Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT's CEO Tony Sheridan Named 2026 NEACCE Chamber Executive of the Year

The award was presented during the 2026 NEACCE Annual Conference at Mohegan Sun, where chamber leaders from across the Northeast gathered to share best practices, discuss industry trends, and celebrate excellence in chamber leadership.

Sheridan's recognition reflects more than 20 years of leadership at the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, where he has helped shape one of the region's most influential business organizations, serving more than 1,300 member businesses across 42 communities. Under his direction, the Chamber has become a leading voice for economic development, entrepreneurship, legislative advocacy, workforce development, and regional collaboration.

"Tony's leadership has had a profound impact on Eastern Connecticut," stated Megan Gilbert, Chamber President, who was also in attendance at the conference and served as a panelist for a discussion on member retention and engagement. "As his successor and someone who spent more than a decade learning under his mentorship, I have seen firsthand the passion, perseverance, and commitment he brings to serving this region. His ability to unite people with a common purpose and turn vision into action has strengthened countless businesses, organizations, and communities across Eastern Connecticut."

During the conference, Chamber team members participated in educational sessions and industry discussions, exploring how chambers can build lasting relationships with businesses and transform members into active advocates.

The event also provided opportunities to learn from industry leaders and connect with chamber professionals from across New England. However, for the Chamber team, the defining moment came with Sheridan's recognition.

Over the course of his tenure, Sheridan has helped guide the region through pivotal moments, including advocacy efforts that supported the preservation of Naval Submarine Base New London during the 2005 BRAC process and opposition to the proposed Northeast Corridor rail bypass that threatened communities and tourism assets throughout the region.

His leadership was equally vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Chamber provided resources, business support, and personal protective equipment to local employers while adapting programs to meet rapidly changing community needs.

Among Sheridan's most notable achievements is the creation of the Regional Innovation Center in downtown New London. Opened debt-free in 2023 following a successful capital campaign that secured more than $3 million in public and private funding, the 8,300-square-foot facility now serves as a hub for entrepreneurship, collaboration, workforce development, and small business growth.

The Center is home to the Chamber's Entrepreneur Academy, which has supported more than 100 emerging entrepreneurs, many from historically underrepresented groups, by providing education, mentorship, and business development resources.

"Tony's tenacity has helped position the region for long-term success," Megan emphasized. "His ability to identify opportunities, build strong partnerships, and bring ambitious ideas to life has created lasting benefits for businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities throughout Eastern Connecticut. At every stage of his tenure with the Chamber, he has worked to leave Eastern Connecticut stronger than he found it, and the impact of his leadership will continue to benefit our communities for generations to come."

The Chamber congratulates Tony on this well-deserved recognition and thanks NEACCE for celebrating leadership that advances chambers, communities, and economic prosperity across New England.

About The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT: 

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut is one of the oldest Metro Chambers in the state, serving businesses since 1910 and championing a vibrant, sustainable regional economy through thoughtful advocacy, strategic partnerships, and innovative programming. As a collaborative network of professional and community leaders, we provide meaningful opportunities for connection, visibility, education, and engagement on the challenges and prospects shaping our region’s future. Home to the Regional Innovation Center—a hub for creativity and collaboration—we support small businesses, elevate local industries, and drive regional economic development, helping to build a thriving business ecosystem across Eastern Connecticut. For more information, visit ChamberECT.com.