Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce Events Newswire

Emerging Leaders Fall 2026 10/6/2026 8:30 AM - 10/6/2026 10:30 AM

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:35:08 GMT

Emerging Leaders

Celebrating over a decade of leadership impact, Emerging Leaders, established in 2011, is a dynamic 8-week program designed to expand the capacity of tomorrow’s leaders. Limited to 20 participants each session, this exclusive cohort experience immerses professionals in leadership strategies, emerging local trends, and peer-driven learning in an intimate, high-impact environment.

Through a curated blend of personal evaluation, small-group interactions, and engagement with Raleigh-area executives and business leaders, participants acquire actionable skills, sharpen self-awareness, and broaden their networks. Since its launch, the program has empowered over 400 participants to elevate their leadership and make meaningful community impact.

Schedule:
All classes are held on Tuesday mornings from 8:30 - 10:30 a.m., except the first class which will be held from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.
October 6 - Welcome - Kickoff - Class Coach
October 13 - Matt Chambers, Vice President of Project Development, Clancy & Theys Construction Company
October 20 - Creighton Blackwell, Chief Community and Public Affairs Officer, Coastal Credit Union
October 27 - Don Mial, Chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners
November 3 - Patricia Burch, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Greater Raleigh
November 10 - Rick Guirlinger, Owner and President, Bourke Services, LLC
November 17 - Kristen M. Hess, Founder and CEO, HH Architecture
December 1 - Danny Rosin, Co-Founder, Brand Fuel

Register for the Emerging Leaders Fall 2026 Cohort here.

For questions, email Devin Brown.

New Member Orientation - October 2026 10/7/2026 8:00 AM - 10/7/2026 10:00 AM

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:31:58 GMT

This free event is for new members who have not attended previously.

Registration | 8 - 8:30 a.m.
Program | 8:30 - 10 a.m.

Maximize Your Membership

Welcome to the Chamber! Find out how to get involved and make the most of your membership, and make your first new connections as a Chamber member. You’ll learn about 75+ members as first-time attendees give 30-second overviews about their companies.

Questions?
For questions on content, call 919.664.7090 or email Mimi Miller.
For registration questions, call 919.664.7033 or email Alea Morales.

Join the conversation on social media!
@raleighchamber
#ChamberNMO

The Owner's Table - October 2026 10/13/2026 5:00 PM - 10/13/2026 7:00 PM

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:15:57 GMT

This event is open to owners and founders of small businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees in the Triangle region.

Built for Owners Carrying Real Decisions

Running a small business means constant decisions: when to grow, what to fix, where to invest, who to hire, what to stop doing, and how to keep moving when the path isn't always clear.

The Owner’s Table: A Speed-Strategy Exchange is built for owners and founders who want honest conversation with people who understand that reality firsthand.

This is not a panel.
Not a pitch session.
Not a room where practitioners talk at business owners.

It is a focused, owner-only exchange where small business owners sit with other owners, talk through real challenges, share what they are learning, and leave with ideas they can put to work.

What to Expect

Attendees will rotate through table conversations focused on the issues owners are navigating right now: growth, leadership, AI, profitability, culture, and the day-to-day hurdles that come with building a business.

Each table will be guided by a featured conversation lead, but the real value comes from the owners in the conversation.

Table Topic Sessions

Growth & Business Strategy
Led by Jessie Hathcock, President of The Loading Dock
Talk through growth decisions, business direction, and what it takes to build with focus.

Leadership & Culture
Led by Joanna Roses, Founder/CEO of Joanna Roses Coaching and Communications
Discuss the people side of ownership, from team dynamics and communication to culture and leadership pressure.

Integrating AI
Led by Mohamed Elayouty, Owner of HumaineDev
Explore how owners are approaching AI, where it can help, and how to move forward without getting overwhelmed.

Your Top Three Hurdles
Led by David Baxter, Chief Pixel of Big Pixel
Bring the real issues on your mind and hear how other owners are thinking through similar challenges.

Maximizing Profit
Led by Hamid Lalani, Mercury Signs
Dig into margins, cost pressures, pricing, profitability, and the decisions that affect your bottom line.

Key Takeaways

You will leave with:

* Honest conversation with fellow owners
* Practical ideas around growth, operations, leadership, and profitability
* Fresh perspective from peers facing similar decisions
* Stronger connections with people who understand the weight of ownership
* Clear next steps you can take back into your business

The Bottom Line

No presentations.
No sales pitches.
No fluff.

Just owners, real conversations, and practical insight from people doing the work every day.

Space is limited to keep the conversations focused and useful. Register today to reserve your seat at The Owner’s Table.

Questions?
For questions, call 919.664.7090 or email Mimi Miller.

Emerging Leaders Fall 2026 10/13/2026 8:30 AM - 10/13/2026 10:30 AM

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:35:44 GMT

As Vice President of Project Development, Matt Chambers leads market positioning and growth efforts for Clancy & Theys, with a focus on the Triangle market. He works across all divisions to strengthen client relationships, guide long-term planning, and position the company for sustained growth.

With more than 30 years of construction industry experience, Matt brings a well-rounded perspective shaped by roles as both a subcontractor and construction manager. Throughout his career, he has led operations, business development, safety, marketing, and diversity initiatives, always prioritizing collaboration and client success.

Matt is actively involved in advancing the construction industry and serving his community. He served as the 2025 Chair of the Carolinas AGC Building Division and is Co-Chair of the NC AIA/Carolinas AGC Joint Committee. He also serves on the WakeMed Foundation Board of Directors and the Wake County Economic Development Board. That’s not all, however: Matt’s complete list of organizational memberships and community involvement initiatives is simply too long to list here.

Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time with his family and cheering on the NC State Wolfpack.

Schedule:

All classes are held on Tuesday mornings from 8:30 - 10:30 a.m., except the first class which will be held from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.
October 6 - Welcome - Kickoff - Class Coach
October 13 - Matt Chambers, Vice President of Project Development, Clancy & Theys Construction Company
October 20 - Creighton Blackwell, Chief Community and Public Affairs Officer, Coastal Credit Union
October 27 - Don Mial, Chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners
November 3 - Patricia Burch, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Greater Raleigh
November 10 - Rick Guirlinger, Owner and President, Bourke Services, LLC
November 17 - Kristen M. Hess, Founder and CEO, HH Architecture
December 1 - Danny Rosin, Co-Founder, Brand Fuel

Register for the Emerging Leaders Fall 2026 Cohort here.

For questions, email Devin Brown.

Young Professionals Network Social - October 2026 10/14/2026 5:00 PM - 10/14/2026 7:00 PM

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:46:32 GMT

This event is open only to Young Professionals Network members.

Connect at our Young Professionals Network Social!

Join YPN for an unforgettable YPN Social hosted by Address East End, where modern living meets vibrant city energy. Located just minutes from the historic charm of Mordecai and Oakwood, this stunning apartment community offers the perfect backdrop for an evening of meaningful connections and relaxed conversation.

Mix and mingle with fellow YPN members and guests thinking about joining while exploring a beautifully designed space that blends contemporary style with thoughtful details—from open, airy floorplans to smart-home features and upscale shared spaces. Address East End was created for people who value both convenience and community, making it an ideal setting to spark new relationships and strengthen existing ones.

RSVP by Oct. 7.

Questions?
For questions on content, call 919.664.7090 or email Mimi Miller.
For registration questions, call 919.664.7033 or email Alea Morales.

Let's stay connected!
Facebook: Raleigh YPN
Instagram: @RaleighYPN
LinkedIn: Raleigh Young Professionals Network (YPN)
X: @RaleighChamber
#RaleighYPN

Young Professionals Network Community Involvement Day - October 2026 10/16/2026 8:00 AM - 10/16/2026 3:30 PM

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 17:03:22 GMT

This event is open only to Young Professionals Network members. To become a member, please email Mimi Miller.

Give Back at Our Bi-Annual Community Involvement Day
Join fellow Young Professionals Network (YPN) members for a day of service with Habitat for Humanity Greater Raleigh. Together, we'll work alongside Habitat staff, volunteers, and future homeowners to help build safe, affordable housing right here in our community.

You don't need construction experience—just a willingness to learn, lend a hand, and be part of something meaningful. Habitat volunteers often say they come expecting to build a house but leave having built friendships, gained new skills, and experienced the power of working toward a shared purpose. Every hammer swung and wall raised helps create the foundation for a family's future while strengthening our own connection to the community. Whether you've volunteered on a build site before or this is your first time picking up a tool, this is an opportunity to step outside your daily routine, work alongside fellow members, and make a lasting impact!

Agenda:
7:40 a.m. - Meet at Greater Raleigh Chamber to Carpool to Build Site
8 - 8:10 a.m. - Volunteer Check-In and Registration (Please arrive promptly so we can begin on time! For safety reasons, late arrivals may be turned away.)
8:15 a.m. - Volunteer Orientation and Safety Overview, Tasks Assigned, Workday Begins
11:30 a.m. - Noone - Lunch Break (Lunch is not provided.)
3 - 3:30 p.m. - Site Cleanup

What To Wear: Wear good work shoes – boots are best, sturdy sneakers are fine. No sandals, open-toed or open-heeled shoes, or light canvas-type shoes. Wear clothes that can get dirty. Avoid loose-fitting or baggy clothes. Dress according to the weather! Have a good hat and an extra shirt on hot days and dress in warm clothes and layers on cold days. Sunscreen is essential for most days in March through October.

For more information, please visit the Habitat For Humanity FAQ page

RSVP by October 1 - To participate, you must also register with Habitat For Humanity here. Registrants who do not fill out the form by October 1 may be turned away on build day.

Questions?
For questions on content, call 919.664.7090 or email Mimi Miller.
For registration questions, call 919.664.7033 or email Alea Morales.

Let's stay connected!
Facebook: Raleigh YPN
Instagram: @RaleighYPN
LinkedIn: Raleigh YPN
X: @RaleighChamber
#RaleighYPN

Business After Hours - October 2026 10/19/2026 5:00 PM - 10/19/2026 7:00 PM

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:08:57 GMT

Meet New Connections and Network at Business After Hours

Join us for an exciting evening of networking at Triangle Shooting Academy, where business connections meet a one-of-a-kind experience. Expand your professional network in the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere of the lounge while exploring one of the area's premier shooting facilities.

Whether you are looking to meet potential clients, strengthen existing relationships, or simply connect with fellow Chamber members, Business After Hours is the perfect opportunity to grow your network. As part of the evening, attendees will have the chance to step onto the shooting range and experience everything Triangle Shooting Academy has to offer.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to make meaningful connections, discover a local Chamber member business, and enjoy an unforgettable networking experience.

We don’t want you to miss out - please be sure to complete this waiver before arriving!

RSVP by Oct. 15

Questions?
For questions on content, call 919.664.7090 or email Mimi Miller.
For registration questions, call 919.664.7033 or email Alea Morales.

Join the conversation on X!
@raleighchamber
#RaleighBAH

Emerging Leaders Fall 2026 10/20/2026 8:30 AM - 10/20/2026 10:30 AM

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:35:54 GMT

Golf Tournament 2026 10/26/2026 8:00 AM - 10/26/2026 5:00 PM

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 14:49:02 GMT

Registration and Breakfast | 8 - 10:30 a.m.
Driving Range and Putting Green | 9:30 – 11 a.m.
Shotgun start | 11 a.m.
Reception | 3:45 - 5 p.m.

Hit the Links at the Greater Raleigh Chamber Golf Tournament

Hit the links with colleagues, clients, and peers from across the Triangle! With over 300 golfers participating on all three courses at Prestonwood Country Club, our annual Greater Raleigh Chamber Golf Tournament offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the top business decision-makers in the Triangle. Sponsorships are required to play in the tournament and are open to members and non-members. Sponsorship includes:

•    Four participant slots for a day of play
•    A delicious continental breakfast and boxed lunch
•    Cart usage to navigate the course with ease
•    Green fees on a beautiful course
•    Complimentary beverages and snacks during play
•    An exclusive cocktail and awards reception following the tournament
•    A chance to enter the raffle with amazing prizes

View all sponsorship levels, pricing, and coordinating benefits on our sponsorship page.

To purchase sponsorships, email sales@raleighchamber.org

*All printed items will be going to print on Friday, Oct. 9. All sponsorships purchased after this date will not receive full sponsor benefits and will not be included in materials.

No refunds after Sept. 25.

Questions?
For questions regarding registering golfers for your foursome and benefit fulfillment, email Jen Palmer.
For questions regarding the tournament agenda and sponsorship benefits, email Jackie Huitt.

Join the conversation on social media!
@raleighchamber
#ChamberGolf26

Emerging Leaders Fall 2026 10/27/2026 8:30 AM - 10/27/2026 10:30 AM

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:36:01 GMT

Wake County Board of Commissioners Chair Don Mial is a lifelong public servant who is excited to represent District 1, which includes parts of Knightdale, Rolesville, Wendell and Zebulon. He grew up in a farming community in eastern Wake County before going on to have a distinguished 30-year military career, followed by an extensive career in law enforcement and juvenile justice, as well as teaching at community colleges. He has served on many local board, including the Wake County Board of Elections and Wake County Board of Adjustment. He was elected as a commissioner in 2022 he has served as Vice Chair, and is now honored to serve as Chair for 2026. He frequently works on issues impacting farmers and veterans. When he has time, Chair Mial enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and riding motorcycles.

Schedule:

Introduction to the Greater Raleigh Chamber - A Prospective Member Event - October 2026 10/29/2026 8:30 AM - 10/29/2026 10:00 AM

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 17:12:16 GMT

For Prospective Members Only

Registration: 8:30 – 9 a.m.
Program: 9 – 10 a.m.

Discover the Power of Chamber Membership

Are you looking to grow your business, strengthen your connections, and engage more deeply in the Raleigh business community? Join us for an inside look at the Greater Raleigh Chamber and learn how membership can support your goals.

During this exclusive session designed for prospective members, our President and CEO, Adrienne Cole, will share how the Chamber drives economic growth, supports local businesses of every size, and helps shape the future of our region. You will gain a clear understanding of the Chamber’s impact and how you can be part of it.

You will walk away with a better understanding of how Chamber membership can help you:

Increase visibility for your business through 140+ curated events, marketing opportunities, and targeted programs
Build powerful relationships with the region’s most influential business and civic leaders
Access tools and initiatives that support growth, talent development, advocacy, and strategic connections
Engage in shaping the region’s future, helping to strengthen the economic and community landscape in which your business operates

Employees of current member firms interested in learning more should register for our New Member Orientation.

Questions?

For questions about joining the Chamber, email join@raleighchamber.org.

C-Suite Perspectives with Kristen M. Hess of HH Architecture 10/30/2026 8:00 AM - 10/30/2026 9:30 AM

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:21:07 GMT

Learn Leadership Lessons from a Local Leader

Starting a business and leading it through growth require different skills. Kristen M. Hess, FAIA, has spent more than 20 years learning how to do both, and now she is joining us for our bi-monthly C-Suite Perspectives series.

Kristen founded HH Architecture in 2005 and has grown the firm to nearly 50 employees. Its portfolio includes several well-known projects across North Carolina, including the Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center and expansions at the North Carolina Zoo. As she completes her term as Chair of the Greater Raleigh Chamber Board of Directors, Kristen will share what she has learned about building a company, developing a team, and taking on a larger role in the community.

During this candid conversation, Kristen will discuss:

How her role changed as HH Architecture grew
What she has learned about hiring, delegation, and company culture
How she makes decisions when the path ahead is not always clear
Why she believes business leaders should take an active role in the community

Who Should Attend

This program is for executives, business owners, senior leaders, and others who are responsible for growing a company, leading a team, or helping shape the future of our region.

About Kristen M. Hess, FAIA

Kristen is the founder and owner of HH Architecture. She was named the 2022 North Carolina Small Business Person of the Year and was elevated to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows, an honor held by approximately 3% of AIA members.

Her leadership also extends beyond her firm. Kristen has served as Chairperson of the Greater Raleigh Chamber Board of Directors and participated in the Eisenhower and Marshall Memorial Fellowships. She supports HUB and MWBE businesses and has remained active in mentorship, including her work as a Girl Scouts troop leader.

C-Suite Perspectives is open only to Greater Raleigh Chamber members. Registration is required. Refunds will not be available after Friday, October 23.

Questions?
For questions about the agenda, call 919.664.7090 or email Mimi Miller.
For logistics questions, call 919.664.7036 or email Kennedy Wordsworth.
For registration questions, call 919.664.7033 or email Alea Morales.
For sponsorship information, email sales@raleighchamber.org.

Join the conversation on social media!
@raleighchamber
#CSuitePers