History
About the Central CT Chambers of Commerce
The Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce is a regional business organization that serves as a hub for economic growth, business advocacy, and community engagement across central Connecticut. Representing 1,700 businesses across Bristol, Burlington, Farmington, Plainville, Plymouth, Thomaston, and Wolcott. We represent a broad network of small, mid-sized, and large employers, working to strengthen the local economy and support our members through a variety of programs and services.
At our core, the Chamber focuses on advocacy, acting as a voice for businesses at the local and state levels - often collaborating with groups like the Connecticut Business & Industry Association to influence public policy on issues such as affordability, workforce development, and regulatory efficiency.
The Chamber also prioritizes business development and connection, offering networking events, referral opportunities, and marketing exposure to help members grow. This includes programs like leads groups, business after-hours events, and promotional platforms that increase visibility within the region.
Another key component is workforce and leadership development. The Chamber has a workforce development training program under its umbrella, called BristolWORKS! Additionally, we support initiatives such as leadership programs designed to build talent pipelines and prepare future business leaders.
The Chamber plays a strong role in community building, hosting events, ribbon cuttings, and partnerships that enhance quality of life and foster regional collaboration among businesses, municipalities, and nonprofits.
Overall, the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce is a connector, advocate, and resource, helping businesses succeed while contributing to a vibrant and sustainable regional economy.
Over A Century Strong
The Bristol Board of Trade was founded in 1889 to promote the interest of Bristol, to aid in the protection and development of all legitimate enterprises, to unite the energies and influence of all citizens in matters of public welfare, and to secure uniformity of opinion and action, and cooperation among its members to this end.
The Bristol Board of Trade eventually became the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, which was incorporated in December of 1915, and throughout its history has been the local business organization supporting regional vitality and community prosperity.
The Chamber has expanded its regional footprint over the years. In 2003, the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce was formed in an effort to expand the area it benefited and to enable the Chamber to assist more members. This allowed the Chamber to expand from covering just Bristol to the entire Central Connecticut region.
The Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce represents the Chambers and communities of Bristol, Burlington, Farmington, Plainville, Plymouth/Terryville, Thomaston and Wolcott.