Published: Sep 30, 2025
CEP News
Below you will find the latest news from the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership!
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Published: Jun 19, 2025
Ocala Metro CEP Interim CEO Earns National Workforce Development Certification
Ocala, FL (June 13, 2025) — The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP) proudly announces that Interim CEO Tamara Fleischhaker has successfully completed the Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals, a nationally recognized program jointly offered by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation and the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
Published: Jun 5, 2025
Ocala Metro CEP named Finalist for Chamber of the Year
Ocala, FL (June 5, 2025) — The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership has been named a finalist for the 2025 Chamber of the Year award, presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Va., with over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.
Published: May 8, 2025
Marion County Business Owners Invited to Groundbreaking Lender Matchmaking Event
Ocala, FL (May 8, 2025) — The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP) is proud to present the inaugural OMCF (Ocala Metro Catalyst Fund) Lender Matchmaking Event, a first-of-its-kind opportunity for Marion County entrepreneurs and small business owners to connect directly with a wide range traditional lenders, Credit Unions, CDC, CDFI and financial experts.Published: Apr 22, 2025
Ocala Metro CEP Announces Interim CEO
The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tamara Fleischhaker as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Fleischhaker brings a wealth of experience in leadership and institutional knowledge to this transitional role. Her expertise ensures continued stability and momentum as the CEP moves forward with its strategic initiatives.
Published: Apr 8, 2025
Marion County’s Top Young Entrepreneurs Shine at 11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition
Ocala, FL – The 11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition, held on April 3, 2025, at the Power Plant Business Incubator, celebrated the exceptional entrepreneurial talent of Marion County’s high school students. The event, organized by the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), provided an exciting opportunity for local students to pitch their innovative business ideas to a panel of esteemed judges and potential investors.
Published: Apr 2, 2025
11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition
The 11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition is set to highlight Marion County’s brightest high school entrepreneurs. On Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM, the Power Plant Business Incubator will host the event, providing a platform for local students to pitch their business ideas to a panel of local business leaders and potential investors.Published: Mar 7, 2025
Ocala Metro CEP Launches Search for New President & Chief Executive Officer
The Board of Directors of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP) has initiated a search for the organization’s next President & Chief Executive Officer, retaining Waverly Partners, an executive search firm with extensive experience in chambers and economic development organizations nationwide. Waverly Partners is also the preferred provider of executive search services for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.Published: Dec 19, 2024
Ocala Metro CEP Announces Departure of CEO, Appointment of Search Committee
The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP) announced today that its first CEO, Kevin T. Sheilley, CCE, has submitted his resignation after 12 years. It was simultaneously announced that he has been hired as the new President & CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce in Charleston, SC.Published: Dec 9, 2024
CEP Foundation Receives Grant from Papa John’s Foundation
The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership Foundation is excited to announce that it has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Papa John’s Foundation’s Building Community Fund. This funding will directly support the CEP’s Leadership Ocala Marion Youth (LOMY) program, helping to keep participation costs affordable while also providing scholarships to ensure access for all students.