Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council

With only a few days left in Manufacturing Month we wanted to share our Industry Insight into this vital sector for the region.

ICYMI… more great news for workforce development! Tech Foundry receives grant. “Tech Foundry works at the intersection of workforce and economic development, connecting low-to-moderate income and underrepresented people to technical training, professional development, coaching, internships, and job placement, so they can access living-wage jobs,” said Tricia Canavan, Tech Foundry CEO. ”Their skills help create a thriving economy, as employers have access to new pools of talent to support their business needs.”

We're thrilled to see the growth of the Western Massachusetts community and can only hope that the region continues to see thriving communities. Sublime Systems, a manufacturer of low-carbon cement, has invested in Western Massachusetts' first commercial facility in Holyoke in the coming years. Read more by visiting this link. "Sublime’s plans in Holyoke reinforces the idea that Massachusetts is becoming the innovation capital of the United States,” said Congressman Neal.

Our mission is to deliver services and resources to businesses within the Western Massachusetts communities to help improve the region's economy. We are celebrating National Women's Small Business Month this month and hope you will join in on spreading awareness, supporting local, and shopping small! Did you know? According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), in 1972 there were a little over 400,000 women-owned businesses in the United States. Today, there are over 13 million women-owned businesses(Link is external) and counting. Lets recognize these women-owned businesses and their lasting impact on the economy. We are proud of our EDC members, some of which represent women entrepreneurs, and look forward to seeing where their businesses take them. We are proud to provide educational resources to individuals within the community and businesses alike, and hope that we can help make an impact.

As you may already know, affordable housing has been a MAJOR economic development issue. But in the midst of all of this, here is some wonderful news regarding Springfield's South End.

Be sure to register for a unique event we're hosting alongside Bay Path University, the Cybersecurity Summit: Exploring AI: Current Trends and Future Directions, happening on October 18th! This event will take place in Carr Hall at Bay Path University or virtually, should you choose, from 10-11:30am. Richard Diver will discuss how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming cybersecurity, offering enormous potential but requiring diversity in design and testing. Visit the link below to register.

We've been looking forward to sharing these photos with you all! Here is a look at EDC's visit with members of the Irish Consulate last month. We were thrilled to spend a full day with the Irish Consulate members, and thank the Springfield Regional Chamber for help with planning their visit. We had an incredible time especially while visiting the #1 voted Best Campus Food from none other than University of Massachusetts Amherst! We thank all of the folks who visited with us and are grateful for our time well spent, Breandán Fitzgerald Mayor of Kerry County, UMass Amherst, the Springfield Regional Chamber, Christopher Howland, MBA, and Ken Toong UMass Auxiliary Enterprises and EDC executive commitee member Jaimye Kelley to name a few.

Today's #EDCMemberHighlight is all about Craig Reed, the Chief Financial Officer at All States Materials Group! All States Materials Group aims to better serve their customers each and every day and Craig has continued to guide his company in doing just that, while inviting a variety of companies with new ideas and experience to join their family. Craig is a proven and dedicated executive, who has demonstrated a strong record of leadership throughout his professional career. He has a passion for attracting, retaining and developing talent, while instilling commitment to integrity and loyalty amongst his peers. He takes pride in his work and the growth of his organization, and we are proud to have him be a part of the EDC community!

Be sure to register for a unique event we're hosting alongside Bay Path University, the Cybersecurity Summit: Exploring AI: Current Trends and Future Directions, happening on October 18th! This event will take place in Carr Hall at Bay Path University or virtually, should you choose, from 10-11:30am. Richard Diver will discuss how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming cybersecurity, offering enormous potential but requiring diversity in design and testing. Visit the link below to register.

Xio, our very own Vice President and Chief of Staff, attended Glenmeadow's inaugural Age of Excellence Awards Ceremony last month at The Carriage House at The Barney Estate. Glenmeadow created this recognition program to shine a spotlight on individuals not only redefining aging but also reshaping our perceptions of what it means to grow older. Over 150 individuals gathered for this first-of-its-kind event. Guests, including the Honorable Mayor Domenic Sarno, Massachusetts State Representative Orlando Ramos, and Springfield City Councilor Zaida Govan (Ward 8), were there to celebrate the eight honorees: 🏆 ▪️Dedicated Leader - Beyond the Badge: Springfield Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers, Palmer ▪️Champion of Community Voices: Debbie Gardner, Springfield ▪️Impactful Entrepreneur: Jeffrey Greim, Longmeadow ▪️Dynamic Difference Maker: Ethel Griffin, Springfield ▪️Game-Changing Mentor: James Lagodich, Springfield ▪️Inspiring Changemaker: Maria Roy, Springfield ▪️Dedicated Community Connector: Karen Tetreault, Chicopee ▪️Honored Age of Excellence Recipient: Patrick Sullivan, Springfield Congratulations to those who are redefining life at 60 and beyond and to Glenmeadow for hosting an inspirational evening!