RANGELEY — The Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce it has been awarded $303,150 through the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Catalyst Program to support the “Welcome to Rangeley Lakes Region” initiative. This significant three-year grant will enhance tourism, workforce development, and community engagement throughout Franklin County.
The funding, part of NBRC’s Spring 2025 grant awards totaling $53.9 million across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont, will enable the Chamber to implement several key initiatives designed to strengthen the region’s long-term vitality and economic appeal.
“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this funding from the Northern Border Regional Commission!” said Ally Kaiser, Executive Director at the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce. “This grant represents a tremendous opportunity to build upon our community’s strengths and create a lasting positive impact for our local businesses, residents, and visitors.”
Key Projects to be Funded:
Byway Ambassador Program – A signature initiative that will train local ambassadors to welcome visitors and share the unique character and attractions of the Rangeley Lakes region.
Marketing and Outreach Efforts – Strategic campaigns to promote the region’s natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and local businesses to attract visitors and potential residents.
Visitor Center Upgrades – Improvements to enhance the visitor experience and provide better resources for tourists exploring the area.
Relocation Resources – Programs designed to attract and retain residents, supporting workforce development and community growth.
Local Business Support – Various initiatives to strengthen and support the region’s business community.
The total project value is $389,047.94, with the Chamber providing matching funds to complement the federal investment. According to the NBRC, the initiative will promote sustainable tourism, job creation, and economic growth while strengthening the region’s long-term vitality and appeal. “By promoting sustainable tourism, job creation, and economic growth, this initiative strengthens the region’s long-term vitality and appeal,” noted the NBRC in announcing the award.
The Rangeley Lakes Region, known for its pristine lakes, outdoor recreation opportunities, and vibrant local businesses, will benefit from these coordinated efforts to enhance the visitor experience while supporting year-round economic activity.
The Northern Border Regional Commission’s Catalyst Program exists to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. This award is part of NBRC’s Spring 2025 round, which supported 69 projects across the four-state region.
“This funding will allow us to implement programs we’ve been planning and dreaming about,” added Lisa Mejorado. “We’re excited to strengthen our community connections, support our local businesses, and showcase everything that makes the Rangeley Lakes Region such a special place to visit and live!”
The Chamber plans to begin implementing these initiatives later this year and will provide regular updates to the community on project progress.
For more information about the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce and these upcoming initiatives, visit RangeleyMaine.com or contact the Visitor Center at [email protected].
About the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce
Since 1955, the Rangeley Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce has represented an area that spans five communities and more than 110 lakes and ponds. RLRCC supports over 150 businesses, sharing our love for this beautiful part of Maine that we call home. The Chamber’s primary goal is to promote the Rangeley Lakes Region year-round, attracting visitors and benefiting our member businesses economically.
About the Northern Border Regional Commission
Created in 2008, the Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership whose mission is to catalyze community vitality and economic prosperity in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont through flexible funding and strategic support.