Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Chamber 101: Maximize Your Membership

Friday, August 1

This event allows members to learn about Chamber programs, resources, and events and how to get involved to make the most of your membership. Hosted by Gina Cesari, Member Relations Coordinator, this program will walk you through everything there is to know about the Tompkins Chamber and the vibrant business community in Tompkins County.

This session will be in person at the Tompkins Chamber offices.

LGBTQ+ Roundtable

Tuesday, August 5, 3:30-5pm

Looking for a supportive space to share ideas, get advice, and connect with mentors? The LGBTQ+ Roundtable is the perfect platform for queer professionals to cultivate relationships, explore topics relevant to their professional journeys, and advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in Tompkins County. 

Thank you to Hammerstone School for hosting us this quarter! Registration is free and open to all who identify as LGBTQ+

Live in Ithaca: Bands & Brews at Visions

Tuesday, Aug 5, 6-8pm

Do you have new employees or colleagues to welcome to the community? This month we will be gathering on a TUESDAY for Visions' Bands & Brews event at their outdoor amphitheater! Featuring an Ithaca favorite, Fall Creek Brass Band, this gathering is sure to be a blast!

Join us for an evening of fun, networking, and discovery as we bring together community members old and new in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re here to find new connections, learn about local resources, or simply introduce yourself to the neighborhood, this event is for you! Tell us you're coming in advance and receive a welcome gift at the Tompkins Chamber table!

Public Meeting for Project Applications for City of Ithaca Downtown Revitalization Initiative

In-person, Tuesday, July 29, 5 to 7pm

The City of Ithaca is applying for Round 9 of the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). If awarded, $10 million in DRI funding would support catalytic projects in downtown Ithaca intended to spur revitalization and community vibrancy. The DRI Steering Committee is presently reviewing projects to include in their application.

Following the presentation and public info session at the Tompkins County Public Library, a public survey will be available for all to provide comments and input on the eligible projects.

More information can be found on the city's website here.

Questions, please contact Emma Recckio: erecckio@cityofithaca.org

To develop a competitive DRI application, it is crucial to have public input and a strong list of diverse projects. Your input is greatly valued in this process.

City of Ithaca Survey for Businesses

Responses due Aug 4

The City of Ithaca hereby requests input from business owners & managers to help guide the creation of its economic development strategy. The strategy will be action-oriented, with prioritized steps that the City can take in the next several years to help achieve its economic development vision.

Responses will be kept anonymous. The online survey linked below will only take about 8 minutes to complete. Please feel free to share it with other businesses located in the City of Ithaca.

Questions? Reach out to Tom Knipe, Deputy Director for Economic Development, tknipe@cityofithaca.org or 607-274-6554.

NYSEG/RG&E Non-Residential 2026 Program Preview: What’s Changing, What It Means, and How to Prepare Thursday, July 24, noon-1pm webinar

This session is designed for Trade Allies, contractors, and commercial customers who want a clear understanding of what’s changing, why it matters, and how to plan ahead.



Big changes are coming in 2026—and now is the time to prepare. Join us for the first session in our 2026 Readiness Training Series, where we’ll break down key program updates driven by the Public Service Commission’s May 2025 Order.

Questions? Contact your local Energy Advisor or Program Support. cienergysavings@franklinenergy.com OR 888.316.8023

 Pilot Program Supports Eligible Small Businesses in Protecting Their Workers From Effects of Extreme Heat

The NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit is available to small businesses — up to 10 employees — in manufacturing, warehousing, carpentry, landscaping and farming; industries where workers are often exposed to extreme temperatures. These businesses can receive a one-time credit of $1,000 or 10 percent of their annual workers’ compensation premium, whichever is less, toward the purchase of PPE designed to protect workers from the effects of extreme heat.

Eligible purchases under the NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit program include but are not limited to fans, ventilation systems, cooling vests, ventilated hard hats, UV-resistant safety glasses, and cooling towels. For more information, visit nysif.com