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Greetings!
What a full week it has been! We are grateful to everyone who joined us for the Gubernatorial Forum on October 7th and the GYP Senatorial Forum on October 8th. Our sincere thanks to all of the candidates for participating and engaging so thoughtfully with our members. If you were unable to attend, recordings of both events are available for you to watch at your leisure. Special thanks to Glimpses Media and the Pacific Daily News for generously sharing their live streaming resources.
We encourage you to continue the conversation about Project Prosperity with your family, friends, co-workers, and even the person standing next to you in line. The more informed we are about the candidates, the better equipped we will be to make confident decisions at the polls. Don’t be fooled by misleading social media posts. Ask questions and get real answers. Then vote. Early voting has begun and continues through October 28th. Please visit the Guam Election Commission website for details.
Speaker Frank Blas Jr. wants to hear from our businesses in the tourism industry. A roundtable is scheduled for Friday, October 16th. Scroll down for details. Our calendar is filled with additional events, and we invite you to scroll below for details and to reserve your seat. Be sure to continue all the way to the bottom of the newsletter to discover community activities and member hotel happenings.
We continue to receive raving comments about our Anniversary Celebration held last month. The Chamber Team wanted me to share this event highlight with you. Be sure to save the date on your calendar for our 103rd Anniversary on Saturday, May 1, 2027.
The Chamber office will be closed on Monday, October 12th in observance of Columbus Day. We look forward to serving you again on Tuesday, October 13th.
Thank you for being an essential part of the Chamber community. I look forward to seeing you at a Chamber event very soon.
Onward Together,
Catherine Castro
President
| | Upcoming Events | OCTOBER 2026 | | |
OCT 12
Columbus Day Holiday
Guam Chamber Office Closed

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OCT 13
Maritime Affairs Committee Meeting
Guam Chamber of Commerce Conference Room
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OCT 20
JRM J9 Quality of Life Expo
2nd Floor Julale Shopping Center
RSVP Required

| | Guam Chamber Gubernatorial Forum | | |
The Guam Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its Gubernatorial Forum at the Dusit Thani Guam Resort, bringing together a packed audience for an important conversation about the future of Guam.
The forum addressed issues that impact our island and its business community, including economic growth and jobs, infrastructure, investment, tourism, and the overall business climate. The discussion provided an opportunity for attendees to hear directly from the gubernatorial candidates and learn more about their perspectives and priorities for Guam.
Ask. Listen. Consider. Vote.
Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ to both gubernatorial teams, our members, and everyone who attended to help make this forum a meaningful and successful community conversation!
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GYP Senatorial Forum Series & Mixer
October 8, 2026 Recap
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The Guam Young Professionals (GYP) hosted its “You Decide” Legislative Forum & Mixer at the Guam Chamber of Commerce Office in Hagåtña, providing an opportunity for Republican candidates and young professionals to connect, exchange perspectives, and engage in meaningful discussions on issues impacting Guam’s future.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the participating candidates, Chamber members, GYP participants, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to making this event a success.

Early voting is underway! Make your voice heard and take part in shaping Guam’s future. Every vote counts. The General Election will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Click to view more photos
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GYP on Air & Social
Like & Reshare!
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PACIFIC DAILY NEWS
Guam Young Professionals hosting senatorial forum
Click to watch the livestream!
| | What issues are on Young Professionals minds as we consider candidates this election season? | | Your Chamber in the News & Socials | |
Guam Experience Commission Legislative Informational Brief
9:00 a.m. Friday, October 16, 2026
Guam Congress Public Hearing Room
Speaker Frank Blas, Jr. has scheduled a Legislative Informational Brief on the current state of Guam’s tourism industry, including the challenges before us, the changing needs of the industry, and the opportunities that lie ahead. The briefing will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Guam Congress Public Hearing Room.
The briefing will be facilitated by the Legislature’s Guam Experience Commission, formalized through Resolution 22-38 (COR) and tasked with examining Guam’s visitor industry through the perspectives of those who are directly engaged in tourism operations, cultural experiences, small business, workforce development, and community life. The Commission provides an important opportunity to bring these voices to the legislative table and ensure that our discussions are informed by the realities experienced by the people who contribute to Guam’s visitor economy every day.
Tourism remains one of Guam’s most important economic pillars, but its significance extends well beyond visitor arrivals and economic activity. It touches our small businesses, our workforce, our villages, our cultural institutions, and the way we present Guam to the world. As we look toward the future, we must understand not only where the industry stands today, but also what is needed to ensure that tourism remains resilient, competitive, and beneficial to the people and communities of Guam.
This briefing will allow us to hear directly from industry stakeholders, cultural practitioners, workforce representatives, small business owners, and community members regarding the challenges they face, the evolving expectations of visitors, the impacts of tourism on our communities, and the opportunities available to strengthen and diversify Guam’s visitor experience.
The perspectives shared during this briefing will help provide that foundation as we evaluate Guam’s tourism trajectory and consider future legislative action.
Members are encouraged to attend and participate in this important discussion. The future of Guam’s tourism industry is ultimately connected to the future of our communities, our economy, and our ability to share the unique culture and character of our island with those who come to our shores. View Invitation Letter
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QOL EXPO WITH J9
Tuesday, October 20 - 1:00 PM
AFC MEMBERS ONLY
The Guam Chamber of Commerce’s Armed Forces Committee (AFC) members are invited to visit JRM J9 at its new offices in Julale Shopping Center for a discussion focused on the upcoming Quality of Life (QOL) Expo.
This gathering will provide an opportunity for AFC members to connect with JRM J9, learn more about the QOL Expo, and discuss ways to support initiatives that benefit Guam’s military community and their families.
Space is limited to 30 participants! RSVP today to secure your spot. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged!
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SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 22nd
Brews at the Bank Mixer
Looking for a great opportunity to connect with local professionals and build valuable business relationships? Join us at the upcoming networking mixer at BankPacific in Hagåtña on October 22nd from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Special thanks to BankPacific and Ambros, Inc. for co-hosting what is sure to be a fangtastic event!
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THANK YOU TO OUR TOY COLLECTION SITES!
These fine establishments have opened their doors to residents and organizations interested in contributing toys for this year's campaign. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to any of the businesses below during their normal business hours.
Need gift ideas? View our gift guide here!
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Bank of Hawaii
BankPacific
(Hagatna)
Burger King
(Hagatna & Tumon)
Coast360 Federal Credit Union
(All branches)
Docomo HQ
GTA
Guam Baby Company
Guam Chamber of Commerce
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Guam Economic Development Authority
Hotel Nikko Guam
JWS Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Ltd.
Lotte Hotel Guam
Pacific Island Club
PinPoint
Rhiga Royal Laguna Guam Resort
Security Title
Title Guaranty
Triple B Forwarders
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Congressional Forum
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
Secure your seat today for the Guam Chamber of Commerce Congressional Forum on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa! 

This is your opportunity to connect directly with congressional candidates and hear their visions and priorities for the future of Guam.

We strongly encourage all members to join us for this important discussion. Registration is officially open—contact the Chamber team or click the RSVP button to reserve your spot early!
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Celebrate National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day
Wednesday, October 21 is National Support Your Local Chamber Day!
What's happening: Each year on the third Wednesday in October, we celebrate National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day and thank local chambers across the country for all they do to help entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes thrive.
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Why it matters: There are approximately 4,000 chambers of commerce across the United States, all seeking to advance their members’ interests, spur job creation, and promote economic development.
Small Businesses Are Using AI to Hire More Americans
Small businesses using AI are four times more likely to report permanent job creation than headcount reductions, according to a new U.S. Chamber report. And they are 10% more likely to have added workers in the past year than peers who have not adopted the technology.
Why it matters: Half of all private-sector workers are employed by businesses with fewer than 250 people. When AI helps Main Street grow, millions of American families benefit.
Big picture: The U.S. Chamber's fifth Empowering Small Business report found that AI adoption among small businesses has nearly tripled since 2023—from 23% to 66%—as owners deploy it for marketing, customer service, and daily operations.
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And: Seventy-eight percent of small businesses say limiting AI access would inhibit their ability to grow.
Our take: Smart AI policy means a national framework that enables growth while delivering the accountability workers and the public deserve.
What they're saying: "The four-to-one advantage in job creation over job reductions turns the conventional wisdom about AI on its head" said Neil Bradley, U.S. Chamber Executive Vice President. "Policymakers should take this evidence seriously and avoid restricting the tools that are helping Main Street businesses hire, compete, and grow."
Bottom line: AI is adding jobs, growing the economy, and creating more opportunities for Americans. Read More
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The Guam Economic Development Authority (GEDA) has extended the submission deadline for the 2026 Guam State Trade Expansion Program (Guam STEP) to 5:00 PM on Monday, October 12, 2026.
Funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Guam STEP is intended to assist eligible small businesses enter and succeed in the international marketplace. The program’s objectives are to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting and to increase the value of exports for those small businesses that are currently exporting.
Guam STEP provides eligible small businesses with comprehensive export training, financial assistance for new to export and/or market expansion activities, and access to international markets.
Guam STEP has several components:
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Export Readiness Program (ERP) - ERP is a training and counseling program to assist eligible small businesses begin or expand their export market development and sales.
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International Marketing Program (IMP) - IMP provides financial assistance to eligible businesses that have completed the Export Readiness Program.
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Trade Promotion Program (TPP) - TPP provides opportunities for eligible businesses that have completed the Export Readiness Program to be selected through a competitive process for their participation in GEDA-hosted trade shows and missions.
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Export Conference - GEDA plans to host an export conference to connect local small businesses with export assistance/education and potential export activities.
Previous STEP participants interested in the new cycle must submit a new application.
Background information and the application forms are attached for your convenience. For more information about the program, please visit https://www.investguam.com/step/. If you require additional assistance or have further questions, contact GEDA at 671-647-4332 or email step@investguam.com.
We encourage Guam businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for Guam STEP 2026 before the new deadline.
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October 2026
Events & Promotions - Crowne Plaza
Click on the flyer above to view the Crowne Plaza's events and promotions!
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October 2026
Hilton Happenings
Click on the flyer above to view October happenings at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa!
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Cars Plus Trunk or Treat
Friday, October 23, 2026
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Get ready for a spooktacular evening of Halloween fun at Cars Plus Trunk or Treat! Join Cars Plus on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a family-friendly celebration open to kids of all ages.
Enjoy a festive night filled with face painting, balloons, food trucks, and plenty of Halloween fun. Bring the family, wear your favorite costume, and get ready for a memorable evening of treats and spooky surprises!
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Winefest: Back to the ’80s at Hyatt Regency Guam
Friday, October 23, 2026
Enjoy an evening featuring over 150 wines from around the world, global flavors, live entertainment, and the energy of the ’80s.
Tickets are available for purchase at The Deli or online through Winefest 2026 on Eventbrite.
Please see the attached flyer for details.
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17th Annual Abe Difuntorum Memorial Sea Services Golf Tournament
Friday, October 23, 2026
The Guam Council of the Navy League invites golfers to participate in the 17th Annual Abe Difuntorum Memorial Sea Services Golf Tournament on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Finest Guam Golf & Resort.
The tournament will feature a day of golf in support of and in honor of Guam’s sea services. Showtime is at 11:00 a.m., with a 12:00 p.m. start time.
Early bird registration is available at $125 per player or $250 per team, while regular registration is $150 per player or $300 per team.
For registration and additional information, contact Ben Mayoyo at 671-788-0110, Anna Gera-Van Seters at 671-488-2662, or Maggie Cruz, USNL POC, at 671-929-4429. You may also email navyleagueofguam@gmail.com
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Spirits of Hagåtña - A Trick or Treat Event
Saturday, October 24, 2026
| Join BankPacific and participating organizations on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. along Aspinall Avenue in Hagåtña for a memorable Halloween celebration in the heart of Hagåtña. With plenty of treats, fun, and spooky surprises, it's an event you won't want to miss! | | | |
Guam’s 2nd Plant, Seed & Produce Swap Meet
Sunday, November 8, 2026
Have plants, seeds, or fresh produce to share? Join the community for a morning of swapping, learning, and growing together at Guam’s 2nd Plant, Seed & Produce Swap Meet in front of the TaTuHa food forest & community Garden/Senior Center.
Bring something to swap! All participants must identify what they bring, including the item’s name, description, origin, quantity, and age or year. Enjoy live music, classes every 30 minutes, and raffle prizes featuring compost, water totes, seeds, plants, and more!
This is a money-free community event, open to the public. Space is limited, so come ready to share, connect, and grow!
For more information, contact Rey Llaneta at (671) 483-1530.
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Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam Presents 10th Annual Golf Tournament
Saturday, December 5, 2026
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam invites golfers and Chamber members to participate in the 10th Annual CCCG Classic Golf Tournament on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at Sono Felice Country Club in Mangilao.
The tournament will feature a 2-Man Best Ball format, with showtime at 11:00 a.m. and a 12:00 p.m. shotgun start. Registration is $275 per team, which includes green fees, cart, lunch, drinks, and a ditty bag.
Gather your teammate and enjoy a day of golf, networking, and friendly competition while supporting the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam.
For registration and inquiries, contact Charnamay Edward at admin@cccguam.org or 646-2168.
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This month's playlists! 🎶

Set the mood for spooky season with this month’s playlist! From Halloween classics to eerie favorites, enjoy a festive mix of songs perfect for the season. Press play, turn up the volume, and let the Halloween vibes begin! 👻🕸️ We dare you!
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