The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce serves as a driving force for business growth and community connection across the shoreline region. Through strategic marketing, signature events, and targeted programming, the Chamber champions local businesses while celebrating the culture and character that make Greater Mystic a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
- What is the Mystic Chamber’s mission and the role you play in the local community?
The mission of the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is simple: we support commerce, culture, and connection in the Greater Mystic community. We elevate southeastern Connecticut — and beyond — by promoting the region, helping local businesses succeed, and igniting community spirit. Our role is to serve as both connector and catalyst. We bring businesses together, advocate for economic vitality, and create signature events that drive tourism and local spending. Through strategic marketing, regional storytelling, partnerships, and community initiatives, we help strengthen the shoreline economy while ensuring Mystic and its neighboring towns remain vibrant places to live, work, and visit.
- Which Chamber programs are you most excited about right now?
The initiatives we’re especially excited about are our digital reach and our targeted member programming. Our social footprint continues to grow, with over 16,000 followers on Instagram and 24,000 on Facebook. This allows us to actively promote member organizations through tagging, resharing, collaborations, and high-visibility content like 5 Things to Do in Mystic. We’re also proud of our Hospitality Lab, created with Brian Connors of Connors Davis Hospitality, and our AI Workshops with Mike Lannen. These focused 2–3 hour sessions respect our members’ time and deliver practical, actionable takeaways they can implement immediately.
- How does the Chamber support small and growing businesses in today’s economic environment?
The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce supports small and growing businesses by combining visibility, connection, and advocacy. We actively promote members through high-impact social media, our bi-weekly business newsletter, the Go Mystic App (17,000+ downloads), and our comprehensive online directory. Signature events drawing 500 to 30,000 attendees create direct exposure and revenue opportunities. Through Business Before/After Hours, ribbon cuttings, educational workshops (including AI and marketing panels), and one-on-one strategy meetings, we help businesses adapt and grow. Our Traveling Visitor Center and regional marketing initiatives further expand reach, ensuring our members stay competitive in today’s evolving economic landscape.
- Can you share a recent success story or example of how the Chamber helped a local business thrive?
After joining the Chamber, Mami’s Cleaning quickly embraced the visibility opportunities available to members. We featured the owner in our *Community Proud* series, included the business in a “5 Things to Do in Mystic” video, and highlighted them in our newsletter throughout the year.
The owner also offered 10% off service coupons for fellow members, which we distributed at events and through our network. In addition, she participated in our Trunk or Treat and Easter Trunk Hop events, where she handed out coupons directly to families.
As a result of her involvement and marketing efforts, she has gained at least 10 new clients through her Chamber membership. Her proactive approach, paired with the Chamber’s promotional support, has created measurable growth for her business.
- What kinds of events or programs do you have coming up that people should put on their calendars?
Join us on February 28 as we celebrate Black History Month, in partnership with the Mystic & Noank Library, Kevin Booker Jr., and Inonda C. Peterson, at the Fifth Annual Black History Month Celebration. This meaningful community event honors the achievements, culture, and lasting contributions of Black leaders, artists, educators, and changemakers. Attendees can look forward to inspiring speakers, powerful storytelling, and engaging programming designed to educate, uplift, and bring our community together.
On March 20, we are co-hosting the State of Mystic with the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut at the Mystic Hilton. The Town Manager of Groton, Mayor of Groton, and First Selectman of Stonington will provide regional updates over breakfast. It is a great opportunity to stay informed and connected.
On April 4, we bring back the Easter Trunk Hop, where local businesses hand out eggs from decorated trunks and families enjoy photos with the Easter Bunny. It’s a fun, community-centered event that connects residents and businesses while supporting our shoreline economy.
