Over the past year, business development in Venango County has surged, driven by innovation and collaboration across industries. The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce has been at the forefront of these efforts, championing initiatives that strengthen the local economy and support its diverse membership. In 2024, the Chamber remained steadfast in its mission to connect, grow and inspire businesses throughout the region.
Advancing economic development
One notable milestone for the Chamber was securing a nearly $25,000 grant for a feasibility study of Justus Park, a significant step toward enhancing the community’s recreational and cultural assets. This initiative underscores the Chamber’s commitment to fostering environments that benefit businesses and residents alike.
Celebrating community events
The Chamber’s signature events in 2024 — as well as their annual dinner this month — highlighted the vibrancy and resilience of the region:
• Annual Dinner: To be held at Cross Creek Resort, the dinner will honor Cindy Urban as the 2024 Citizen of the Year, Core Goods as 2024 Business of the Year and Community Services of Venango County as 2024 Partner in Business of the Year. The dinner, set for Feb. 19, continues the tradition of celebrating excellence.
• Annual Golf Outing: A sold-out success at Wanango Golf Club, the 2024 outing featured a trade show, outdoor steak dinner and engaging prize games. This year’s event is scheduled for June 26.
• Oil Heritage Festival: Themed “Back to the Future,” the 2024 festival celebrated the region’s rich history with concerts, parades and community gatherings. Planning is underway for the 2025 festival, with evening concerts returning to their traditional location of Justus Park and the parade on West First Street and across the bridge to Seneca Street.
• Cranberry Festival: Partnering with the Cranberry Small Business Association who added additional new activities around the Saturday festival, which offers craft and vendor shows, a car show, live music and free children’s activities. Mark calendars for the 2025 festival on Sept. 20.
• Oil Heritage Energy Security Conference: Held at Drake Well Museum, this October event brought together experts to discuss the future of energy while celebrating the region’s pivotal role in the industry’s history.
Leadership and workforce development
Preparing the next generation of leaders and workforce remains a cornerstone of the Chamber’s efforts:
• FLEX (Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange): In 2024, FLEX added 33 new members and hosted numerous events to engage young professionals. The group welcomes a dynamic leadership team for 2025, including officers Devin Zagar – President and Cassady Calder – Vice President/Secretary.
• Leadership Venango: This nine-month program graduated 12 participants in 2024 and welcomed a 16-member class for 2025. Monthly sessions tackle topics like business development and community leadership.
• VenangoREADY: The Chamber’s workforce initiative connected over 65 educators with 40 business representatives during its annual Educator Expo. VenangoREADY graduated 82 students across six school districts, equipping them with essential career skills. The Chamber also expanded its career resources, publishing a monthly education email to connect educators and employers, distributing job posters and maintaining a job shadow guide to bridge the gap between students and local employers.
Amplifying community pride
The Chamber’s Be Here initiative continues to shine a spotlight on the region’s unique qualities, promoting Venango County as a great place to live, work and play. Through social media, beherevenango.org, and nearly 100 ambassadors, Be Here fosters a positive narrative about the area. Additionally, the Heart & Soul initiative, launched in partnership with Pennsylvania Humanities, empowers communities to share their stories and shape their futures.
Strengthening Chamber operations
The Chamber team remains dedicated to serving its members with innovation and personalized support. The team includes President Susan Williams, Executive Assistant Tessa Byham, Be Here Program Manager Ashley Smith and Membership and Education Manager Kat Thompson. The addition of a Workforce & Education Coordinator in 2025 will further strengthen their initiatives and impact.
President Susan Williams reflects, “Building strong relationships is at the core of our work. By understanding the needs of our members, we’re able to deliver impactful programs and services.”
Serving as 2025 Chamber officers are Dan Flaherty — Oil Region Library Association (Chair), Ryan Sweeny — Webco Industries (Vice Chair), Kate Whitling — Schake Industries (Secretary), and Ann Richar — Richar, Trinch & Co. PC (Treasurer). A full list of the Board of Directors is available at venangochamber.org/our-team.
Stay connected
The Chamber keeps the community informed through its monthly VenangoWorks! newsletter, featuring member updates, business tips and young professional highlights. News and resources are also available on the Chamber’s website and social media channels.
The Venango Area Chamber of Commerce invites businesses, organizations and individuals to join its mission of strengthening the region. Visit venangochamber.org, email chamber@venangochamber.org or call 814-676-8521 to learn more.
Upcoming events include: Annual Dinner: Feb. 19; VenangoREADY Educator Expo: April 10; Oil Heritage Festival: July 23-27; and Cranberry Festival: Sept. 20.
