Thursday, October 1, 2026
For nearly 15 years, the Hewlett-Woodmere Business Association has supported local businesses, providing a network that helps them thrive and connect with community residents.
The HWBA, a local chamber of commerce, was founded in 2011, when the Hewlett Business Association and the Woodmere Merchants Association merged. The group now supports nearly 300 members from Hewlett, Woodmere, and parts of Valley Stream and Gibson.
“We have a great network of local residents, business owners, school officials and some assistance from local representatives,” David Friedman, the president of the Hewlett Woodmere Business association said. “Some of them are new businesses and some of them are existing businesses that see the benefit of getting the publicity that we offer to promote their businesses.”
Friedman added that 20 new members joined the HWBA this year, and the group is always looking for more.
The association highlights local businesses through community events, including ribbon cuttings, meetings at restaurants, and school events where member businesses serve as sponsors.
“I think (joining HWBA) for the networking opportunities is why it’s so great,” Shoshanah Findling, one of the 20 new members who joined the HWBA this year, said. “Hewlett-Woodmere while it seems like a very small area, it’s very friendly and welcoming and the people are just lovely here and just happy to be a part of the community.”
One of HWBA’s largest annual events is the Arts Below Sunrise Street Fair. For the past 12 years, the group has partnered with the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools Endowment Fund to host the event. Stretching from the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library to Franklin Place in Woodmere, the fair brings together local vendors, musicians and businesses.
HWBA also supports Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, sponsoring events in art, music, robotics and athletics. The group also gives awards to Hewlett High School students for business and community service.
“We sponsor a Kids Night Out, that will have two hours for a couple to drop off their child, the parents can then go out and support a local business, that is what we encourage with that event,” Nicole Eliopoulos, an active member of the HWBA said. “Our business association really focuses on helping businesses succeed, it is needed because in this day and age, people are looking to shop online most of the time, they’re not looking to support local business.”
To become involved with the Hewlett Woodmere Business Association, visit HWBA.org.
