2023
RESOURCE GUIDE
Empowering business to succeed, while enriching the community.
Outgoing Message from
Matt Genzale, MRG Construction 2022 Chairman If someone had told me 5 years ago, that I would one day serve as chairman of the board, I probably would have laughed. Back then I lived and worked in Peabody, but that was about the extent of my city involvement. Then someone told me I should join the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce. I did and boy did it change everything. Once I became a member, I met incredible people. People who were changing lives for others in our community, business professionals that helped my business grow, people who became some of my best friends. Because of the chamber, I've been able to be a part of several community projects, bid on local projects and develop as a leader. This past year serving as chairman, my goals were simple; to build membership in all categories of business both small and large, encourage more member activity in the Chamber and be an advocate for your business. We are keenly aware of the challenges many businesses continue to face in this economy and worked to provide opportunities to for training, workforce development and assistance along with traditional chamber activities. Through our Board of Directors and Government Advocacy Committee, the Peabody Area Chamber continues to forge key relationships with elected officials and leaders of government agencies, making it an advocate for the business community.
2022 Impact Summary 30 Day Website Challenge: Opened to all businesses at no cost, the challenge provided a daily tip to improve website content, navigation, SEO and more. Legislative Breakfast to discuss local business climate and highlight what's on the horizon for the coming year. Pride in Peabody seasonal flower basket and holiday wreath programs to beautify downtown and promote our members. Awarded $8,0000 in high school scholarships with proceeds from the annual Torigian Golf Classic Summer Shindig at Smith Barn at Brooksby Farm with over 200 people in attendance. Implemented a MOTT Tourism Grant in conjunction with the City and Peabody Main Streets to promote Peabody as a destination and attract customers from within 60 miles.
Health & Wellness Expo in July Multiple opportunities to connect, learn and grow your referral base through monthly coffees, luncheons, networking mixers, and seminars brought out a lot of community members. Ribbon cuttings for 17 new businesses/new members Website Stats: Member page view: 160,931 hits Business Directory: 17,156 hits Event Calendar: 18,149 hits Social Media: Facebook reach 41,865 (13% inc) Facebook followers 2.9K Instagram reach 4,859 (400% inc) Instagram followers 1.2K
Message from the chairman
Dave Olson,Wayside Transportation Co.
2023 LEADERSHIP Executive Board David Olson, Chairman Wayside Transportation Taylor Lee, 1st Vice Chair Eastern Bank Wendy Joly, 2nd Vice Chair Rousselot Rachel Retos, Treasurer Johnson O'Connor Feron & Carucci, LLP Mary Bellavance, Secretary Gravoc
I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce for 2023. I have been involved with the PACC for many years, serving on the Government Relations Committee and as an officer of the Board of Directors. During this time, I have been overwhelmingly impressed with the scope of work the Chamber accomplishes on behalf of all members and the awareness the PACC creates on issues important to the business community. Just look through this booklet and you will get a sense of the businesses involved in the PACC. Having recently completed a Strategic Plan, I look forward to many exciting changes in the coming year to strengthen your business and the communities we serve.
Strategic Plan for 2023 Hire a CEO and Membership Director Provide board training & governance Ensure equal access & representation Establish a 'chamber university' to provide education and training to help business owners Survey members to understand needs Formalize an advocacy agenda Establish 'roundtables' based on business location to better address/segment member needs Improve communication and outreach to business community Review annual events for relevancy and impact.
Your feedback and input is critical. Be sure to take the member survey - see link on page 5
Matt Genzale, Past Chairman MRG Construction Management
Board of Directors Joan Bunaskavich Salem Five Bank Vicki Cormier North Shore Bank Kyle Delegge International Protective Services Denise DeSimone In The Game Lynn Feazel Aflac/Feazel Benefits Brad Gosselin Bridgewell Corey Jackson Sarah J. Consulting Rob Lowell YMCA of Metro North Laura Meisenhelter North Shore Community Action Programs Paul McGinnity Barber Shoppe off the Square Cindy Moore Barry Realty Group Chris Ross Institution for Savings Chris Ryder City of Peabody Dan Sencabaugh Hurwitz, Richard & Sencabaugh LLP Caroline Trujillo Citizens Inn Brian Vinagro PeabodyWealth Advisors Laurene Wessel Community Credit Union
Governmnent Relations & Advocacy You already know that a chamber of commerce is the face of the business community - we are here to look out for all of the things that can deter or detract your business from being successful, such as anti-business legislation, cumbersome regulations, even a sluggish economy. As a resource for business owners and professionals, our goal is connect, enrich and develop YOUR business through dynamic events, committees and round tables, educational seminars as well as marketing opportunities. As a member of the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce, we are here to help you start, run and grow your business on the North Shore. The Chamber’s Government Advocacy Committee encourages elected officials to work with the business community to bolster the local economy and improve competitiveness. We encourage cooperation and partnerships among government, education, business and civic groups. The issues addressed by the Government Advocacy Committee are those that: Involve or pertain to the business community as a whole Impact more than a substantial portion of the Chamber membership Influence the overall economic development of the area Impact an entire business sector such as manufacturing, services or tourism/retail Impact the entire business climate Public positions and support statements will be given when the issues meet the above guidelines. For those issues that don't meet the above guidelines, we offer assistance by providing appropriate networking contacts with other stakeholder organizations, government agencies, representatives or community leaders.
What's important to you?
Take the Member Survey
Business Grants & Training MGCC Digital Empowerment Grant
This grant program provides up to $5,000 in funding for small businesses seeking tools and services to develop or enhance their digital capabilities. Preference is given to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, however, additional consideration will be given to businesses owned by women, minorities, immigrants, non-native English speakers, U.S. Military Veterans, disabled individuals, LGBTQ+, low-tomoderate income owners, socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and businesses operating in Gateway Cities. The Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce is a designated Small Business Technical Advisor for this program and will sponsor and support the effort of the small business applicants through technical assistance in the application process.
Workforce Training Grant The Workforce Training Fund Program (WTFP) provides resources to train employees and help optimize productivity and competitiveness. The Express Fund Program under WTFP pays 100% of training costs for organizations with up to 100 employees and 50% for those over 100 employees. The General Grant Program under WTFP pays up to 100% of training costs for organizations of every size. Employees to be trained must receive a W-2 and contribute to Massachusetts payroll taxes. Organizations must be in good standing and current on all payments to the Commonwealth. The Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce has secured the services of GROWTHco, a registered training provider with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. GROWTHco will work with interested organizations through the entire grant application and administration process and they have a 100% approval rate! A list of training offerings that have been pre-approved will be announced in early 2023. If you have any questions, please email director@peabodychamber.com
Financial Incentives from the City of Peabody Facade & Signage Improvement Program The City of Peabody through the Community Development Authority (CDA) and the Department of Community Development have established a Façade & Signage Improvement Program to provide loans up to $10,000 to property owners and/or business tenants seeking to renovate or restore their exterior signage, lighting or commercial building façades. This may include the restoration of architectural details, better windows and doors and well proportioned signage, awnings and lighting.
Community Development Authority (CDA) Business Loan Program The Business Loan Program is a flexible source of loan funds for commercial and industrial projects, the purpose of which is to encourage the creation/retention of quality jobs and to increase the tax base. The CDA is able to provide below-market, low-interest loans to be used to help bridge the gap between the cash and assets of a business owner and the equity requirements needed to obtain a commercial loan from a bank. Small Business Loan Program The Small Business Loan Program provides low interest loans up to $50,000 to purchase equipment, build out, etc. For more information visit: https://www.peabody-ma.gov/community%20development.html#!#tab1-3
Workforce Resources In today's environment, businesses need to think outside the box when looking to fill open positions. Providing job training and opportunities can promote an inclusive work environment, help build a future workforce and convey a strong sense of community.
PVMHS Student Program
Chris Lord at clord@peabody.k12.ma.us Depending on the type of assistance you need or commitment, there are 3 ways to "employ" a local high school student: Intern: Students are required to perform 40-50 hours of community service as a minimum graduation requirement. This help is good for help with events or an occasional need for assistance. Internship: Students can perform a paid or unpaid internship that would look good on their college application. This help is good for ongoing projects that require several hours a week or for a specific period of time. Work Program: Students can be scheduled for early release as early as 12:30p during the week. Students must be paid and submit paystubs to school to earn credit toward graduation. Some students have specialty training in cosmetology, culinary arts, medical, criminal justice, etc. Schedules/hours to be mutually agreed upon.
Northeast Arc /Supported Employment Partners Your business has a need that has to be filled; Northeast Arc identifies someone who is the perfect candidate for the job. Our job coaches will match an individual to the role and responsibilities of the position, help them in getting to work, and assist in training. The Job Coach will provide as little or as much support as necessary, depending on the needs of the individual and the complexities of the job. For Northeast Arc, it is important that the individuals learn in the way that works best for them, that they master their work skills and gain confidence, and that they maintain their position for the long-term. Learn more at: https://nearc.org/services/community-employment/job-placement
Bridgewell Employment Support Bridgewell has successfully been providing vocational opportunities for people with disabilities through Bridgewell’s Employment Supports program, our Career Specialists help manage relationships with local businesses for on and off-site work, both for individuals seeking employment as well as group employment opportunities. Bridgewell works with local businesses and provide tools and the support needed to help individuals gain and stay employed. Both the business and employee benefit from this partnership. For more information: https://bridgewell.org/disability-services/employment-support-services/
Residential & Commercial
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION
LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE
SNOW MANAGEMENT
Whether it’s a retaining wall, a patio, walkway, driveway, a firepit, or raised planter residential and commercial customers turn to DeMatos Landscaping to construct custom outdoor living spaces that are built to last.
We specialize in landscape design, both on a large and small scale, ranging from irrigation systems to diverse planting solutions. We also provide spring clean ups lawn care and pruning services.
DeMatos Landscaping offers several different snow removal packages for the harsh New England winter. Because we service only commercial accounts, we employ an experienced staff operating a range of up-to-date equipment.
GET A FREE ESTIMATE
(978) 532-7570 www.dematoslandscaping.com
Workforce Resources, cont. Mass Hire Apprentice Program Registered apprenticeship programs can be run directly by employers or through sponsor organizations, such as unions, employer associations, or communitybased intermediaries. Apprenticeships run the gamut from traditional jobs such as carpenters, electricians, and public safety officials to new technologyfocused occupations including those in cloud computing, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. The Registered Apprentice Tax Credit (RATC) promotes expansion of registered apprenticeship into healthcare, tech, and manufacturing sectors in Massachusetts. Employers in these sectors may be eligible for up to a $4,800 credit per qualified apprentice. Learn more at https://www.mass.gov/information-for-employers-and-sponsors
Mass HireReentry Reemployment Program This unit provides employers with motivated job candidates who were formerly incarcerated and are ready to be productive citizens. Employers have access to a pool of screened and joob-ready candidates to interview and hire. Learn more at https://www.mass.gov/service-details/reentry-reemployment-unitstaff-resources Business is insured up to $5,000 against any potential theft or loss of money resulting from hiring an ex-offender. Business is also eligible for a Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit A Federal tax credit incentive that employers may receive for hiring individuals from certain target groups who have consistently faced significant barriers to employment. The main objective of this program is to enable the targeted employees to gradually move from economic dependency into self-sufficiency as they earn a steady income and become contributing taxpayers, while participating employers are compensated by being able to reduce their federal income tax liability. Employers make the hiring decision, and there is no limit to the number of new hires who can qualify the employer for the tax savings, but individuals must be identified as members of one of these targeted groups before a job offer is made. For a list of the targeted groups, go to www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/work-opportunity-tax-credit.
Business Resources Small Business Season Marketing Program
Be part of a Global Chamber of Commerce marketing campaign - at no cost. Small businesses need more than one day focused on them. They need an entire season! That’s why we are encouraging chambers of commerce, neighbors, business owners, and community leaders to support the call to action to "Shop Small this Small Business Season". The 'season' runs 10/31-12/31 but the materials can be used all year long, too. Free images, articles, checklists, calendar, hand-outs, and more are ready made and available to use. Email director@peabodychamber.com for details.
Small Business Development Center
The Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network is committed to helping your business succeed. Get free, confidential, one-to-one business assistance and free or low-cost educational training programs to prospective and existing small businesses. Areas of assistance include, but are not limited to: business plan development, preventure feasibility, buying or selling a business, cash flow analysis, personnel and organizational issues, conventional and non-conventional financing, and marketing. Learn more at https://www.salemstate.edu.sbdc
Enterprise Center at Salem State University
The Enterprise Center is an entrepreneurial hub that offers business owners office space, education, and access and connections to small business resources. They offer CEO groups, business plan competition, workshops and speaker opportunities among many other resources. Learn more at https://enterprisectr.org
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps small businesses get funding by setting guidelines for loans and reducing lender risk. These SBA-backed loans make it easier for small businesses to get the funding they need.Competitive terms: SBA-guaranteed loans generally have rates and fees that are comparable to non-guaranteed loans. Competitive terms: SBA-guaranteed loans generally have rates and fees that are comparable to non-guaranteed loans. Counseling and education: Some loans come with continued support to help you start and run your business. Unique benefits: Lower down payments, flexible overhead requirements, and no collateral needed for some loans. Get $500 to $5.5 million to fund your business Loans guaranteed by SBA range from small to large and can be used for most business purposes, including long-term fixed assets and operating capital. The SBA partners with lenders to help increase small business access to loans. The Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce has a number of SBA certified lenders as members. Email us at director@peabodychamber.com and we can help match you with a local lender who understands the best SBA loan for your business needs.
Thank you to the following members who have chosen a higher level of investment in the PACC and a commitment to the business community.
Diamond Members
Investor Members ABA Centers of America Boston Marriott Peabody Century House Restaurant Comcast Business DeMatos Landscaping Dermatology & Skin Health Eastern Bank Eastern Propane Enterprise Center @ SSU
Golf Lounge 18 In The Game JJR Enterprise, Inc. Johnson OConnor Feron & Carucci Lahey Medical Center Lyon-Waugh Auto Group MCH Security & Protective Services MRG Construction Management North Shore Bank
PGA Superstore Phil Richard Insurance Pilgrim Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Center Rousselot RC Mason Movers Rockland Trust Sylvan Street Grille TD Bank Winchester Interconnect
Annual Chamber Events A snapshot of traditional annual events hosted by the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce to meet your business needs, offer a chance to connect with likeminded business people, and sometimes, just to have a little fun! As details are finalized, the full Calendar of Events can be viewed online at www.peabodychamber.com. Events provide not only the ability to participate, but sponsorship, advertising, etc. to help position and elevate your business. Lattes with Legislators Torigian Golf Tournament INCredible Business Awards Ceremony* Annual Dinner Health & Wellness Expo Summer Shindig* ChamberforGood Non Profit Expo* Young Entrepreneurs Program* Monthly Coffee Connections* Speed Networking via Blitzer Business After Hours* Holiday Member Reception *New or improved formats for 2023 are in the works. Please check wwww.peabodychamber.com/events for details.
Member Milestones 90 Years
30 Years
Evans Flowers Rousselot
Wayside Transportation Torigian Family YMCA Kappy's Fine Wine & Spirits
50 Years Land & Sea Restaurant
35 Years Eastern Bank Gauthier & Company,CPA's Home Decor Group Salem Five Bank
20 Years Autobahn Performance Community Credit Union Dinis Electric, Inc. Lyon-Waugh Auto Group Peabody Wealth Advisors Springhill Suites Boston
15 Years AgeSpan Land Computer Phil Richard Insurance Rockland Trust TD Bank
10 Years Crown Trophy Doroci Electrical Services
5 Years
Business Copy Associates * Capital One Cafe * Garage Print Studio HearingLife * Laer Realty Partners/Marie Bishop * SERVPRO of Salem/Peabody
Your dedication to our organization is helping lead us to success!
Member Benefits
Membership includes you in one of the area's most active business networks and brings opportunities to develop strategic relationships. The Peabody Area Chamber offers many affordable and highly targeted advertising options that will provide your business with a measurable return on your investment. Maximize your company’s exposure and reach new customers through the following advertising opportunities such as: Website Banner Advertising - Gain exposure by advertising on the section of the Chamber website where members are frequently directed to from Chamber print ads and emails. (fee may apply depending on membership level) Member News - Promote your new products, services, new hires, awards etc. through our online newsroom. E-coupons - Link your special offer to your Online Business Directory listing. Events Calendar - Whether it's business-to-business or business-to-consumer, your event can be posted on our Business or Community calendar. Job Postings -Find your next employee by posting your openings on our website. Email Blast - with over 800 subscribers and a higher than average open rate, our fully customized email blasts will communicate your message to fellow members, residents, local dignitaries and more!
Member Directory