Maine State Chamber Hosts Business Day at the State House

For Immediate Release                                                                                                
Media Contact: Katie Clark
Monday, April 7, 2025                                                                                                               
Cell: 207-233-2230

AUGUSTA, Maine (April 7, 2025) – The Maine State Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Business Day at the State House on Thursday, April 3, welcoming business leaders from across the state to connect directly with lawmakers and state officials on the issues that matter most to Maine’s economy.
 
Held in the historic Hall of Flags, the event brought together Maine companies and organizations showcasing their work, impact and innovations. Legislators had the opportunity to meet with business representatives, explore exhibits and engage in meaningful conversations about how to strengthen Maine’s business climate.
 
“This event is a powerful reminder that Maine’s economy is driven by the resilience of our business community,” said Patrick Woodcock, president and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. “Business Day at the State House is a clear example of the kind of collaboration we need — where employers and policymakers come together to listen, learn and lead. From stabilizing our workforce to unlocking housing solutions, the path forward must be shaped through strong partnerships. We’re committed to working with lawmakers to advance a positive business climate and secure a strong state economy in which Maine businesses can compete and succeed.”
 
The morning program featured remarks from key leaders, including:

• Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau
• Patrick Woodcock, president and CEO, Maine State Chamber
• Michael Duguay, commissioner, Maine Department of Economic and Community Development
• Assistant House Minority Leader Katrina Smith

 
Exhibiting businesses and organizations included: Serra Public Affairs, MEMIC, AT&T, Casella Waste Systems, Central Maine Power, Fidelity Investments, General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, IDEXX Laboratories, the Maine Community College System, Maine DECD, McDonald’s Corp., Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority, Poland Spring, Springworks Farm, The Jackson Laboratory, and Versant Power.
 
The Chamber also proudly recognized two distinguished state officials with its 2025 Business Champion Awards:

• Melanie Loyzim, commissioner, Maine Department of Environmental Protection
• Dr. Michael Allen, associate commissioner for tax policy

 
These individuals were honored for their exemplary service, leadership and commitment to fostering a business-friendly climate in Maine.
 
The Chamber extended special thanks to event sponsors MEMIC, The Holy Donut, and Serra Public Affairs; to Headlight Audio Video for technical support; and to Maine’s local and regional chambers of commerce, whose ongoing support helps drive the state’s economic growth.
 
“Together, we can make Maine an even better place to live, work and do business,” Woodcock said.