development Manager Beth Morris.

Retail Division
Represents retailers on issues such as parking, municipal improvement projects, and beautification. The Committees also develop special promotions throughout the year including Sidewalk Bazaars, Holiday programs, and the Cape Ann Gift Certificate Program.

For additional information on the Retail Division, contact Economic Development Manager Beth Morris.

Industrial Division
A committee representing Cape Ann's industrial and fishing interests. Activities developed to promote these interests include the sponsorship of the New Fish Festival each June, publication of the Seafood Directory, and representation on various issues of concern to the manufacturing community.

For additional information on the Industrial Division, contact the Chamber.

Contractors' Division
Formed in 2004, this new Division focuses on the needs of tradespeople within the Chamber. Initial programs have included networking socials to bring contractors together, seminars geared toward the group, and representation at the local level on regulatory and permitting matters.

For additional information on the Contractors' Division, contact Chamber Executive Director Michael Costello.

Chamber Businesswomen
Focusing on the needs of women working in our region, this group seeks to expand communication and provide networking opportunities, educational programs, seminars, and business forums.

For additional information on the Chamber Businesswomen, contact Program Manager Judy Caulkett.

Government Affairs Committee
Highly successful forums for dialogue between local, state, and federal officials and the business community in a climate of cooperation have addressed complex issues such as tax classification, waterfront zoning, and industrial growth. Chamber-sponsored debates offer our members familiarity with the candidates for elected positions at all levels of government.

For additional information on the Government Affairs Committee, contact Chamber Executive Director Michael Costello.

Business / Education Collaborative
Linking businesspeople and area educators, the Collaborative has been successful in impacting how Cape Ann students are taught. Programs include a School Bank, the Mentor Program, the Science Lecture Series, Career Development Software, and scholarship awards.

For additional information on the Chamber's Business/Education Collaborative, contact Program Manager Judy Caulkett.

Member-based Programs
Programs in Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea answer the specific needs of businesses in the individual communities. Programs include retail promotions, Holistic Practitioner guide, tourist development, and community events.