The New Canaan Chamber was incorporated in 1952. The annual budget at that time was approximately $5,000, and the organization was supported by a handful of members. Over the past 70 years, The New Canaan Chamber of Commerce has developed a character and uniqueness all its own. The character and purpose of the New Canaan Chamber has always been determined by the needs and requirements of the business community in and around the downtown district as well as local non-profits and residents.

In July 2009, the New Canaan Chamber of Commerce officially merged with the New Canaan Village Association. Tucker Murphy took over the role of Executive Director in 2009 when many of our local businesses were still reeling from the 2008 financial crisis. Tucker completely reinvented the role the Chamber would play in the community, and with the guidance of a dedicated Board of Directors, the Chamber was re-branded with the simple and straightforward mission of “Connecting the Community with Commerce”.

Laura Budd was hired by the Chamber in January of 2012 to handle the ever-expanding marketing efforts of the Chamber as well as keep the office running smoothly. Laura assumed the role of Executive Director in September of 2020.

The New Canaan Business Community During Covid

The resiliency of our local stores and restaurants and the commitment of our residents to our local business community was on full display in 2020. Local Photographer Corinne Parker https://corinneparkerphotography.com/ did an amazing job capturing the spirit of our local business leaders during those difficult days.

In the spring of 2020, the Chamber partnered with local Cable Access Channel 79 and the New Canaan Library to invite our residents on a virtual tour of some of their favorite stores and restaurants. The three-part Zoom Downtown series delivered thousands of views and increased awareness of New Canaan local store and restaurant owners.

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Our Mission Statement is “Connecting the Community with Commerce”