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The Southtowns Regional Chamber of Commerce announced a robust lineup of events and a renewed strategic focus on tourism and regional awareness for 2026. The initiatives aim to support member business growth, elevate community engagement, and highlight the Southtowns as a vibrant destination.
Tourism & Awareness
The Southtowns Regional Chamber will launch targeted marketing campaigns – both grassroots and paid – designed to promote tourism and drive economic activity across the region. In conjunction with these campaigns, the Chamber is pursuing new partnerships to provide even more value to our member businesses.
“Reinvesting in awareness and tourism efforts allows us to tell the Southtowns story in a more impactful way,” said Matt Heidt, Executive Director. “These campaigns and renewed focus on our members will help showcase the incredible businesses and communities we are proud to represent.”
2026 Marquee Events
Hamburg Farmers’ Market Returns for Its 49th Year
Opening May 2, 2026, the Hamburg Farmers’ Market will operate every Saturday through October (closed on July 4th). The 49th season will feature an expanded slate of promotional dates, to be announced in the coming weeks.
Meat Raffle to Benefit Local School Districts – March 27, 2026
A community-centered fundraiser supporting partner high schools and student initiatives.
Gala for the Southtowns — May 2026 (specific date TBA)
A new annual banquet honoring exceptional businesses, nonprofit organizations, educators, and students. The event theme, celebrating the businesses of today and the leaders of tomorrow, underscores the Chamber’s commitment to advancing local workforce and community development.
Award categories include: SRCC Scholarship Award (one per district), Community Service Student Award (one per district), Educator of the Year, Community Impact Award – Business, Non-Profit of the Year, and Business of the Year.
Public nominations and voting will be incorporated for community-facing categories, with final selection informed by criteria set by the Chamber’s NextGen Committee.
Member Appreciation Day — September 2026 (specific date TBA)
A Chamber-wide celebration and cookout to recognize and thank members for their continued partnership.
Holiday Bash — December 2026 (specific date TBA)
The Chamber’s annual fundraiser returns to support workforce development programming and the SRCC Scholarship Fund.
Welcome new Board Leadership
The Chamber also welcomes its 2026 Executive Committee, whose leadership will help guide the organization’s strategic direction in the year ahead. The committee includes Sean Doyle (Chair) of Hamburg Development Companies; Eric Adams (Past Chair) of Picture Your Walls; Sallie Herberger (Secretary) of The Growth Coach of WNY; and Fran Vaughan (Treasurer) of FMV Tax Professionals. The Chamber extends its sincere gratitude to Eric Adams for his continued service and leadership as he transitions into the Past Chair role, and looks forward to building on the strong foundation established under his guidance.
About the Southtowns Regional Chamber of Commerce
The Southtowns Regional Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering businesses, strengthening community connections, and advancing economic vitality throughout the Southtowns of Western New York.
Learn more at SouthtownsRegionalChamber.org.
Participating Vendors Include
Participating Vendors Include – Updated 07/26/24
