Bellingham Chamber Recognizes Seven Under 40, Sets Awards Dinner

The Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce has named seven individuals to its Top 7 Under 40 program. These professionals are early in their careers. The chamber will honor them as part of its annual recognition efforts.

The group recently announced the selection. The recipients represent various sectors within the region. The chamber views this program as a way to identify emerging leadership in the local workforce.

Guy Occhiogrosso, the chamber's president and CEO, released a statement on November 4, 2026. He noted that the chamber recognizes people at different stages of their professional lives. Some participants are just starting out, while others have built businesses over decades.

The chamber will hold its annual Awards Dinner in a few weeks. This event will celebrate businesses and individuals who have strengthened the region through leadership. Occhiogrosso stated that behind every successful business is a story of hard work and risk.

Local businesses face rising operating costs. Occhiogrosso said that for small firms, an additional expense or regulatory requirement can determine whether they hire new staff or expand. He argued that decisions on housing, taxation, and permitting have real consequences for employers and employees.

The chamber defines a business-friendly environment not as a lack of rules. Instead, it views successful businesses as partners in community development. Occhiogrosso suggested that leaders should consider the cumulative impact of policies, even when those policies are made with good intentions.

The election season has concluded. Occhiogrosso hopes that new and returning elected leaders will engage with the business community. He emphasized that creating conditions for business growth is a shared responsibility among all residents.