Brooklyn, December 25, 2025
The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Meeting and Winter Gala at El Caribe Country Club, recognizing the achievements of local entrepreneurs and fostering community engagement. Over 500 attendees, including business owners and civic leaders, celebrated honorees such as Kathryn Wylde and Joy Paradise. The event underscored Brooklyn’s vibrant business landscape and strong community support.
Brooklyn Chamber Winter Gala Honors 2025 Entrepreneurs
Brooklyn, NY – On December 18, 2025, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Meeting and Winter Gala at El Caribe Country Club in Mill Basin, celebrating the borough’s vibrant business community. The event attracted over 500 attendees, including business owners, civic leaders, and creative entrepreneurs, highlighting the resilience and diversity of Brooklyn’s commercial landscape.
Event Highlights
The evening commenced with a bustling trade expo and cocktail reception, providing a platform for local businesses to network and showcase their offerings. This was followed by a formal seated dinner, a program, and dancing, fostering community engagement and collaboration among attendees.
Honorees of the Evening
The gala honored several distinguished individuals and businesses:
- Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City, was recognized for her significant contributions to the city’s business community. Wylde announced her upcoming retirement in 2026, marking the end of an era for the organization.
- Joy Paradise of Bangkok Bar, an authentic Thai restaurant in Industry City, was celebrated for her culinary excellence.
- Lorna Schwartz of Life Made Simpler, offering professional organizing services for individuals navigating loss, was acknowledged for her impactful services.
- Cory Lee of Skool Milk, a locally inspired apparel brand sold at the Brooklyn Made Store, was honored for his innovative approach to fashion.
- George Ortiz of La Puerta Roja in Flatbush, known for its comforting Latin cuisine, was recognized for his dedication to the culinary arts.
Community and Sponsor Support
The gala received support from a diverse array of sponsors spanning finance, healthcare, energy, and technology sectors, underscoring the broad institutional investment in Brooklyn’s economic future. This collaboration highlights the community’s commitment to fostering local businesses and promoting economic growth within the borough.
Background Context
The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, established in 1918, is the largest Chamber of Commerce in New York State. It serves as a vital business advocacy organization, offering a range of services including education and training, technical assistance, and economic development programs. The Annual Meeting and Winter Gala is a cornerstone event, bringing together stakeholders to celebrate achievements and discuss strategies for continued growth and collaboration within Brooklyn’s business community.
Conclusion
The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Winter Gala serves as a testament to the strength of Brooklyn’s entrepreneurial spirit and the invaluable contributions of local businesses. The honorees exemplify the innovation and resilience that define this borough’s business landscape, paving the way for future economic growth. As the community continues to support one another, it is essential for residents and local leaders to remain engaged and champion the success of Brooklyn’s thriving business ecosystem.
FAQ
- What is the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce?
- The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce is the largest Chamber of Commerce in New York State, established in 1918, serving as a vital business advocacy organization offering services such as education and training, technical assistance, and economic development programs.
- Who were the honorees at the 2025 Winter Gala?
- The honorees included Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City; Joy Paradise of Bangkok Bar; Lorna Schwartz of Life Made Simpler; Cory Lee of Skool Milk; and George Ortiz of La Puerta Roja in Flatbush.
- What is the significance of the Annual Meeting and Winter Gala?
- The Annual Meeting and Winter Gala is a cornerstone event for the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, bringing together business owners, civic leaders, and entrepreneurs to celebrate achievements, network, and discuss strategies for continued growth and collaboration within Brooklyn’s business community.
| Event | Date | Location | Attendees | Honorees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn Chamber Annual Meeting and Winter Gala | December 18, 2025 | El Caribe Country Club, Mill Basin, Brooklyn, NY | Over 500 business owners, civic leaders, and entrepreneurs | Kathryn Wylde, Joy Paradise, Lorna Schwartz, Cory Lee, George Ortiz |
Now Happening on X
- @brooklynpaper (Dec 24, 2025): The elegant evening drew more than 500 guests, including business owners, civic leaders, and creative entrepreneurs for a celebration of local enterprise and community impact. View on X
- @BrooklynChamber (Dec 23, 2025): Honoring Brooklyn’s Best! We were proud to celebrate those leading with purpose at our 2025 Annual Meeting & Winter Gala. A huge thank you to our honorees for their incredible service to our city. View on X
- @AlecBrookKrasny (Dec 19, 2025): I was honored to attend the 2025 Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Winter Gala yesterday. The evening was dedicated to the achievements of local businesses that are the economic engine of Brooklyn. Congratulations to the amazing honorees. View on X
- @NYBizJournal (Dec 19, 2025): Learn more about this year’s honorees — in their own words. View on X
- @EconClubNY (Dec 18, 2025): Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 Innovation and Social Impact Challenge! This annual challenge presents an exclusive opportunity for the 2025 ECNY Fellows, aligning with our mission to be a catalyst for thought and innovation in the business and economic landscape. View on X
- @ZohranKMamdani (Nov 19, 2025): Small businesses power this city. We’re cutting red tape and expanding real, one-on-one support so working-class entrepreneurs, immigrants, and longtime New Yorkers can open and grow the businesses they’ve dreamed of. View on X
- @GovKathyHochul (Dec 7, 2025): As the daughter of a small business owner, I know the long hours, sacrifice, and determination it takes to keep a business going. Shop local this holiday season and lift up the neighborhood businesses that help New York thrive! View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Flushing Bank Expands in Chinatown: A Boost for Local Businesses
Thanksgiving Cocktail Reception Supports Mission Society
New York City to Host Inaugural Business & Peace Gala
Discover the New York Sign Museum in Brooklyn
New York City’s Real Estate Market on the Rise
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
