The First Meet Up Tri-State was a Success! | | |
The Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce joined forces with the Northeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce to host the inaugural Meetup Tri-State event at the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation.
The event coincided with Support Your Local Chamber Day and served as a powerful reminder that bridges connect us rather than divide us.
Business and community leaders from West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky gathered for an evening dedicated to strengthening regional partnerships, fostering collaboration, and expanding professional networks across state lines.
We extend our sincere appreciation to our presenting sponsor, Netranom, for their generous support, as well as to our event sponsors—Huntington Young Professionals, Foundation for the Tri-State Community, Edward Jones, United Bank, Joe Justice, Dinsmore & Shohl, Advantage Valley, Inc., Kentucky Young Lawyers Division, LEVEL Entertainment, and Kenneth P. Hicks Law Office—for helping make this collaborative initiative a success!
📸 Check out the highlights from this event: https://www.facebook.com/HWVChamber
| | The Chamber Unveils Small Business Roundtable | |
The Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of its new Small Business Roundtable, a collaborative forum designed to connect, empower and support local entrepreneurs.
Chaired by Rebecca Thomas, owner of True Soul Boutique and Leadership Huntington Class of 2025 graduate, the roundtable will offer small business owners a space to share resources, exchange ideas and find strength in community.
The first meeting will be held Wednesday, Nov. 20, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Huntington’s Kitchen. This is a FREE event and spots will fill up fast so make sure to register!
For more details, visit huntingtonchamber.org
| Save the Date for our Grants 101 Workshop in Huntington! | |
Date / Time: Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Marshall University, Memorial Student Center, Room BE-5, 1 John Marshall Dr., Huntington, WV
Calling all Grant Writers: Are you a nonprofit leader who is ready to take the next steps in your grant writing journey? On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit Roundtable will host the West Virginia Grant Resource Centers for a free Grants 101 Workshop! This comprehensive workshop, developed and led by the Grant Centers’ staff, will guide participants through each critical step of the pre-award process, including:
✅ Seeking & finding grants
✅ Drafting strong proposals
✅ Building & maximizing community partnerships
✅ Developing a budget & budget narratives
✅ Identifying matching funds
✅ Thinking like a reviewer
✅ Getting submission ready
Please Note: This workshop is a FREE resource, but registration is required by Friday, November 7, 2025. (If applicable) Seats for this event are limited and will be reserved in the order they were received.
| Now Hiring: Join the Chamber Team as our New Director of Marketing | | |
We’re excited to share the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce is hiring! We're currently looking for a dynamic, detail-oriented professional to join our team as a full-time Director of Marketing.
The Director of Marketing will lead the Chamber’s marketing and communications efforts to elevate the organization’s visibility, promote programs and events, and engage members and the broader business community. This role combines strategic thinking with creative execution, ensuring that the Chamber’s brand, messaging, and initiatives resonate with diverse audiences. If you or someone you know would be a great fit, we’d love to hear from you!
Applicants are asked to send a cover letter and resume to Megan Archer at megan@huntingtonchamber.org. Please include “Director of Marketing Application” with your name in the subject line. Additional materials may be included such as a portfolio of work and/or references. No phone calls, please. Applications must be submitted by Friday, October 31, 2025, to be considered.
Thank you for helping us spread the word—and for supporting the Chamber’s continued growth and impact.
| | Now Seeking Hosts for 2026 Business After Hours | | |
Interested in hosting a Business After Hours in 2026?
This premier networking series is your chance to spotlight your business, feature your facility, and engage with hundreds of professionals from across the region in a welcoming, dynamic setting. Hosting provides outstanding visibility, meaningful connections, and positions your business as an influencer in the community—spaces go fast, so reserve yours today!
If you'd like to learn more, please contact Megan Archer at megan@huntingtonchamber.org.
| | Don't Forget: Business After Hours at Huntington Children's Museum This Week! | | |
Join the Huntington Regional Chamber for October’s Business After Hours at the Huntington Children’s Museum!
Step into a space built for imagination and discovery on Thursday, October 23, from 5–7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of great food, drinks, and meaningful networking with fellow business professionals—all while experiencing one of Huntington’s most creative community spaces.
As an added bonus, Chamber President Megan Archer has agreed to take a pumpkin pie to the face if she reaches her fundraising goal for HCM's annual Pumpkin Carving Contest. She's less than $200 from reaching this goal, so please considering supporting this worthy cause and the incredible services provided by our local children's museum!
Date: Thursday, October 23rd
Time: 5 - 7 p.m.
Location: Huntington Children's Museum | 1700 Washington Ave, Huntington, WV 25701
| | Date Change: Sandy's Racing and Gaming Business Birthday | | |
The Huntington Regional Chamber invites you to celebrate two years of fun, excitement, and entertainment at one of our region’s premier destinations. Since opening, Sandy’s has become a go-to spot for racing, gaming, dining, and good times—bringing energy and economic growth to our community. Cheers to two incredible years and many more to come!
Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: 10775 US-60, Ashland, Kentucky 41102
| You're Invited: Goodwill Ribbon Cutting | | |
The Chamber will celebrate the grand opening of Goodwill’s new location at 446 Adams Avenue with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, October 23, at 11:00 a.m. This event marks an exciting addition to the Huntington business community. Join us as we welcome Goodwill to their new space and show our support for the positive impact they continue to make in our region.
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: 446 Adams Ave, Huntington
| | Limited Spots Available for October Lunch and Learn | | |
The Chamber’s October Lunch and Learn, led by Ryan Mayo, PMP, Vice President of Neighborgall Construction, brings expertise in guiding organizations through successful project outcomes by combining practical experience with proven strategies.
As a Project Management Professional, Mayo will present an in-depth session covering the essentials of project management, including how to define a project, the role of a project manager, and the measurable benefits of effective project management.
The presentation will walk attendees through the process of initiating and documenting a project, explore a variety of project delivery methodologies, and highlight the key skills every project manager needs to succeed.
The event will conclude with an engaging Q&A session, offering participants the opportunity to apply these concepts directly to their own professional challenges.
Attendees will receive a boxed lunch from Buddy’s BBQ.
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: 703 7th Ave, Huntington, WV 25701
| | State of the Chamber Annual Meeting and Award Ceremony | | |
Join us for an inspiring State of the Chamber event featuring a fireside chat with special guest Brad D. Smith, President of Marshall University. At this inaugural event, we will welcome the Chamber’s new Board of Directors, celebrate the contributions of outgoing members, and recognize exceptional community business leaders with special awards. Don’t miss this opportunity to kick off 2026 with a celebration of the achievements and future of our local business community!
- $50 Individual Ticket (Early Bird Pricing)
- $60 Individual Ticket After December 31
Tables and sponsorships are available. Questions? Contact chamber@huntingtonchamber.org.
| | You're Invited: November Business Afters Hosted by Sandy's Racing & Gaming | | |
Get ready for an exciting evening of networking and fun at our November Business After Hours, hosted by Sandy’s Racing & Gaming in Ashland, Kentucky! Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, connect with fellow Chamber members, and explore everything this premier entertainment destination has to offer!
Date: Thursday, November 13
Time: 5 - 7 p.m.
Location: Sandy's Racing & Gaming | 10775 US-60, Ashland, Kentucky 41102
| | Huntington Children's Museum Hosts Pumpkin Carving Fundraiser | | |
The Huntington Children’s Museum is shrieking with excitement as it welcomes the contestants for its 5th Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest: VIPs – Very Important Pumpkins! 🎃 Check out their profiles here: givebutter.com/hcmvips
Here’s the lineup of this year’s talented VIP contestants:
- Justin McElroy
- Greg Thompson
- Holly Smith Mount
- Isaac Meyers
- Fire Chief Greg Fuller
- Megan Archer
- Corduroy Brown
- Walker Tatum
- Dr. Matthew Christiansen
These creative contestants will put their carving skills (or lack thereof!) to the test to support the Huntington Children’s Museum’s Museums for All Program. Donations will help provide reduced admission for families facing economic hardships, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn and grow through play.
How to get involved:
-
Donate to Vote: $1 = 1 vote! Support your favorite pumpkin carver here: givebutter.com/hcmvips
- Extra Carving Time: For every $10 raised, contestants earn an extra minute of carving time (up to 30 minutes).
- Bring a Partner: Contestants who raise $500 before the event can bring a carving partner!
The community is invited to join the fun on Tuesday, October 21st from 6–8 PM at The Market for a night of creativity, laughter, and community spirit—all for a great cause.
Together, everyone can help brighten the future for families in the community while celebrating the season in style! 🧡🎃
| | Mountwest Welcomes Families for Trunk or Treat Fun! | | |
Mountwest Community & Technical College will host its 2nd Annual Family Night and Trunk-or-Treat on Thursday, October 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 1 Mountwest Way in Huntington.
This free, family-friendly event will feature food, games, music, inflatables, a sensory station, and more all set within this year’s whimsical Candyland theme. Families are invited to bring their children for a safe and fun evening of trick-or-treating on campus.
Building on the success of last year’s event, which welcomed more than 1,200 attendees, Mountwest looks forward to continuing this growing community tradition. For more information or to participate as a trunk host, visit shorturl.at/KOsH1. 🍬🎃
| | BDY Studios Presents: Wild, Wonderful & Well | | |
BDY Studios is bringing Wild, Wonderful & Well, a one-night wellness festival, to Heritage Station on Thursday, October 23. Celebrate movement, mindfulness, and community with a high-energy BDY class, live music, and a curated vendor market showcasing local wellness businesses.
When: Thursday, October 23 | 5:30–9 p.m.
Where: Heritage Station, Huntington, WV
Cost: $30
Sign up now via BDY Studios’ Events page and give yourself (or your kids!) the gift of wellness, connection, and fun!
| | Dave and Buster's Spooky Event Line-Up | |
Dave & Buster’s in Barboursville is celebrating Halloween all week long with a lineup of festive events for all ages! From the Monster Maul Trunk-or-Treat on October 28 to the D&B Haunted Hall by Fear on the Farm on October 29, the fun continues through the Dave & Boo-ster’s Moonlight Madness on October 30 and the Boo Bash on October 31.
Stop by 500 Mall Road for games, treats, and spooky surprises throughout the week. Visit daveandbusters.com/barboursville for full event details. 👻🎃
| All Aboard: Jackpot Junction — Your Ticket to Vegas-Style Fun, Right Here at Home | |
Hosted by Developmental Therapy Center. Bring your crew for Huntington’s fall night out.
From blackjack-style fun and festive sips to Halloween touches and live music by the 9-piece Nashville All Stars, All Aboard: Jackpot Junction delivers a high-energy evening on Saturday, November 1 at Willow Ridge Events. Enjoy themed food and drinks, seasonal décor, and a community celebration that fuels Developmental Therapy Center’s occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy for families across the Tri-State.
Seats are limited—do not miss the train. Tickets and details: Click Here
| Facing Hunger Food Bank Strengthens Food & Health Partnerships with New Grant | | |
Facing Hunger Food Bank has been awarded $437,500 in grant funding through a partnership with CVS Health and Feeding America to expand its healthcare collaboration efforts across the region.
The two-year initiative aims to create a sustainable and efficient system that connects food access with healthcare outcomes by strengthening partnerships, streamlining administrative processes, and supporting state-level advocacy for health-related social needs.
Through this Food & Health collaborative, Facing Hunger and its partners will focus on expanding healthcare integration, coordinating regional efforts, and building capacity for long-term impact.
CEO Cynthia Kirkhart emphasized that the goal is to make “nutritionally dense food resources available to everyone with chronic disease,” building on the organization’s ongoing Food Is Medicine work that began in 2017.
| |
José Andrés in Conversation at Marshall University | |
Renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés is coming to Marshall University for an inspiring conversation, moderated by Marshall President Brad D. Smith, as part of the MAS Masters Distinguished Speakers Series.
Join the Marshall Artists Series for a unique opportunity to hear Andrés share insights on food, community, and global impact. Seats are limited—reserve yours now and be part of this unforgettable evening.
When: Wednesday, Oct. 29
Time: 7:30 PM
Where: Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center
For tickets, call 304.696.6656 or visit https://www.ticketmaster.com/jose-andres-huntington-29-10-2025/event/160062F097B13C0D
| | Design Challenge Offers Cash for Creativity | | |
The 2025 West Virginia Makes Festival presents an opportunity to cash in on your creativity. Simply enter the festival’s annual Design Challenge for a chance to win money and other prizes.
This year’s Adult Category Grand Prize is $2,500. The second-place finisher will receive $750and third place will receive $250. The Grand Prize winner in the Youth Category will receive $300, with $200 going to the second-place finisher, and $100 to the third-place finisher.
Presented by the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC), the Oct. 24 festival – which will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Memorial Student Center on the Huntington campus of Marshall University – celebrates creativity, ingenuity and innovation in all forms.
The Design Challenge is free for everyone and open to all ages. Challengers will compete in either the youth category (ages 17 and under) or the adult category (ages 18 and older). To be eligible, sign up at www.mfg.marshall.edu/wvmakes25 then exhibit your creations Friday, Oct. 24, at the event.
A panel of judges will visit challengers’ tables during the festival to evaluate their entries and ask questions. Judging will be based on creativity, originality and presentation as challengers explain their creations.
“There are no set guidelines about what qualifies as a Design Challenge entry,” said Tyler Brandstetter, organizer of the annual MAMC event. “We welcome – and hope to see – a diversity of creations.”
In past festivals, entries have included everything from electronic devices, electric motorcycles, paintings and sculptures, costumes, a mechatronic dinosaur, phone and computer apps, Steampunk metal lamps and robots, a fiber optic switching system, mine-safety devices, web-based games, innovative ice cream scoops, a retractable phone holder, fishing lures, solar-powered lighted basketball hoops, medical devices, rockets – even pet desserts.
Entries don’t have to be physical objects. Original audio and video productions as well as performance art entries are welcome, Brandstetter said.
The 2025 Design Challenge participants must be set up and ready to meet judges and festival attendees Oct. 24 promptly at 9 a.m., when the festival begins. Learn more and sign up for the free event at www.mfg.marshall.edu/wvmakes25.
| | Share the Joy of Reading – Volunteer for Read Across the River Cities | | |
On Tuesday, Oct. 28, United Way of the River Cities will host its fourth annual Read Across the River Cities, bringing volunteers into every third-grade classroom across our six-county service area.
This year’s featured book is Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, and every student will receive their own copy to take home. Last year, nearly 300 volunteers read to more than 2,600 students — and we’re hoping to reach even more this year!
Reading sessions take about an hour at either 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Volunteers receive a free T-shirt and a brief virtual orientation to help them prepare.
Sign up today at unitedwevolunteer.org to inspire a child and make a difference — one story at a time.
Sponsored by Marathon, the Arthur and Joan Weisberg Family Foundation, Armstrong, Marshall Health Network, Steel of WV and Ohio University Southern.
| | Collins Career Technical Center Hosts South Point Campus Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | | |
Join Collins Career Technical Center Adult Education as we celebrate the opening of our new South Point campus! The event will include a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by refreshments and guided tours of the facility.
📍Collins Career Technical Center - South Point Campus
154 County Road 450
South Point, Ohio
We look forward to celebrating this exciting milestone with our community.
| | Please join Real Estate 4 the Tri-State for a Friendsgiving Lunch | | |
Real Estate 4 the Tri-State invites the community to a Friendsgiving Lunch on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 1225 6th Avenue in Huntington, WV.
Guests are encouraged to stop by, enjoy good company, and celebrate the business relationships built throughout the year. Attendees can also drop their business cards for a chance to win a holiday gift.
Parking will be available behind the building. The event is hosted by Lorre Wilson, Associate Broker, and Rebecca Holmes, Salesperson.
| | Opportunity for Business Leaders in West Virginia | |
This program provides small business owners with essential tools to grow and scale their companies through online and in-person classes. Participants will learn from top experts and gain insights on accessing financial capital while networking with other business leaders.
Qualified participants must have a minimum annual revenue of $75,000, two years of operation, and at least two employees.
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In Case You Missed It:
Last year, the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Goldman Sachs Foundation hosted a webinar on the 10,000 Small Businesses program, which offers free business training. You can watch the recording to learn about the program's details, outcomes and application process by clicking below.
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As you begin preparing your 2025-2026 marketing strategy, the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce invites you to explore our Sponsorship Investment Guide. This comprehensive resource outlines all remaining sponsorship opportunities available throughout the year.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and investors whose continued support helps drive the Chamber’s mission forward.
For questions or to discuss custom sponsorship packages, contact Megan Archer at megan@huntingtonchamber.org
| | The Monday Morning Memo is Generously Sponsored by | | Thank You to Our Trustee Members | | Thank You to Our Investor Members | | | | |
