Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce has Plans for a Rebound Season! By Mark Berger With the ocean and scenic backdrops, Newport is viewed as a “destination.” Since last year at about this time, the pandemic curtailed would-be activities because of federal and state closure mandates. As 2021 has emerged, the region is resurging from local business leaders and official contributions. One local organization continues as a strong advocate for small businesses. The Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce, located on 513 Broadway, has been leading the forefront in regional businesses remaining vibrant and proactive. That means spending and investing in programs to navigate through these turbulent times. Executive Director Erin Donovan-Boyle has seen these changes firsthand and believes the best is coming soon. “Since the pandemic started, we have been pivoting our organization while serving the whole community, both members and nonmembers, through this economic uncertainty,” said Donovan- Boyle, who has served in numerous professional capacities before taking her current post six years ago. “The area is well rounded with sole proprietorships and main street bu78 Shop In RI
sinesses to larger defense and tech companies and all business stages and sizes in between. Our business community is made up of many primary industry sectors, which makes for a healthy and robust regional economy,” she added. The Chamber works toward Erin Donovan-Boyle making their members’ voices heard through regular advocacy at the municipal, state, and federal levels. They are heavily involved in government relations and economic development initiatives, which has been an important component of the organization’s ability to serve the needs of the community and ensure the demands of the small businesses are met. “Our business leaders have pulled together and partnered in many ways. We understand why the hospitality industry, who have been hardest hit, is so important to the Greater Newport region. They help to provide a quality of life and quality of place that attracts and retains talent for all sectors. We are looking forward to helping to build back up the hospitality industry and further diversify our regional economy to become even more resilient,” Donovan-Boyle said.
