ABOVE: Chamber & Chill is a gathering for professionals to network and unwind.
APEX
By Dave Droschak
As executive director of the Apex Chamber of Commerce, David Bohm realizes formal networking events and ribbon cuttings don’t move the organization toward being part of a deeper, connected community. “We did a survey this past summer [to find] the number one value members saw from the Apex Chamber,” says Bohm. “It wasn’t more business expos or golf tournaments; it was connectedness, a way to be able to relate to individuals one-on-one. They wanted to come together as a community to be able to support one another.”
So Bohm formed a 10-person volunteer committee of business leaders to launch the concept of Connection Circles. The initial wave of these informal gatherings were what Bohm would describe as rousing successes.
“These are meant to have that different feel, different vibe—be more organically grown, and just see where we will have success,” says Bohm. “I’m calling this the Apex Chamber Difference—of building relationships, not transactions.”
The gatherings, broken into four categories—Chamber & Chill, Home Solutions, She Means Business, and Young Professionals Coming Together—are free, and open to both Apex Chamber members and nonmembers. Bohm hopes that an increase in popularity will show nonmembers the benefits of joining, and that members will see the increased value.
Every week, the Apex Chamber receives visitors from out of state or those looking to start or move a business here. “They see our downtown, and they’re sold. The economic vitality is the attraction, and the community itself,” he says. “I see nothing but growth on the horizon. We’re riding a very good wave of success, but that is also built on the backs of those who have planted the seeds here and put us in a position to be successful for the future.”
Bohm believes the Connection Circles fit in well with the overall direction of the live, work and play movement seen in such locations as the Sweetwater Town Center development of retail, office and apartment homes.
“It’s great to be able to have multiple business hubs that exist, so you don’t have 80,000 people all descending on downtown Apex every weekend,” says Bohm. “At that point people are going to get frustrated and say there is too much congestion, too much going on, and they just won’t deal with it. These are what I call ‘relief valves’ based around our community as a whole. You want more hubs out there versus just having a one-stop shop.”
Bohm would like to see the Connection Circles evolve on an interest or needs basis. “That’s kind of been the beauty, to watch this evolve,” he says. “We haven’t given the Connections Circles committee any set parameters.” Bohm wants the gatherings to be organically driven, even if it means testing out all different topics.
“We’re trying to drive home the point of doing more things that bring folks together through connections,” Bohm says. “For us, it’s trying to do things based on relationships, not transactions. If you want something transactional, that’s a different group, that’s a different focus, that’s a different membership base that you need to be a part of. We want to grow organically through the connectedness of member-to-member, business-to-business or business-to-community, and these Connection Circles are one way of helping make that relationship flourish.”
CARY
By Kyle Marie McMahon
Starting a business is often a dream deferred—an idea scribbled in a notebook, a concept mulled over during commutes or a passion project shelved for “someday.” For some Cary residents, that “someday” begins with LaunchCary.
This Chamber of Commerce initiative, in partnership with Wake Technical Community College, is designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs through mentorship, education and accountability. The program runs once a year, offering a 10-week curriculum that guides participants through the fundamentals of starting and sustaining a business. Topics range from financial planning and marketing strategies to pitch development and pricing models. But for many, the real value lies in the community it builds.
“LaunchCary is a hands-on program that gives people the confidence and connections to take the leap, often using it as a catapult to success” says Mark Lawson, president of the Cary Chamber of Commerce. Each cohort consists of 12 to 18 individuals at various stages of business development. Some arrive with a clear plan and others with just an idea—but all are welcomed into a collaborative, encouraging space. One of those individuals is Stephen McNulty, who completed LaunchCary in early 2024. His business, The Refreshery, is scheduled to open this summer on East Chatham Street in the new Meridian East Chatham development. The grab-and-go cafe will offer cold-pressed juices, specialty coffee, teas, social tonics and snacks—providing a stylish, nonalcoholic gathering spot in the heart of downtown.
For McNulty, the program marked the turning point between dream and action. “I’ve always had a dream to be an entrepreneur, but kept it to myself,” he says. “This gave me a chance to vet my idea and have resources to ask questions and bounce ideas off of. I knew that if I joined this program,
I wouldn’t have any excuses left.”
Over 10 weeks, participants meet weekly for three-hour sessions, tackling a business plan and budget for their project. The setting is both practical and intimate, creating room for vulnerability and collaboration. “It’s rare as an entrepreneur to find people you can share the struggles and dreams with,” says McNulty. “This allowed that. It was also a very diverse room, both personally and professionally, so it provided a wide range of feedback, input and experiences to learn from.”
That shared experience created lasting connections. In fact, McNulty has already returned to speak to the current cohort, sharing insights from his marketing background and lessons learned in real time. “It feels good to give back to the program that provided me so much value,” he says.
While McNulty continues working full-time until the shop’s grand opening, he credits LaunchCary with helping him stay the course through the challenges and risks, especially as a busy father of three children under the age of four.
“It wouldn’t have happened without the program,” he admits. “It allowed me to dedicate time I otherwise wouldn’t have taken. Then, when I hit a hurdle where, in the past, I would’ve just moved on, it forced me to keep going. Then it gave it legitimacy. I vetted the idea thoroughly, and now I have the confidence from the class and the support to keep pushing.”
That accountability is built into the structure of the program, which McNulty compares to having a personal trainer for your business goals. “Sure, the gym is right there at my disposal to go any time, but it’s a lot easier when you have the training partner meeting you there at an agreed-upon time and holding you accountable to finish the reps,” he says. “It’s amazing what you can do over the course of 30 hours in 10 weeks with the right people.”
LaunchCary is open to any Cary resident with a business idea or early-stage venture they’re ready to develop. Applications typically open in the fall for the following year’s cohort. According to Lawson, interest in the program continues to grow. “Our goal is to be the launchpad—not just for businesses, but for the people behind them,” he says. When a graduate opens a storefront, starts an online shop or even just gains the confidence to keep going, that’s a win for all of Cary.
FUQUAY-VARINA
By Heather Darnell
If Dustin Williams were to use one word to describe what he’s most proud about achieving as president of the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce, it would be “consistency.” Consistent programming at a chamber is an “equalizer,” he explains, because it benefits both bigger and smaller businesses.
But often, it’s the small businesses that need to be creative in making connections, and this is where a chamber of commerce can help.
“We’re the cheerleader marketing arm for your business,” says Williams. “We’re making sure we get as many people as we can to be around your business and get you a new client and a new relationship.” But Williams encourages business owners to be proactive. “You have got to get out in your community and tell people who you are.”
One way to do that is by becoming an active member at the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce. Its focus on consistent programming has allowed it to become the fastest-growing chamber of commerce in North Carolina. Some of the growth is due to the town’s growth, but it’s also thanks to regular events.
Greg Harris, owner of Leapfrog Landcare, an organic-based lawn, tree and shrub company, started attending these events in 2023 but grew discouraged that he hadn’t gained any new clients. Several months later, someone he met at a chamber event asked for a quote. Then another chamber member did the same. Both leads turned into contracts that were about a six-figure revenue boost for his business.
Harris says he feels like the year of consistently showing up and networking in person was well worth the effort. “That’s pretty good for just showing up once a month and saying ‘Hi, my name is Greg.’ As a landscaper, I see everything that you do as sowing seeds. Where the magic starts to happen is when you start to get to know people.”
Williams agrees. “Everybody does business with people they like and trust. We want to make sure that everyone is given a voice.”
One way the chamber does that is with its Business Exchange Breakfast, a meeting for small businesses to get exposure and meet other business owners in the community. They are held by a host organization who sponsors the event, and each business owner in attendance has the opportunity to give a 30-second elevator pitch to share who they are and what they do.
Nickie McKenzie used to dread events like this. McKenzie is a massage therapist, nutrition coach and personal trainer at McKenzie Therapeutics. She initially joined the chamber in 2017, but couldn’t bring herself to go to an event. “I sat in the parking lot for 20 minutes and then I left because I was so terrified,” she says. McKenzie rejoined in 2023 and is now the chair of the Ambassadors program, which reaches out to chamber members to help them get connected and feel welcome. “I started getting involved with the chamber and utilizing the networking events, and it has helped me grow my business so much. I am booked out six weeks in advance now,” she says.
Other chamber events that benefit small businesses are the monthly Business After Hours program, a casual, open house–style event, and weekly ribbon cuttings for new businesses, which provide touchpoints of connection and welcome.
Members Thomas and Wendy Gavin, owners of Fat Cat Homemade Ice Cream, opened their shop in a shared space on Broad Street with Bolt Drinks and Coffee, but they dreamed of having a dedicated space of their own. At their ribbon cutting they spoke with another chamber member who owned a commercial property and was looking for tenants, which resulted in plans for Fat Cat to expand and move across the street in June. “We’re really trying to get as involved as we can in the community,” Gavin says. “We love Fuquay, and we’re going to grow in Fuquay.”
This is exactly the kind of small business growth the chamber hopes to see. McKenzie summarizes the attitude of its members: “Small businesses help each other out, and we lift each other up when we can.”
HOLLY SPRINGS
By Jennifer Axness
Small businesses are the heart of Holly Springs, and the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to ensuring they have the resources, connections, and the support needed to thrive. “With 95% of our members being small businesses with fewer than 25 employees—including a significant number of home-based businesses—we tailor our resources to meet their unique needs,” says Tonya Palumbo, executive director. “I have had several conversations with business owners who relocated here and told me they wish they had started their business in Holly Springs because of the resources available,” she adds.
The chamber has a wide range of programs designed to help businesses at every stage of their journey. “We offer ribbon-cutting ceremonies to help new businesses gain visibility, Business After Hours events that facilitate networking, and Breakfast Eye Openers that combine networking with educational opportunities on local business developments,” Palumbo says.
In 2024, the chamber successfully launched a Business Education Series, featuring monthly presentations from industry experts on topics such as business law, effective networking, marketing, cybersecurity and investments. One of the chamber’s key partnerships is with Wake Technical Community College, which offers educational programs, mentorship opportunities and access to capital.
Advocacy is at the core of the chamber’s mission. “As the collective voice of the business community, we amplify the concerns of small businesses to ensure they are heard at all levels of government,” says Palumbo. “While an individual business owner’s voice is important, the chamber amplifies those voices to create meaningful impact and drive positive change. The advocacy ranges from local legislation, including a social district, to securing infrastructure for the longevity of our community, including water and transportation. These resources are at the heart of the long-term success of our community.”
The chamber understands the importance of visibility for small businesses and hosts several large-scale events to connect them with the community. SpringsFest, held each spring in downtown Holly Springs, celebrates the town’s vibrant culture with live entertainment, family-friendly activities and vendor showcases. WinterFest, hosted in December at Ting Park, transforms the season into a festive experience with holiday shopping and entertainment.
Many small businesses have flourished thanks to the chamber’s programs and connections. One standout initiative has been helping businesses become HUB-certified (Historically Underutilized Business). A shining example is Mobile Saltworks, a unique mobile halotherapy business. The company now works with Holly Springs’ police and fire departments to provide this service to first responders at no cost, ensuring those who serve our community have access to resources that support their well-being.
As Holly Springs continues to grow, the chamber is preparing for the future with a new workforce development program designed to address hiring challenges. “Through partnerships with Capital Area Workforce Development and NC Works, we are creating direct connections between employers and job seekers, with a particular focus on skilled trades and health care—two industries experiencing critical labor shortages,” says Palumbo. This program will include industry roundtables, panel discussions and a hiring event.
While Holly Springs’ economic outlook remains strong, the chamber is prepared to support businesses through any potential challenges. “At the chamber, our role goes beyond networking—we actively advocate, educate and connect to help businesses succeed, no matter the challenges,” says Palumbo. Through collaboration, innovation and community engagement, the chamber ensures that Holly Springs remains a hub for entrepreneurship and economic opportunity for years to come.
MORRISVILLE
By Samantha Gratton
Sometimes it’s just a matter of meeting the right person to make the next right thing in life not only a possibility, but a reality. Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here your whole life, it can be challenging to meet that person. The Morrisville Chamber of Commerce wants to make sure meaningful connections are made, so they created two events to help you meet people with a variety of backgrounds, work experience and personal goals.
For most people, walking into a room full of strangers isn’t their ideal way to start the day. But the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce’s Coffee & Connections event makes it easy to go from strangers to genuine connections in a matter of an hour and a half. “I think people gravitate toward it because it is a very unassuming atmosphere. It’s very friendly and open, and everyone feels welcome,” says Christie Moser, president of the chamber. “And then they make very meaningful connections out of it—I think that’s what most people continue to come for.”
Set up a bit like speed dating, after an initial time of mingling, the 30 or so people who attend the monthly event sit down before counting off. Participants head to the corresponding table number and start chatting with the four or five other people seated with them. This smaller group setting allows people to share what they do and what their goals are, and trade business cards over the course of about ten minutes before counting off and doing it all again.
At the tables are newcomers, regulars, and volunteer ambassadors for the chamber. Not to mention coffee of course. Small business owners, major health organizations, banking institutions, city employees and even the mayor were all at a recent spring Coffee & Connections.
Michele Wilson, general contractor with Sonder Luxe Home Solutions and one of the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce’s 10 volunteer ambassadors, says the chamber gives her a great opportunity to be known and meet others. “I fell in love with the people here—they have done a lot for supporting small business,” she says.
At one Coffee & Connections event, a connection was made between someone whose spouse was looking for work and someone who worked in employment services, which later resulted in the spouse securing a position as a paralegal. Sometimes the connections go outside of primary employment as people relate instead over hobbies, volunteer opportunities or side hustles. At every table is a welcome face and willing attitude to see where the connection could go.
“I love going to Coffee & Connections because it’s not just about meeting genuine people, it’s also a great way to learn about everything our community has to offer,” says Mackenzie Gokey, director of marketing for Triangle Smart Divorce. “There’s always something new to discover!”
For life science businesses and employees, the chamber hosts quarterly networking events, where those in industries such as medical, environmental, IT and construction gather to speak about what’s happening in the community. This popular after-hours program usually has about 80–120 people in attendance, including Wake county dignitaries and even North Carolina General Assembly state senators.
“We are considered a life science hub,” says Wendy Peele, Morrisville’s chamber vice president. “We have more life science here than most places. We rival places like Boston, Austin and San Francisco.”
At one of the previous events a group of professionals struck up a conversation with an executive of a large life sciences company, which led to an ongoing relationship, and ultimately resulted in a contract for two large projects.
“Small business is very important to us—me in particular. I’ve owned a couple of small businesses, and I know what it’s like. So whenever I can connect small businesses with larger businesses, or even micro-businesses with larger businesses, it can be life-changing for them,” says Peele. “I always tell people: One person can change the trajectory of your business.”
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