Moe Belliveau, executive director of The Chamber of Greater Easthampton, is all about creating positive business development. Her office on Easthampton’s busy Union Street, is in the heart “hip, cool, wow, and now,” her favorite line besides “being over the moon.” Both describe how she feels about the city with a small-town feel and her work to promote business there
One of the reasons for its small-town feel, according to Moe, is the city’s great walkability. Stroll along Cottage Street and Union Streets and you’ll find eclectic shops and a variety of restaurants. That, and “the overall warm welcome you get when you arrive here,” she said.
From its beautiful boardwalk along the pond to restaurants and retail shops, arts and culture to recreation – the Manhan Rail Trail, and hiking trails; Easthampton has evolved into a place that attracts visitors as well as new residents.
"People who live and work in Easthampton are excited about their city and each other," said Moe. “They embrace its eclectic nature and the excitement of what’s happening next,” she added.
What’s happening next for the chamber is the transformation of its offices into co-working space. The organization is currently seeking funding to make that happen.
Moe said the co-working space will provide the chamber with an opportunity to invite members and nonmembers to use the space – space right in the middle of “hip, cool, wow, and now.”
“We’re right on the main bus line – that accessibility piece is important, there are all kinds of services right here, there are places to meet a client for lunch – or here in a private conference room,” said Moe, adding that there will be space at any one time for 18 workers.
Ever evolving to meet the needs of the business community, the chamber has recently launched Shop Where I Live, an online marketplace that allows shoppers to shop multiple local businesses with one cart and one checkout.
“Our goal is to have as many businesses as possible,” Moe said, pointing out that the platform is not limited to retail. “We want to help businesses develop long-term sustainability,” she added.
Shop Where I Live currently features 21 businesses, with others already signed on.
Throughout the Covid pandemic, the chamber has continued to add new members.
“I applaud their grit, the bold courageousness of all those folks who are starting something new – it’s a thrill,” Moe said.
