Chamber Perspective: Megan Gilbert, Director of Programs

I’m Megan Gilbert, Director of Programs for the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT. I’m recently and happily married, so you may also know me as Megan Cronin. I’ve been with the Chamber for nearly 7 years, and I’m thrilled to be part of an organization that supports the community with so many valuable programs and opportunities.

My husband Sean and I are from the Old Saybrook area, and now call Gales Ferry our home, along with our cat, Earl, and a family of chinchillas (click here if you’re not sure what these rambunctious little creatures are). Together, Sean and I operate a small freelance company, proud Chamber member Pique Creative, and we help non-profits and small businesses with marketing and design. I enjoy photography, hiking, cooking, DIY projects, and I’m learning to play piano.

In my role, I oversee the planning and execution of our 150+ annual events and programs, with the help of an amazing team at the Chamber. Our goal is to connect the business community with the information and contacts they need to be even more successful, and our focus is primarily three-fold:

Networking: 
Every event offers some facet of B2B networking, and we help facilitate important connections between our members regularly. Get to know your peers, make trustworthy, lasting contacts, and keep business in our community. Don’t be shy – come to an event and introduce yourself! Our Business After Hours are a great way to start in a casual atmosphere. 

Education:
We hope that our members gain valuable information at each of our educational programs. Our Business Breakfasts feature engaging discussions of current issues with legislators or industry experts. On a smaller scale, we have a robust workshop schedule, often free to members, to teach best practices in marketing, operations, and more.

Exposure:
Events are a great way for a host to gain positive PR for their important work, as many of our members know through their own events. At Chamber events, we are proud to offer strategic, affordable advertising opportunities. Our sponsors are integral to our success, so our goal is to offer you the strongest possible avenue to engage with the local business and non-profit community.

Contact me for sponsorship opportunities, event feedback or advice, and program partnerships, and be sure to say hello at the next event!