Small Business Coalition - 1 Million Cups

1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Wilmington, NC is one of many chapters across the United States. Join us as startups, an......More

1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Wilmington, NC is one of many chapters across the United States. Join us as startups, and small businesses present for 6 minutes about their company, followed by 20 minutes of Q&A. 1MC Wilmington meets every Wednesday, 9AM, at the University for North Carolina Wilmington Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

UNCW CIE: 803 College Rd G, Wilmington, NC 28403

2026 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Proximity Watermark

Please join the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the grand opening of Bell Partners’ newest community, Proximity Watermark! This ribbon cutting marks the launch of a distinctive waterfront residential experience in Wilmington, offering modern c......More

Please join the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the grand opening of Bell Partners’ newest community, Proximity Watermark! This ribbon cutting marks the launch of a distinctive waterfront residential experience in Wilmington, offering modern coastal living with thoughtfully designed apartment homes, resort-style amenities, and scenic water views. Come network with fellow Chamber members, meet the team behind this exciting new development, and help us officially welcome Proximity Watermark to our business community. We look forward to celebrating with you!

4362 Watermark Drive Wilmington, NC 28412

2026 - Unleashing Passion, Purpose and Performance in Younger Generations ft. Mark Perna

Unleashing Passion, Purpose and Performance in the Next Generation Friday, May 1 | 9:00 – 10:30 am CFCC Union Station – U170 Auditorium   Who Should Attend: Educators, employers, parents, workforce leaders and community stakeholders   Today’s younger generations......More

Unleashing Passion, Purpose and Performance in the Next Generation Friday, May 1 | 9:00 – 10:30 am CFCC Union Station – U170 Auditorium   Who Should Attend: Educators, employers, parents, workforce leaders and community stakeholders   Today’s younger generations are full of potential but connecting with, motivating and retaining them requires a new approach.   Join us for an engaging and practical session with Mark, who will share proven strategies to help you better understand how young people think, what drives their decisions and how to inspire their best work in the classroom, the workplace and at home.   As the skills gap continues to grow, it is more important than ever to equip the next generation with purpose, direction and opportunity. This program will challenge common misconceptions and offer a fresh perspective on how to unlock the creativity, talent and ambition of young people.   You’ll walk away with: ·      Practical tools to better engage and motivate younger generations ·      Insights into what drives purpose and performance ·      Strategies you can immediately apply in your organization or at home   Whether you are shaping the future workforce, leading a team or supporting a young person’s journey, this session will leave you energized and equipped to make a greater impact.   Come ready to be inspired and leave ready to take action. Tickets Chamber Member: $35 Non-Member: $45 If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Laura Brogdon-Primavera at [email protected].

CFCC Union Station U170 Auditorium

36th Annual River to Sea Bike Ride

The 36th Annual River To Sea Bike Ride is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026! This event is a 20-mile bike ride along the historic route of the Wilmington Beach Car Line. All age groups and experience levels of cyclists participate in this ride but must be able to ......More

The 36th Annual River To Sea Bike Ride is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026! This event is a 20-mile bike ride along the historic route of the Wilmington Beach Car Line. All age groups and experience levels of cyclists participate in this ride but must be able to ride 20 miles at a casual pace. Helmets are required and cyclists should give their bicycle a thorough safety inspection prior to the event. The WMPO is seeking sponsors to support the 36th Annual River to Sea Bike Ride. If your business or organization would like to contribute a donation to support the ride, please see our sponsorships page for more information.

Route starts at Front and Market Streets

2026 - Wake Up Wilmington - Sponsored by TownePlace Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

Wake Up Wilmington is a relaxed, yet dynamic monthly referral networking breakfast hosted by the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce.   This event allows our members to connect authentically by introducing yourself, sharing what sets your business apart, and articulating a......More

Wake Up Wilmington is a relaxed, yet dynamic monthly referral networking breakfast hosted by the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce.   This event allows our members to connect authentically by introducing yourself, sharing what sets your business apart, and articulating any immediate needs. Guests will hear from a new sponsor each month. Chamber staff will also spotlight the latest chamber and community happenings. You'll walk away not just with ideas, but with leads, new relationships, and a fresh sense of momentum.     Schedule: Held on the first Tuesday of every month, avoiding holidays   Time: 8:00 AM to 9:15 AM (Eastern Time).   Location: Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, 1 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington, NC 28401   Cost to Attend & Eligibility: Complimentary for members; intended exclusively for Wilmington Chamber members   Cost to Sponsor: $300 per event, max of two per year   Parking: On-site Chamber parking lot available. Convention Center parking deck also an option.   What to Bring: Business cards (and a welcoming attitude!). Come prepared to introduce your business and ask for or offer leads.   RSVP / Contact: Registration is required.   For questions or more information, contact Kristin Peoples at [email protected].

Wilmington Chamber of Commerce 1 Estell Lee Place Wilmington, NC 28401

Small Business Coalition - 1 Million Cups

1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Wilmington, NC is one of many chapters across the United States. Join us as startups, an......More

1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Wilmington, NC is one of many chapters across the United States. Join us as startups, and small businesses present for 6 minutes about their company, followed by 20 minutes of Q&A. 1MC Wilmington meets every Wednesday, 9AM, at the University for North Carolina Wilmington Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

UNCW CIE: 803 College Rd G, Wilmington, NC 28403

2026 - Wilmington Chamber Advocacy Day in Raleigh

Wilmington Chamber Advocacy Day in Raleigh May 6, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM   Join the Greater Wilmington Chamber for a full day of advocacy, access, and engagement with state leaders in Raleigh.   This experience is designed to connect our business community dire......More

Wilmington Chamber Advocacy Day in Raleigh May 6, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM   Join the Greater Wilmington Chamber for a full day of advocacy, access, and engagement with state leaders in Raleigh.   This experience is designed to connect our business community directly with members of the North Carolina General Assembly, provide insight into key policy issues, and strengthen Wilmington’s voice at the state level.   The day includes small group legislative meetings with our local delegation, a hosted lunch with a guest speaker, and participation in the NC Chamber’s Government Affairs Reception. This reception-style event brings together legislative leaders, policy experts, and business advocates from across the state.   Cost: Early Bird Rate: $275 per person by April 14 Standard: $325 per person after April 15 Includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and registration for the NC Chamber Government Affairs Reception. Agenda 9:30 AM Departure from the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce 1 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington   11:30 AM Arrival in Raleigh Lunch at a local restaurant with guest speaker (TBD)   1:30 PM Legislative Meetings Meet with Wilmington’s local delegation and key legislative leaders at the NC Legislative Building   3:30 PM NC Chamber Program Begins Registration opens for Legislative Update   4:00 PM Welcome Remarks Jake Cashion, Vice President of Government Affairs, NC Chamber   4:10 PM Political Briefing David Avella, Chairman, GOPAC, Inc. Meghan Hays, Principal, West Shore Strategies National perspectives on the political landscape, elections, and policy implications   4:45 PM – 6:30 PM Networking Reception Connect with legislative leaders, decision-makers, and business peers from across North Carolina   6:30 PM Departure for Wilmington   8:30 PM Estimated arrival in Wilmington  

2026 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for TownePlace Wilmington & Wrightsville Beach

Join the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the official ribbon cutting for TownePlace Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach! Conveniently located near Wrightsville Beach, TownePlace Suites offers spacious, extended-stay accommodations designed fo......More

Join the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the official ribbon cutting for TownePlace Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach! Conveniently located near Wrightsville Beach, TownePlace Suites offers spacious, extended-stay accommodations designed for comfort, flexibility, and modern living, perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully designed suites with full kitchens, comfortable workspaces, and easy access to Wilmington’s vibrant coastal community. Come help us welcome this new addition to our local hospitality landscape, connect with fellow community members, and celebrate continued growth in our region. We look forward to seeing you there!

305 Eastwood Road Wilmington, NC 28405

UNCW CIE: Wilmington Innovation Forum

2026 - Q2 Latin American Business Council Meeting

The vision of the Latin American Business Council is to foster the economic growth and development of the Latin American business community in the Cape Fear Region. We are building a multicultural coalition that celebrates the diversity of the Latino community and build......More

The vision of the Latin American Business Council is to foster the economic growth and development of the Latin American business community in the Cape Fear Region. We are building a multicultural coalition that celebrates the diversity of the Latino community and builds professional leadership through increased access to business and education resources, the establishment of multilingual platforms, and advocacy through public policy.   Latin American Business Council – May Meeting 📅 Date: Tuesday, May 12 🕕 Networking: 6:00 PM 🕡 Program Begins: 6:30 PM 📍 Location: Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce      1 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington, NC Join us for the May Latin American Business Council Meeting, where business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners come together to connect, learn, and grow. This month’s program will feature a dynamic keynote presentation from Elizabeth Irausquin, Programs Director at Prospera, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing bilingual support and consulting to small businesses as they start, sustain, and grow toward long-term success. About the Speaker Elizabeth Irausquin is an experienced business consultant and economic development leader with a global perspective. A native of Venezuela, she immigrated to the United States and launched a family-owned business in Miami before joining Prospera as a client in 2012. She later became a Business Development Consultant and now serves as Programs Director. In her current role, Elizabeth works alongside executive leadership and regional teams to advance Prospera’s entrepreneurship programs, ensuring quality and consistency across markets. Her professional experience spans the U.S., Caribbean, and Europe, including work with organizations such as PwC, IBM, and EPC Limited in Ireland. Her areas of expertise include: Business consulting Human resources Organizational change management IT implementation Elizabeth has also developed and delivered customized training programs on topics such as information technology, government contracting, and import/export strategies. Her work has included managing partnerships and contributing to federal and regional economic development initiatives. With firsthand experience as a small business owner, she is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening local economies. Why Attend Hear from a seasoned economic development expert Gain practical tools to grow and sustain your business Connect with fellow business owners and professionals Learn about resources available to support entrepreneurs Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this session will provide valuable insights and connections to support your journey.  

The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce 1 Estell Lee Place Wilmington, NC 28401

2026 - Washington DC Fly In / Federal Economic Summit

Advocate for Wilmington Businesses at the Federal Level Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Washington Fly-In May 13-14, 2026   Join the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and fellow business leaders for a high-impact two-day fly-in to Washington, D.C., foc......More

Advocate for Wilmington Businesses at the Federal Level Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Washington Fly-In May 13-14, 2026   Join the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and fellow business leaders for a high-impact two-day fly-in to Washington, D.C., focused on the federal policies that directly impact our region’s economy.   From workforce and infrastructure to trade, regulation and economic growth, this program offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers and ensure Wilmington’s business community is represented where it matters most.   Senator Thom Tillis and Congressman Richard Hudson are hosting this year’s Economic Development Summit and have invited leaders from across North Carolina to participate. The May 13-14 program will bring together members of our state’s congressional delegation, federal agency leaders and business leaders for meaningful conversations about the policies shaping our state’s economic future.   The program is expected to begin around noon on May 13 and conclude by noon on May 14, allowing for convenient travel planning.   What to Expect Participants will engage directly with federal leaders and gain valuable insight into the issues driving national policy and their impact on North Carolina businesses.   Throughout the program, you will: ·      Hear from North Carolina’s U.S. House and Senate delegation ·      Gain insight from federal department and agency leaders ·      Participate in discussions on workforce, infrastructure, regulation and economic growth ·      Build relationships with business leaders from Wilmington and across the state who are committed to advocacy   Why It Matters for Wilmington Wilmington’s continued growth depends on strong federal partnerships and smart policy decisions. Issues like port investment, transportation funding, workforce development, housing and coastal resiliency all have federal touchpoints that directly impact our region’s competitiveness and quality of life.   By showing up and engaging in these conversations, we ensure Wilmington’s priorities are heard and our business community remains part of the solution.   About Our Hosts Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) Rep. Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District and serves as chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee. He is a strong advocate for job creation, economic growth and reducing regulatory burdens, and serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, where he supports policies that strengthen American competitiveness and innovation.   Senator Thom Tillis (NC) Sen. Tillis represents North Carolina in the U.S. Senate and serves on the Senate Judiciary, Banking, Finance and Veterans’ Affairs committees. With a background in the private sector, he brings a business-minded perspective to public policy and is known for his work on workforce development, health care innovation and tax reform.   Program Fee: $699 Includes hotel accommodations, meals, and full program access Travel to and from Washington, D.C. is not included Space is limited. Register now to ensure your seat at the table.

Hotel: Hyatt Regency Washington On Capitol Hill 400 New Jersey Ave NW Washington, DC 20001

Small Business Coalition - 1 Million Cups

1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Wilmington, NC is one of many chapters across the United States. Join us as startups, an......More

1MC provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Wilmington, NC is one of many chapters across the United States. Join us as startups, and small businesses present for 6 minutes about their company, followed by 20 minutes of Q&A. 1MC Wilmington meets every Wednesday, 9AM, at the University for North Carolina Wilmington Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

UNCW CIE: 803 College Rd G, Wilmington, NC 28403