It’s time for THE BRIGHT SPOT - our good news report for the region.
These are some of the amazing accomplishments our Members have celebrated recently:
• Eversource was named among America’s Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek and Statista Inc. This national award celebrates U.S. companies that demonstrate leadership in ethical business practices.
• American International College (AIC) raised more than $228,000 during the college’s annual Giving Day campaign to support scholarships, academic programs, athletics, and campus initiatives.
• Holyoke Community College (HCC) Transfer Affairs Coordinator, Mark Broadbent, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the New England Transfer Association
• Monson Savings Bank celebrated local nonprofits at their recent Community Giving Initiative Reception where bank leadership was able to honor organizations chosen by the community. • Tech Foundry received a donation of 30 laptops to its Tech Hub programs through the Connected and Online Program. • Westfield Bank donated $150,000 to the YMCA of Greater Westfield for Camp Shepard which for more than 75 years has served thousands of children. This donation will benefit the construction of a new welcome center, pavilion, and bathhouse. We also thought these three additional items are worth celebrating:
• The MassHire Holyoke Career Center celebrates 30 years of workforce impact. For three decades they’ve served as a critical connector between job seekers and employers, helping thousands of individuals access meaningful employment while supporting local businesses with talent, training, and workforce solutions.
• Businesses across Massachusetts are expanding workforce development efforts through the Registered Apprentice Tax Credit program, which provides employers with up to $4,800 per qualified apprentice.
• 128 local farmers received more than $270,000 in grants through The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation (HGCF). With this year’s awards, the program’s total investment in local agriculture surpasses $2 million.
Congratulations to all helping move Western Massachusetts forward through leadership, investment, innovation, and community impact.
We’d like to thank EDC Member, Western Mass News, and Dave Madsen for inviting your EDC President and CEO, Aaron Vega to recently joined him for an episode of “Getting Answers” to discuss the region’s economic momentum and priorities.
The conversation highlighted Western Massachusetts’ continued focus on workforce development, industry growth, and building a strong, competitive regional economy. From emerging sectors to talent pipeline strategies, the discussion reinforced the importance of alignment across business, education, and public partners. If you’d like to view the episode, please see our article there, the link is in our bio.
This is the work in action. Clear priorities, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to moving the region forward.
During Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4 through May 8, we recognize the impact of educators across Western Massachusetts and the critical role they play in shaping the region’s future workforce.
The Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Awards will honor 90 local educators whose dedication, innovation, and commitment continue to strengthen our classrooms and our communities.
This recognition reflects more than individual achievement. It highlights the importance of education as a foundation for economic growth, talent development, and long term regional success.
We extend our appreciation to the educators who are preparing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and contributors across Western Massachusetts.
ICYMI: Your EDC is proud to have recently gathered Western Massachusetts leaders, including Senator @barryfinegoldma , for a strategic conversation focused on advancing the region’s economic future.
The discussion brought together a strong cross section of leadership from across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, reinforcing a shared commitment to growth, innovation, and long term competitiveness.
Conversations centered on key priority sectors including the Food Economy and advanced manufacturing, along with the continued momentum of Western Massachusetts as a designated MA TechHub. Workforce development remained a central focus, with regional partners highlighting scalable models that are already aligning talent pipelines with industry demand and expanding access to opportunity.
Senator Finegold shared, “I am grateful to the EDC for hosting an informative roundtable discussion. I heard a lot about the region's economic opportunities and challenges from experts with varied expertise. Those perspectives are important because Western Mass is essential to the Commonwealth's vibrant future.”
From higher education to industry to workforce leaders, the meeting reflected a clear message. Western Massachusetts is aligned, collaborative, and ready to execute on a shared economic strategy.
If you have LinkedIn and would like to read more, please see our article there, the link is in our bio.
The EDC is proud of our member, Baystate Health, as the organization continues to demonstrate leadership on a global scale through a remarkable medical milestone.
A Baystate Health gastroenterologist recently completed the first ever training in ERCP in Ghana, equipping local physicians with advanced, minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat complex conditions. Prior to this effort, patients often faced far more invasive surgical options, making this training a significant step forward in patient care.
Beyond the immediate impact, this work creates lasting change by building local expertise and expanding access to safer, more effective treatment options. It is a powerful example of how innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to care can extend well beyond our region and improve lives around the world.
To learn more about this story, see link in our bio.
MEET AN EDC MEMBER
This month we’re proud to recognize @country_bank for their continued investment in Western Massachusetts and their recent expansion into the heart of Springfield.
With the opening of their new branch in Tower Square, Country Bank brings a strong community banking presence to a key downtown location. This new space reflects their commitment to accessibility, relationship building, and supporting the financial needs of individuals, families, and businesses across the region.
Country Bank has long focused on creating meaningful local impact and their expansion in Springfield’s downtown represents that commitment and more. It reinforces their dedication to being a trusted partner in economic development and a resource for the communities they serve.
We are grateful to have Country Bank as part of the EDC network and appreciate their ongoing contributions to the strength and vitality of Western Massachusetts.
Thank you to Mayor Sarno for attending the ribbon cutting.
Thank you to Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts for leading two impactful initiatives next week that are both helping shape the future of our workforce.
The EnTEENpreneur Challenge coming up on April 28th continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs by giving students the opportunity to develop ideas, build business skills, and bring their concepts to life.
While at the same time, Western Mass Construction and Trades Career Day on April 30th will open doors for more than 700 students to explore hands on career pathways in construction, trades, and manufacturing. We also recognize the strong collaboration behind Construction and Trades Career Day, presented in partnership with MassHire Franklin Hampshire, MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board, and MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board.
At the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, we believe the long term economic success of our region depends on the strength of our future workforce. Efforts like these play an important role in developing talent across both entrepreneurship and the skilled trades, ensuring a strong and sustainable pipeline for years to come.
THE BRIGHT SPOT - our good news report for the region!
The following EDC Members have good news to share:
Big Y has been recognized among the greatest workplaces for culture, belonging, and community, reinforcing its commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for employees. The award was presented by Newsweek in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group.
Baystate Health has earned national recognition from Healthgrades, the #1 site Americans use to find a doctor or hospital, for patient safety excellence, highlighting its ongoing dedication to delivering high quality care across the region.
BankESB donated $10,000 to the Easthampton Fire Department, supporting first responders and strengthening community safety efforts.
American International College (AIC) announced a landmark partnership with Western Mass Youth Sports to host athletics programming, expanding opportunities for youth engagement and development.
Westfield Bank contributed $10,000 to Rachel’s Table Outrun Hunger 5K, supporting efforts to combat food insecurity and support local families.
From workforce culture to healthcare excellence to community investment, these stories reflect the continued momentum and impact happening across Western Massachusetts. If you have an economic bright spot, please share with us by emailing Xiomara DeLobato, Vice President at [email protected].
SPOTLIGHT ON OUR EDC AFFILIATES!
Two upcoming EDC Affiliate events are bringing energy, engagement, and opportunity to our region.
The East of the River Chamber (ERC5 ) will host the annual Feast in the East on April 28th. This signature event brings together some of the best food, beverage, and hospitality experiences the Pioneer Valley has to offer for an evening of connection and community. Tickets are still available. Search “erc5 feast in the east” to get yours.
The Springfield Business Improvement District (SBID) is excited to invite you to raise a glass at Worthy BrewFest 2026 – Downtown Springfield’s signature craft beer experience. This year the signature downtown experience will be reimagined at The Landing at the MassMutual Center while continuing to bring together local breweries, businesses, and the community. Search “Worthy BrewFest” for more including pre-sale tickets.
Events like these highlight the strength of our affiliates and the role they play in driving economic activity, supporting local businesses, and creating meaningful experiences across Western Massachusetts.
The Western Mass Arts Advocacy Coalition is helping elevate the voice of the creative economy at the state level. Recently, during Creative Sector Advocacy Day at the Massachusetts State House, coalition leaders presented a comprehensive report outlining key priorities, challenges, and opportunities identified across the region.
The report reflects input from a broad cross section of stakeholders and highlights critical areas such as workforce development, infrastructure, and financial sustainability within the arts sector. It also reinforces the importance of continued collaboration between policymakers, business leaders, and cultural organizations to advance meaningful solutions.
With strong engagement from legislators and commitments to ongoing dialogue, this effort represents an important step in strengthening the visibility and long term impact of the arts as a driver of economic vitality across Western Massachusetts.
ICYMI – last week over 1,500 people attended the annual Women’s Leadership Conference hosted by EDC Member, Bay Path University. The EDC is extremely grateful to the Bay Path team for their continued commitment to this massive undertaking. In addition, we’d like to extend our gratitude to the EDC Members who sponsor the event including @baystate_health , BusinessWest, @health_new_england , Liberty Bank, @massmutual , @mgmspringfield , @bankatpeoples , and @springfieldrepublican .
Lastly, a heartfelt thanks to MassMutal for also providing the opportunity for 300 of their employees to attend; further emphasizing the company’s commitment to employee growth.
Momentum continues to build for East-West Rail, with a recent update shared at Springfield’s Union Station by Congressman Richard Neal and MassDOT. The project remains a key priority for strengthening connections between Western and Eastern Massachusetts and supporting long term economic growth.
During the event, Congressman Neal announced an additional $1.2 million in funding to support the next phase of the project. According to MassDOT, the funding will advance planning and design for Positive Train Control, a federally required safety system that will allow for expanded rail service north of Springfield.
This investment represents another step forward in enhancing regional mobility, increasing service capacity, and reinforcing Springfield’s role as a central hub in a more connected statewide rail network.
Thank you to State Representative @masscarlosgonzalez for capturing this photo.
