Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber Named Chamber of the Year

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce honored the regional group for its leadership during its annual meeting in Portland.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Philanthropy

A peaceful lake in Maine surrounded by pine forests at dawn, with mist rising from the water's surface. — The Maine State Chamber of Commerce named the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber the 2026 Chamber of the Year during their annual dinner. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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On October 1, 2026, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce named the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce the 2026 Dana F. Connors Chamber of the Year. The award was presented at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland during the organization's annual meeting and dinner.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the chamber's leadership, community impact, and contributions to the broader Maine business environment. It serves as a benchmark for local organizations working to support regional economic growth and development.

The Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber represents five communities, over 110 lakes and ponds, and more than 140 businesses. The event in Portland drew an attendance of more than 400 business, government, and community leaders.

The players

Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce

This organization represents five communities and provides support for over 140 local businesses.

Maine State Chamber of Commerce

This entity serves as a leading business advocacy organization that hosts the annual gubernatorial debate and awards program.

The Geiger Family and Geiger

This recipient of the Dirigo Award is a recognized contributor to the state economy.

The details

The Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1955, had previously been a finalist for this honor in 2025 and 2026. The evening also featured a live gubernatorial debate and saw The Geiger Family and Geiger receive the prestigious Dirigo Award.

The Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1955.
The organization was named an award finalist in 2025.
The award was presented at the annual meeting on October 1, 2026.
The Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber earned the 2026 Chamber of the Year title.

Market Landscape

The annual meeting marks a significant consolidation of influence, aligning local economic successes with the state's broader political discourse. This event positions the honored chambers as essential regional pillars within the competitive landscape of Maine business associations.

Local businesses supported by the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber may see increased visibility and resource access following this statewide recognition. Readers in these five communities can expect the organization to continue its advocacy role in the regional economy.

The takeaway

The selection of a long-standing regional chamber demonstrates the importance of consistent community development efforts. Local stakeholders often benefit from the heightened coordination and resource networking that these award-winning organizations provide.