The Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, proud partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, is closing out 2025 after a banner year of growth, impact and organizational transformation — positioning the organization for even greater opportunities for businesses, nonprofits and communities in 2026.

Over the past year, CCEDC experienced 20% overall membership growth, welcoming 55 new members and reinforcing its role as a central connector for the Carbon County business community. Event engagement surged, with an average attendance increase of 28%, eight sold-out signature events, and the launch of several new programs designed to meet members where they are.

In 2025, CCEDC hosted:

• Eight ribbon cuttings, celebrating business openings and expansions.

• Seven educational programs, including the launch of a new Lunch & Learn series.

• Expanded networking opportunities, including the launch of a new Happy Hour series and increased member-focused connection points throughout the year.

• Two community-focused events, strengthening connections beyond the business community.

On the economic development front, CCEDC disbursed $233,000 in Local Share Account grant funding, in partnership with local legislators, supporting impactful projects across the county.

The organization also launched a municipal road show, visiting 110 businesses in the fourth quarter of 2025 alone to strengthen relationships, identify needs and connect employers with available resources.

“This past year marked a turning point for our organization,” said Kylie Adams-Weiss, senior vice president of CCEDC. “From membership growth and record-setting events to expanded economic development outreach, 2025 affirmed that intentional investment in relationships, programs and strategy pays dividends for our entire community.”

In addition to programmatic growth, CCEDC underwent a comprehensive rebrand, expanded its internal team, and began executing a new strategic plan — all of which have already accelerated organizational momentum and capacity.

Looking ahead to 2026

Building on this foundation, CCEDC is preparing to roll out a robust slate of expanded and new initiatives in 2026, including:

• An expanded bimonthly Lunch & Learn Series.

• A monthly Happy Hour networking series.

• An expanded Career Fair Series, in partnership with Carbon CareerLink to better support workforce development.

• A new quarterly Economic Development Series focused on tools, funding and growth strategies.

• A new Employee Appreciation Event celebrating the local workforce.

• A Legislative Update program to keep members informed and engaged on policy matters impacting business.

“These initiatives are designed to create more touchpoints, more value, and more opportunities for collaboration and learning,” Adams-Weiss said. “As we look toward 2026, we’re focused on sustainable growth, deeper engagement, and ensuring our members and partners are well-positioned for success. Our signature events — such as our Annual Awards Gala, Sturm Cup Golf Tournament and State of the County — will always remain on our calendar, while these new initiatives are designed to engage the business community on a more consistent cadence.”

In addition to programming, CCEDC will focus efforts on increased advocacy for the business community, as well as an enhanced marketing strategy to elevate and share the stories of local businesses.

“We always say, ‘our reach is your reach,’ ” Adams-Weiss said. “We know we have a powerful voice and a responsibility to continue advocating for and representing our community. Our goal is to ensure we remain the ‘megaphone’ for the Carbon County business community.”

With a banner year behind it and new opportunities on the horizon, CCEDC enters 2026 energized, aligned and ready to continue advancing economic vitality throughout Carbon County.

For more information about CCEDC programs, membership or upcoming events, visit www.carboncountychamber.org or contact Adams-Weiss at kadams@carboncountychamber.org.