Western Mass Economic Development Council

06/18/2026

This summer, the Springfield Museums are once again opening their doors to those who serve our country through the Blue Star Museums program. Active duty military personnel and their families can enjoy free admission from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day, creating opportunities to explore art, history, science, and culture together.

Programs like this not only recognize the sacrifices of military families but also highlight the important role our region’s cultural institutions play in strengthening community connections, supporting tourism, and enhancing quality of life across Western Massachusetts.

We applaud the Springfield Museums for continuing to make learning, discovery, and family experiences more accessible to those who serve.

06/17/2026

Thanks to Patrick Barry for hosting Aaron Vega, our President and CEO, on “In Focus” to talk about his first six months in this role at the Western Mass Economic Development Council. Among many topics, they discussed some of the initiatives we’re working on. Don’t miss it.

Check in out here!

InFocus featuring Aaron Vega (EDC First 6 Months)

06/16/2026

Today is Fresh Veggies Day and it is the perfect opportunity to recognize the important role agriculture plays in Western Massachusetts. From family farms and farm stands to farmers markets and food producers, agriculture contributes significantly to our regional economy while providing residents with access to fresh, locally grown food. It also helps preserve open space, supports local jobs, and strengthens communities throughout the region.

Looking to shop local? Here are just a few farmers markets happening across Western Massachusetts:

- Hampden County: Springfield Business Improvement District Farmers Market, Fridays from 11am to 3pm at The Landing at the MassMutual Center.
- Hampshire County: Grow Food Northampton's Tuesday Market, every Tuesday from 1pm to 6pm on the plaza behind Thornes Marketplace in downtown Northampton.
- Franklin County: Greenfield Farmers Market, every Saturday from 9am to 1:30pm at Court Square in downtown Greenfield.

And if none of these are convenient, there are many more farmers markets throughout the Commonwealth. Check out the Mass Farmers Markets interactive map at https://www.massfarmersmarkets.org/markets to find one near your home or workplace and support local agriculture this season.

06/11/2026

Just toured Florrent in Sunderland. Another example of an innovation based company located here in Westen Mass.

florrent is a clean technology company manufacturing high-performance supercapacitors used for grid modernization, renewable energy, and commercial power stabilization.

06/11/2026

Last month the EDC Board and Members gathered for the Annual Meeting. It was a terrific luncheon at The Sheraton Springfield convening leaders and change makers. This event gives us a chance to look back at the past year as well as outline some of the exciting new initiatives on the horizon. Enjoy a few photos from this years event.

If you couldn’t make it, please take a look at our 2025 Annual Report and check out all we’ve accomplished and the great things we have in store. https://issuu.com/repubnews/docs/edc_2025_annual_report

06/10/2026

Looking for your next career opportunity? Looking to grow your team with talented local candidates?

“Hot Dogs for Hot Jobs” returns this Friday, June 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Heritage State Park in Holyoke. This even has been happening for 18 years… bringing together employers and job seekers for a casual and engaging hiring event designed to make meaningful connections.

Hosted by MassHire Holyoke Career Center, the event provides an opportunity for businesses to meet prospective employees while job seekers can learn about available positions, explore career pathways, and connect directly with hiring organizations.

Workforce development remains one of the most important drivers of economic growth in our region, and events like this help strengthen those connections between employers and talent.

Whether you are hiring, job searching, or simply exploring your next opportunity, this afternoon of networking, career opportunities, music, raffle prizes, and free hot dogs in a fun and welcoming atmosphere is certainly an event worth checking out.

06/09/2026

THE BRIGHT SPOT – our good news report for the region!

- Country Bank was recognized with the Chamber Legacy Award for its long standing commitment to community investment and regional leadership. The bank also announced a $100,000 pledge to support the YWCA of Western Massachusetts and its efforts to expand services and opportunities for local residents.

- The City of Chicopee welcomed its new Economic Development Director, David Daniels. With a strong background in economic and community development, Daniels will help lead efforts to support business growth, investment, and revitalization throughout the city.

- Monson Savings Bank announced a $100,000 contribution to the YWCA of Western Massachusetts campaign, reinforcing the organization's commitment to strengthening communities and supporting programs that benefit women, children, and families.

- Eversource was recognized by VETS Indexes as a 5 Star Employer for its commitment to recruiting, hiring, developing, and supporting veterans and members of the military community.

- Through the Resilient Valley initiative, more than $170,000 will be distributed to 50 nonprofit organizations across the region. The funding will support a wide variety of community programs and services that enhance quality of life throughout the Pioneer Valley.

- A beloved Springfield breakfast and lunch destination has reopened. Moving into downtown on Worthington Street, they’re bringing new energy to the city's dining scene while restoring a popular gathering place for workers, residents, and visitors.

- Beacon Bank announced a new initiative that provides free accessibility support technology for visually impaired customers at all branch locations. The effort reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible banking experience.

- The Tech Foundry is now recruiting for its 2026 training cohorts. Through its no cost programs, participants can gain valuable technology skills, earn industry recognized credentials, receive career readiness training, and explore emerging areas including artificial intelligence and audio visual technology. Monthly stipends are also available to qualifying participants. Google “The Tech Foundry” for info or to register.

- Holyoke Credit Union recently wrapped up a successful book drive that collected more than 500 books for local children and families. The effort helps promote literacy while supporting organizations that serve young readers throughout the community.

From workforce development and education to community investment, accessibility, entrepreneurship, and economic growth, these stories demonstrate the many ways organizations across Western Massachusetts continue to make our region stronger. We look forward to sharing more bright spots next month.

06/05/2026

Tomorrow, June 6, is National Higher Education Day and we’re proud to recognize the colleges and universities that help drive innovation, workforce development, research, and economic growth throughout Western Massachusetts.

We’re honored to have so many outstanding institutions as EDC Members, including:
🎓 American International College
📚 Bay Path University
✏️ Elms College
👩‍🎓 Greenfield Community College
💡 Holyoke Community College
🎓 Mount Holyoke College
📚 Smith College
✏️ Springfield College
👩‍🎓 Springfield Technical Community College
💡 University of Massachusetts Amherst
🎓 Western New England University
📚 Westfield State University

The impact of higher education can be seen across our region every day in many, many ways. Here are just a FEW recent examples:

- AIC recently partnered with Sophia Learning to expand access and flexibility for working adult learners, helping more individuals advance their education while balancing career and family responsibilities.

- The HCC Foundation awarded more than $405,000 in scholarships, providing critical support to students pursuing their academic and career goals.

- STCC was named a finalist in the National Community College Innovation Challenge, earning national recognition for student driven innovation and problem solving.

- At UMass Amherst, the new Public Health and Health Sciences Hub officially opened, bringing together six departments under one roof for the first time and creating new opportunities for collaboration, research, and learning.

Thank you to all of our higher education partners for preparing the workforce of tomorrow, advancing knowledge, and strengthening the economic future of Western Massachusetts.

06/04/2026

One of the best ways to support our local economy is by supporting the restaurants, chefs, and small businesses that help make our communities vibrant and unique.

EDC Affiliate, the Amherst Business Improvement District (Amherst BID), is proud to host Amherst Restaurant Week beginning this Sunday and continuing through June 13. This annual celebration showcases the incredible dining experiences available throughout Amherst and offers a great opportunity to discover a new favorite restaurant or revisit a longtime local staple.

We encourage residents and visitors alike to get out, explore, and support the talented food and hospitality businesses that contribute so much to the vitality of the region.

For more information check out their website at https://www.amherstdowntown.com/restaurantweek.

06/03/2026

Congratulations to Xiomara Albán DeLobato on being named a Commonwealth Heroine as part of the Class of 2026. This well-deserved recognition celebrates her leadership, dedication, and commitment to making a positive impact across our region and Commonwealth.

And while we’re celebrating this exciting honor, we are also sharing a bittersweet announcement. Xiomara, our long time Vice President and Chief of Staff, has accepted a new role serving the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Throughout her time with the EDC, Xiomara has been a passionate advocate for Western Massachusetts, a trusted leader, and an invaluable partner to countless businesses, organizations, and community stakeholders. Her impact on our region has been significant and lasting.

Please join us in congratulating Xiomara on both this prestigious recognition and her next chapter. We are grateful for all she has contributed to the EDC and Western Massachusetts and wish her continued success in the years ahead.

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Aaron Vega