BETHEL — The National and Regional Economic Outlook 2026 will be held Wednesday, February 25, 4 pm at Greenwood Features, 269 Greenwood Avenue in Bethel. This event offers timely insight into economic trends shaping the year ahead and is essential for business owners, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

The featured speaker at the event is Kartik Athreya, director of research and head of the Research and Statistics Group at Federal Reserve Bank of New York, who will present the latest national and regional economic trends and what they mean for local businesses and communities.

Event highlights include:

*Key Economic Presentation: Insightful forecast on national and regional economic conditions delivered by Kartik Athreya.

*Interactive Q&A: Engage with the speaker following the presentation.

*Networking & Resources: Representatives from Bethel Chamber of Commerce, SBA, SBDC, SCORE, and WDBC will be available with resources and business support information.

*Leadership Insight Giveaway: One attendee will be selected to receive a one-on-one Leadership Insight Session with a DISC Behavioral Profile from Focal Point Consulting ($500 value).

This event is for business owners and executives; economic, workforce, and community development professionals; public policymakers and government officials; investors, entrepreneurs, and local advocates; and anyone interested in key economic trends for 2026.

Janice Chrzescijanek, director of the Office of Economic Development in Bethel, said, “We’re excited to bring together business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders to explore the economic forces that will define 2026. With expert analysis from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and valuable local resources available to attendees, this event will equip our local communities with the insights needed to succeed in a changing economic landscape.”

Those who are interested in the event can purchase tickets now by visiting eventbrite.com and searching “National and Regional Economic Outlook 2026.” Tickets are $28.52.

For more information, please contact Chrzescijanek by calling 203-794-8521, or emailing eddirector@bethel-ct.gov.

Greater Danbury Chamber Of Commerce Economic Forecast

Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce (GDCC) is also hosting an economic forecast for this year. GDCC’s event is scheduled for Friday, February 20, 7:30-9 am, at Anthony’s Lake Club, 10 Colombus Avenue, Danbury.

Curtis Dubay, chief economist at the US Chamber of Commerce, will present the forecast, with topics focused on key economic indicators, the impact of public policy on growth, and how national and global trends will influence strategic planning, investment, and operations here in Connecticut.

Those who are interested in attending can register now. Tickets for members are $55 and tickets for nonmembers are $65. Go to danburychamber.com, click on the “Events Calendar” page, and find the GDCC Economic Forecast 2026 listed on February 20.