The head of the chamber of commerce chats with Mainebiz about how the organization and its “small but mighty” crew are helping Portland area businesses navigate the pandemic, stand up to racism, and come together in new ways.
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Quincy Hentzel, CEO of the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce, says 2020 has been a busy time, with virtual events and efforts to combat racial and social injustice in the business community. A few days before the chamber’s first post-summer Eggs & Issues forum, Mainebiz caught up with her to discuss events of recent months.
Mainebiz: How has the chamber’s work changed in the pandemic?
Quincy Hentzel: We continued to do what we always do — serve and support our members. But our focus completely shifted — to helping members navigate the pandemic, the impending shutdown, relief funds and ultimately reopening under new guidelines. We are a small but mighty team of eight, and you will be hard- pressed to find a more dedicated and driven crew. The chamber team rose to the challenge and I couldn’t be more proud of them.
MB: During this turbulent time for race relations, can you tell us about the chamber’s new initiatives?
QH: A few months ago, several of our members came together to move the conversation forward around racial and social justice and do their part as employers to bring about change. As a result, we launched our Standing in Solidarity commitment — businesses pledge to combat racism and discrimination and to advocate for racial and social equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We have over 350 businesses signed up to date — and we are busy lining up training and educational opportunities to help them fulfill their pledge, including a training with the Racial Equity Institute.
MB: Who should take the chamber’s 21-day racial equity challenge and why?
QH: Anyone should take the 21-day challenge if they have an interest in becoming more aware, compassionate, constructive and engaged in the quest for racial equity. It helps set aside dedicated time and space for each of us to build more effective social justice habits.
MB: In taking events remote what adjustments have you made?
QH: Overall, going virtual has been incredibly positive, as we have been able to reach so many more people, from all across the state. We have, however, really missed gathering in person. A big piece of what chambers do is bring people together and help foster old and build new relationships. We are trying to get creative as to how we can do that virtually. And in the meantime, we are really looking forward to when we can gather again — safely — in person.
MB: What’s your take on how Portland-area businesses are faring during COVID?
QH: I think it’s mixed. Some businesses were able to weather the pandemic by moving to remote work and maintaining business continuity reasonably well. Other businesses, such as those who make up our tourism and hospitality industry, have been severely impacted. Many were forced to shut down completely or pivot to limited service. Even as things begin to pick up around hospitality, it’s very difficult to make up for several months of no revenue. And with winter coming, the period to make up that shortfall is going to be short.
MB: Any new ventures that you’re particularly excited about?
QH: I am really excited about the Roux Institute. This has the potential to be a game-changer for our state. Its focus is on key disciplines such as artificial intelligence and computer and data sciences. And our local companies are at the table developing their future talent. It’s an incredible opportunity.
MB: To what extent do you work with counterparts at chambers in the state?
QH: All of the chambers in Maine have always had a wonderful collaborative relationship. The pandemic brought us together like nothing before. Between the Maine State Chamber and all of my local and regional counterparts across the state, we would connect one to two times a week to support each other, share information and best practices of how we were navigating this crazy time. My chamber counterparts were an important part of our (and my) survival the last six months.