One of the most important aspects in promoting economic development, is maintaining an active working relationship with the community’s chamber of commerce. Local chambers serve a very important role in promoting business health and fostering expansion both in the local community, and regionally. The East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce advances and promotes for the businesses of East Providence, Barrington and Seekonk in support of vigorous economic growth and a higher quality of life. The goal of promoting a cooperative atmosphere between the city and the Chamber and its member businesses is paramount to building a relationship that allows for constructive dialogue that supports business expansion while balancing the needs of the community overall. 

As an example of our cooperative partnership, I have met with Chamber members at several of their monthly “Business During Hours” events to discuss the city’s economic development programs and update them on key development projects that are currently underway, or planned for in the near future within our city. These types of events help to promote a positive working environment between the city and the Chamber that aids in creating a better business environment for the community overall.

Laura McNamara, executive director of the East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce works diligently to promote new membership, provide the business community with information on new legislation and identify other issues that directly affect the business community. She also works closely with other chambers of commerce to improve the business environment both in East Providence and the State of Rhode Island. The East Providence Area Chamber serves as the voice of the business community in East Providence and in this role, the Chamber can identify issues that are important to the business community and advocate change that promotes business expansion and Chamber membership in the city.  The city of East Providence enjoys a cooperative partnership with the Chamber and looks forward to working with them to further enhance the city’s image as a good place to do business.

Developers and other parties who are interested in learning more about the economic development activities occurring in East Providence are encouraged to visit the city’s economic development website at www.eastprovidencebusiness.com or the City’s Waterfront District website at www.eastprovidencewaterfront.com.

James Moran is the economic planner for the City of East Providence, R.I.