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FITCHBURG — The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corp. will host the third annual Small Business Showcase & Entrepreneur Awards Reception on Wednesday, April 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Leominster.

“The Small Business Showcase is a great opportunity for anyone in our community to meet and support the local entrepreneurs and small businesses that are driving our regional economy. From early-stage startups to established businesses, and the resource partners that help them succeed, it’s all under one roof for one evening, and everyone is welcome,” said Valerie Bruno, programs and events manager of the  North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.

The evening will spotlight the hard work, creativity and successes that drive the regional economy. With more than two dozen small businesses and resource providers exhibiting, officials said the showcase will offer an exceptional opportunity for meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, startup businesses, small business owners and community partners.

Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, while exploring exhibits from local small businesses showcasing their products and services.

The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing individuals, startup businesses and established small businesses that have demonstrated exceptional vision, resilience and impact within our communities.

Tatra Lappas will serve as emcee for the evening.

The event is open to the general public and all businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, including those just starting out. Chamber members holding Business After Hours season tickets may use them for this event. Tickets are $15 per person. Pr-registration is required. For more information about the event or to register online, visit northcentralmass.com or contact Valerie Bruno at 978.353.7600, Ext. 235, or at [email protected].

Sponsors include Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University; Corporate Sponsors Fidelity Bank and Workers Credit Union; Partner Sponsors Bay State Savings Bank, Main Street Bank and TD Bank; and Bag Sponsor Beacon Bank. Resource partners include MassDevelopment, NewVue Communities, Wachusett Business Incubator, Small Business Development Center, Massachusetts Office of Business Development, and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Sponsorship and exhibitor table opportunities are also still available.

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