Western Mass Economic Development Council

09/02/2026

Who are the top innovators in Western Massachusetts right now?

The Western Mass EDC wants to hear from you.

We’re looking for the people and organizations shaping what comes next for our region.

The entrepreneurs building something new.
The manufacturers solving hard problems.
The researchers advancing breakthrough work.
The employers creating jobs and investment.
The educators developing talent.
The healthcare, civic and community leaders creating meaningful change.
And the organizations doing work that more of Western Mass should know about.

From Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden Counties, who is making a real impact right now?

Comment below and tag the individuals or organizations you think belong in the conversation. And tell us why.

We want to make sure the people and organizations moving Western Massachusetts forward are seen, connected and recognized.

Who should we know?

08/25/2026

Western Massachusetts needs a seat at the table when decisions are being made about the future of our Commonwealth’s economy.

We’re proud to see former Western Mass EDC Vice President and Chief of Staff Xiomara Albán DeLobato, MBA bringing that regional perspective to her role on the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission.

Cannabis has become an important part of the Western Massachusetts economy, supporting businesses, entrepreneurs, jobs and investment across the region. As the industry evolves, it’s important that regulation continues to protect public safety while also creating an environment where responsible businesses can succeed.

“I understand how important this industry is to our region. We need regulations that protect public safety without creating unnecessary burdens that make it harder for responsible businesses to operate, grow and create jobs.”

Aaron Vega, President & CEO, Western Mass EDC

Xiomara’s appointment is also another reminder of why Western Massachusetts representation matters. Our region has distinct industries, assets and opportunities, and those perspectives need to be represented in statewide conversations.

BusinessWest takes a deeper look at the challenges and opportunities ahead for the Cannabis Control Commission and the industry across Massachusetts.

  Local Perspective When Xiomara Albán DeLobato was offered a chance to serve on the state’s reconstituted Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), she saw it as the natural next step in […]

08/20/2026

For nearly a decade, Anne Kandilis has helped build Springfield WORKS into an important force for economic mobility, workforce development, and opportunity across our region.

We congratulate Anne on an extraordinary tenure and thank her for the leadership, vision, and commitment she has brought to this work and to the many partners and residents who have helped make it possible.

As Springfield WORKS prepares for its next chapter, we are also excited to help share the search for its next Executive Director. This is an incredible opportunity for a collaborative, forward-thinking leader to build on a strong foundation and help shape what comes next.

Please join us in congratulating Anne, and help us spread the word about this important leadership opportunity.

Learn more about Anne’s impact and the Executive Director opportunity below.

A new chapter is ahead for Springfield WORKS. ❤️💙
After nearly a decade of extraordinary leadership, Executive Director Anne Kandilis will retire at the end of 2026.
We are deeply grateful for Anne’s vision, commitment, and leadership and for the partnerships and progress she has helped build across our region.
As we celebrate Anne’s incredible impact, we’re also looking toward what comes next.
Springfield WORKS is searching for our next Executive Director!

We’re looking for a collaborative, mission-driven leader ready to build on our strong foundation and bring new ideas, fresh energy, and a bold vision for the next decade of Springfield WORKS.
📍 Springfield, MA | Hybrid
💼 Full-Time
💰 $165,000–$180,000 + benefits
📅 Apply by September 9, 2026

Know someone who would be a great fit? Share this post and help us spread the word!

🔗 Learn more and apply below

https://springfieldworks.net/celebrating-a-decade-of-leadership-looking-ahead-springfield-works-begins-search-for-next-executive-director/

08/18/2026

There is so much happening across Western Massachusetts that most of us never get the opportunity to see firsthand.

Western Mass EDC members recently stepped behind the scenes at The Republican/ in Springfield to see the operation, meet the people behind it and learn more about an institution that has long played an important role in our region.

Just as important was bringing together leaders from businesses and organizations across Western Massachusetts to connect, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships.

After the tour, the conversation continued at Pridelands by White Lion with White Lion Brewing Company.

Take a look inside 👇

Then read the full story and hear why Tara Brewster of Greenfield Savings Bank believes connecting Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties can help “strengthen the region as a whole rather than as separate pieces.”

08/18/2026

Today, we're celebrating the nonprofits that strengthen our communities and make a difference across Western Massachusetts.

We're grateful for all the nonprofit organizations that are part of the WMEDC, as well as the many others working throughout our region every day. Thank you to the leaders, staff, and volunteers who make this work possible and help build a stronger Western Mass.

Tag a nonprofit that's made a difference in your community - let's celebrate them!

08/13/2026

Some exciting news to share!

YWCA's Young Parent Residential Programs in Holyoke and Springfield passed their extensive EEC audits with flying colors - no citations at all! On top of that, the Supportive/Transitional Housing Program earned a perfect audit from the Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities.

Congratulations to the dedicated staff for these outstanding results!

08/12/2026

A Generous Gift to YWCA in Memory of Eileen Monaghan 💙

On Monday, July 20, the Hampden County Sheriff's Posse - an organization created just one year ago to support domestic violence awareness and prevention across the county - presented the YWCA with a $50,000 donation at Springfield Country Club.

The gift was made in memory of Eileen Monaghan, executive assistant to Sheriff Nick Cocchi, who was tragically killed by her boyfriend in 2024. Funds were raised during the Sheriff's Posse's second annual golf tournament, which brought together more than 250 participants and supporters in her honor.

Thank you to everyone who came together to support survivors of domestic violence in our community.

08/11/2026

Join us tomorrow at Pridelands by White Lion!!!

More information on our page. Hope to see you there!

08/08/2026

Last week, WMEDC met with Westfield State University leadership to discuss workforce development and new opportunities to connect students with employers across Western Massachusetts.

Together, WMEDC and WSU are exploring ways to expand career pathways through internships, co-ops, and apprenticeships, creating opportunities for students while supporting the region’s workforce needs.

Read the full story: https://www.westernmassedc.com/building-connections-between-education-and-industry-wmedc-meets-with-westfield-state-university/