The Greater Akron Chamber’s events and programs serve as opportunities to connect, convene, engage, and celebrate one another and the business community with our key initiatives.
GAC Annual Meeting
One of the largest gatherings of business leaders in Greater Akron, the GAC Annual Meeting represents an evening of celebration, connection, and recognition. This event includes a networking reception, presentation of the H. Peter Burg Economic Development Leadership Award, and a look at the past year’s accomplishments and priorities for the year ahead.
GAC Annual Meeting
One of the largest gatherings of business leaders in Greater Akron, the GAC Annual Meeting represents an evening of celebration, connection, and recognition. This event includes a networking reception, presentation of the H. Peter Burg Economic Development Leadership Award, and a look at the past year’s accomplishments and priorities for the year ahead.
30 For the Future
30 for the Future honors individuals that represent the next generation of Greater Akron’s leadership. This exclusive award recognizes individuals ages 25-39 who exhibit leadership both as a part of their company’s team and as an engaged leader in the Greater Akron community. Recognition of these leaders by current community leadership will continue to support and motivate their contributions. The event is celebratory, high-energy and leaves attendees feeling confident and excited about the next wave of leaders in this region.
Business at the Ballpark
Join fellow members for a no-program networking event at Canal Park. Attendees have exclusive access to a closed part of the ballpark for networking, followed by the chance to stay for an Akron RubberDucks baseball game. Bring your team, your clients, or your friends for a great opportunity to connect and have some fun.
Policy Conference & Leadership Reception
The Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance hosts an opportunity for elected officials, candidates, business executives, and community stakeholders to connect and network, both professionally and socially. In addition to a networking reception, this event features a dialogue among candidates in one of the upcoming races of interest during the current election cycle. Candidates have the opportunity to share their perspectives on key issues and attendees can interact with the candidates during a Q&A forum.
Economic Outlook
Economic Outlook is well-attended by business and community leaders who want to better understand the economic trends and forecasts for the year to come. In a panel format, thought leaders and industry experts will share their insights about what’s next in areas like inflation, consumer confidence, workforce, financial markets, and other critical business economic factors in the year ahead.
Women of Achievement Awards
The Women of Achievement event honors and recognizes female leadership across the region. Three awards will be announced to women who go above and beyond – personally and/or professionally – to support and advance women in leadership, celebrate their successes, and propel equity and inclusion efforts. During this event, attendees will hear from a keynote speaker and her perspectives on leadership, success, and steps toward gender equity in the workplace.
Interns in Greater Akron
A series specially designed for summer interns to learn about the assets of the Greater Akron region. Interns will connect with each other along with business leaders and professionals, experience a bit of the greatness of Greater Akron, and give back to the community.
Investor Series
Available exclusively to Investor Members, this is an opportunity for these leaders to connect with each other in a no-program, networking-focused event. The information and ability to be ‘in the room’ with decision makers and those at the center of key initiatives contributes to the strong turnout and engagement of those in attendance. These events are held three times a year and are open to leaders and representatives of GAC Investor Member companies. There is no cost to attend for Investor Members.
Morning Buzz
Morning Buzz is designed to bring business leaders, business owners and employees together to learn about business, community, and economic development key issues and initiatives in the region. Held eight times a year, each event kicks off with breakfast and networking, followed by a panel conversation. New in 2024, as part of the Morning Buzz series, we highlight a new venue in the region during a “Buzz Around Town” event. This special part of the series allows attendees to learn about the venue, the impact to the region, and network with others in attendance.
Polymer Cluster Networking Receptions
As the activity to advance the Polymer Industry Cluster in Akron continues, the ability to bring together leaders in the polymers cluster industry and supply chain is critical to this work. Networking events to convene these leaders are held in addition to the Polymer Cluster Connectivity Conference which will provide attendees with access to industry experts, breakout sessions and opportunities to connect.
Advocacy in Action Series
A part of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance, this series brings together business leaders, elected officials, policy experts and other thought leaders for discussions about key policy issues.
Business leaders have the unique opportunity to interact directly with policymakers enabling them to engage in conversation on key issues impacting the business and regulatory environment for Greater Akron. Topics and dates are based on the legislative calendar as it develops through the year. We focus on current, timely issues featuring the policy makers driving action on them.
Authentic Leadership: Leading With Strength
A program of the Women’s Network Leadership Institute, Leading with Strength is a two-session intensive experience, specifically for women. Participants will gain knowledge of and insight into their own unique strengths, learn strategies to leverage these strengths, and strengthen their network and enhance their positioning as leaders in the community.
Morning Buzz Series
Morning Buzz is designed to bring business leaders, business owners and employees together to learn about business, community, and economic development key issues and initiatives in the region. Held eight times a year, each event kicks off with breakfast and networking, followed by a panel conversation.
Polymer Industry Cluster Connectivity Conference
Hosted by the Polymer Industry Cluster through the Greater Akron Chamber, the Polymer Cluster Connectivity Conference is a limited-attendance event that develops and promotes a shared, industry-driven vision for Northeast Ohio’s Polymer Industry Cluster.
Small Business Series
Events specifically for small and mid-sized businesses leaders and owners, this event series consists of virtual information sessions, roundtables, and Swap 25 networking events. This series creates additional opportunities to connect with fellow business owners and leaders, build their networks, and learn about the various resources available to help them grow their business and address everyday challenges.
- During the virtual information sessions, GAC staff opens the conversation with 10+ available resources then opens it up for attendees to ask questions and dive further into discussion around specific resources of interest.
- Small Business Roundtables are held in person, featuring a round-robin approach where business owners share best practices and common challenges, enabling GAC staff to connect business owners to resources.
- Swap 25 events are speed networking events where business leaders and owners connect with everyone else in the room in a fast-paced, scheduled rotation.
30 For the Future
30 for the Future honors individuals that represent the next generation of Greater Akron’s leadership. This exclusive award recognizes individuals ages 25-39 who exhibit leadership both as a part of their company’s team and as an engaged leader in the Greater Akron community. Recognition of these leaders by current community leadership will continue to support and motivate their contributions. The event is celebratory, high-energy and leaves attendees feeling confident and excited about the next wave of leaders in this region.
Women of Achievement Awards
The Women of Achievement event honors and recognizes female leadership across the region. Three awards will be announced to women who go above and beyond – personally and/or professionally – to support and advance women in leadership, celebrate their successes, and propel equity and inclusion efforts. During this event, attendees will hear from a keynote speaker and her perspectives on leadership, success, and steps toward gender equity in the workplace.
Women’s Network Leadership Dialogue Series
The Women’s Network Leadership Dialogue Series is designed to create access, relationships, and insight among attendees. Through a set of regular events featuring a deep dive dialogue with high-profile female leaders, attendees will learn more about the leader and her path to leadership; engage in dialogue about pertinent economic development or other topics; and also have the opportunity to meet and interact with the leader and the other female professionals and leaders in attendance.
Authentic Leadership: Leading With Strength
A program of the Women’s Network Leadership Institute, Leading with Strength is a two-session intensive experience, specifically for women. Participants will gain knowledge of and insight into their own unique strengths, learn strategies to leverage these strengths, and strengthen their network and enhance their positioning as leaders in the community.
Women of Achievement Awards
The Women of Achievement event honors and recognizes female leadership across the region. Three awards will be announced to women who go above and beyond – personally and/or professionally – to support and advance women in leadership, celebrate their successes, and propel equity and inclusion efforts. During this event, attendees will hear from a keynote speaker and her perspectives on leadership, success, and steps toward gender equity in the workplace.
ANNA RICHARDS
Senior Manager, Programs and Events
arichards@greaterakronchamber.org
ANNA RICHARDS
Senior Manager, Programs and Events
arichards@greaterakronchamber.org
ANNA RICHARDS
Manager, Programs and Events
arichards@greaterakronchamber.org