Skip to content

Government Affairs & Policy Advocacy

OUR PRIORITIES

THE MISSION of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce is to create, maintain and promote a vital, thriving business climate throughout the Amherst area and to initiate and support the civic, educational, recreational and economic well-being of the Amherst Area.

Whether you need assistance navigating systems, are seeking a letter of support for a project, or advocating for policy change at the local or state level, you will always have an advocate in the Amherst Area Chamber. Your Chamber staff and Government Affairs & Policy Advocacy Committee are informed, engaged, advocating for economic development, and representing your interests. We are in the room and at the table. The Chamber proposes policy, advises officials and stakeholders at every level, and weighs in on proposed legislation and regulations. We are in your corner, fighting for you.

Seeking advocacy around an issue or a letter of support? Submit an inquiry to info@amherstarea.com or contact Chamber staff directly.

On-Going Strategic Initiatives

Past Projects & Initiatives

Regional Small Business COVID Recovery Grants Program

October 30, 2020

Pioneer Valley Planning Commission has been awarded federal funds through the CARES Act to support local small businesses hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read More

Amherst Small Business COVID Recovery Grants Program

October 30, 2020

The town of Amherst has been awarded federal funds through the CARES Act to support local small businesses hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Valley Community Development Corporation will act as Program Administrator for the application and selection process to award one-time grants up to $10,000 for businesses located in Amherst. Learn More

Read More

2020 Virtual Legislative Breakfast

October 30, 2020

Thank you to Congressman McGovern, Senators Comerford and Lesser, and Representatives Blais, Carey, and Domb for taking the time to share a bit with members of our community. Their words served as wind in their sails of our members to keep fighting the good fight. Their steadfast commitment to our region and strong advocacy for…

Read More

Western Mass Delegation to Speak at Chamber Legislative Breakfast

October 17, 2020

The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Breakfast — Virtual Edition An opportunity to hear directly from the leaders that represent the Amherst area in Congress and on Beacon Hill. Our discussion will focus on government response to the COVID-19 public health crisis and economic recovery as well as our legislator’s vision for economic…

Read More

Chamber 2019 Legislative Breakfast Highlights New Electeds and Brings Region Together

October 27, 2019

In 2019, the Amherst Area had several candidates elected that were serving in their first term. Locally, in Amherst, the inaugural Town Council was finishing up their first year with Lynn Griesemer serving as the first President of the Council. Likewise, in Hadley, Christian Stanley was serving as Select Board Chair in his first year…

Read More

Government Affairs & Policy Advocacy Committee

Kishore Parmar, Pioneer Valley Hotel Group, Chair
Jim Brassord, Amherst College
Alex Laguerra Sierra, Amherst Innovative Living
Hannah Rechtshaffen, The Mill District
Aelan Tierney, Kuhn Riddle Architects
Scroll To Top