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Workforce and Economic Advancement

Economic Growth worth investing in: Develop, support and sustain the long-term economic vitality of Rensselaer County together.

Thank You to our WE Advance Investors!

The strength of WE Advance efforts relies on the investment and collaboration of investors and regional partners who strive to build a successful, sustainable economy in Rensselaer County. Investors consist of public and private businesses and organizations representing a wide variety of industries. If your company is looking to make a financial investment to help the Chamber be recognized as a credible, business-focused, economic development organization, please contact the Chamber at (518) 274-7020.

 

Visionary

Rifenburg is one of Upstate New York's oldest and largest family owned construction firms. Working across the Northeast, Rifenburg has become recognized as a leader in getting projects completed on-time and safely. In 2000, one of Rifenburg's largest projects was recognized by OSHA as a VPP site, one of only two such sites to get this distinction in the United States. With over 340 hardworking employees in the Northeast and our regional office in Raleigh, NC, Rifenburg can staff a project of any size. Specializing in earth moving and restoration of all kinds, Rifenburg makes quick work of landfill expansions and closures, site work, highway and bridge expansion and utility installations.

Champion

As a local financial institution for more than 135 years, Pioneer understands the importance of inspiring progress and building healthy communities. We’ve grown to become “More Than a Bank” with banking, insurance, employee benefits, and wealth management solutions across 22 Capital Region locations. Our team takes pride in developing deep connections with clients, taking the time to understand complex deals, and make decisions quickly so that important projects can get off the ground. Whether you’re an individual, a business, a municipality or public entity, Pioneer is willing to do what it takes to earn your business and help our neighborhoods and communities move All Together Forward.

The Rensselaer County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) is dedicated to promoting economic development and vitality within Rensselaer County. Governed by a seven-member board, the IDA has the authority to offer sales and property tax incentives, grants and low-cost capital to attract and retain businesses.

Northern Rivers Names New Superintendent   ALBANY, NY — Northern Rivers Family of Services announced that Leesa Crawford-Imoro has been named Chief Education Officer and Superintendent of Schools. She will provide oversight and direction for Northern Rivers’ educational division, including the Early Learning Center and the School at Northeast,…
Great Barrington, September 7, 2026 – The Berkshire Bach Society opens its 2026-2027 season with a Harpsichord Festival on Sunday, September 20, 3pm, at the Berkshire Waldorf HS (the Old Town Hall) in Stockbridge, MA. Distinguished American harpsichordist KENNETH WEISS kicks off the festival with the six Partitas for Keyboard, BWV 825-830, by J.S…
Donations from customers and employees help equip students and families supported by Greenville Central School District and Refuge Place, Inc. for the new school year.   Albany, NY – Pioneer (NASDAQ: PBFS), a leading financial institution in New York's Capital Region, provided more than 6,000 school supplies and 215 backpacks to local…
Sep
09
The 1 Million Cups Weekly Meetings continue throughout 2026 in the COG conference room. Held every Wednesday, these gatherings bring together local…
Wednesday, September 9, from 9:00am - 10:00am
Sep
10
Join us for a morning boost! Enjoy fresh coffee, snacks, and great conversation while learning how to make the most of your Chamber membership.  REGISTER…
Thursday, September 10, from 8:30am - 9:30am
Sep
17
Save the date for our 36th Annual Van Rensselaer Awards Dinner on September 17th! These awards honor the outstanding businesses in our region that make…
Thursday, September 17th, 2026, from 5:30PM - 8:00PM