Chamber and DVBA celebrate Small Business Month

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VICTORIA, BC – We often hear small businesses called the backbone of a community. The fact is there is nothing small about the group of businesses that employ more than half of all British Columbians. When you shop at a locally owned business, you are investing in the quality of life of your hometown. The dollars that go to local businesses recirculate in the community about 4.6 times more than the same money spent at corporations that have head offices far away or even in other countries.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and heartbeat of our downtown,” Downtown Victoria Business Association Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bray said. “Small Business Month provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the unique, vibrant and creative businesses that make up our downtown small business community.”

“Small business month is an important time to reflect on the importance of and to double down on supporting our amazing small businesses,” Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps said. “Our small businesses are a key character-defining feature of our downtown and our city. This month and always I encourage residents to pop in and visit them in person and resist the temptation of the online non-local alternative.”

Throughout October, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating Small Business Month, sponsored by Grant Thornton.

“We really experienced how important it is to spend locally over the last two years. Our support of businesses operated by friends and neighbours made a real difference in helping many make it through challenging times,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “This October, I encourage everyone to express their support by doing business locally — and by expressing gratitude to business owners for all they do to support our community.”

To learn more about the events and activities The Chamber has planned for Small Business Month, go to victoriachamber.ca.

“Small businesses empower our community by bringing people together, creating jobs, and helping our economy thrive,” Grant Thornton LLP partner Kyman Chan said, noting his firm is helping small businesses weather the current inflationary storm and plan for future growth. “We’re proud to support the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and businesses within the region during Small Business Month, and beyond.”

Every year, the DVBA highlights approximately 30 small businesses by introducing them on social media and writing dedicated blog posts. Visit dvba.ca/smallbusinessmonth to meet some hardworking business owners within downtown Victoria’s small business community.
 
About Downtown Victoria Business Association
The Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) focuses on nurturing and promoting the vitality and vibrancy of downtown Victoria and its business community. Through advocacy, marketing, events, and the fantastic Clean Team, the DVBA supports downtown businesses and encourages Victorians to experience Victoria’s beautiful core area. Visit dvba.ca to learn more.
 
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and
great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca.
 
Media Contacts: 
Jim Zeeben, Communications and Project Manager 
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 
250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca
 
Jeff Bray, Chief Executive Officer
Downtown Victoria Business Association
250-386-2239 | jeff@downtownvictoria.ca

Open letter to Premier Horgan on on behalf of BC hospitality, tourism, accommodation, liquor and cannabis retail businesses

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The Honourable John Horgan
Premier & President of the Executive Council
Legislative Assembly of B.C.
PO Box 9041 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, B.C., V8W 9E1
Ms. Stephanie Smith
President, BCGEU
4911 Canada Way
Burnaby, B.C., V5G 3W3
 
August 24, 2022
 
Re: Open letter on behalf of B.C. hospitality, tourism, accommodation, liquor and cannabis retail businesses
 
Dear Premier Horgan and Ms. Smith,
As the industry associations and stakeholder groups representing British Columbia’s hospitality, liquor, tourism, accommodation, and cannabis retail businesses, we are relieved to hear that the B.C. Government and the B.C. General Employees Union (BCGEU) will return to the bargaining table to negotiate an end to this damaging strike. We urge you to find a resolution quickly.
Since the BCGEU commenced job action on Aug. 15, B.C.’s hospitality, liquor, and cannabis businesses have already begun to experience product shortages and severe impacts on our revenue. We have been cut off from vital inventory that we need to maintain the viability of our businesses and the jobs we create. Should this strike continue, our industries will unfairly bear the brunt of serious economic consequences including business closures and layoffs, cancelled events such as concerts and weddings, loss of consumer confidence, and damage to B.C.’s reputation among tourists and consumers. 
We cannot afford for this strike to continue.
Holding our sector hostage with your labour dispute is irresponsible and deeply insulting to the thousands of small businesses and almost 200,000 workers who are still struggling to recover financially from the damage of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Our industries are comprised of thousands of small business owners who invest their savings, sweat, and tears into this sector, and provide employment for hundreds of thousands of British Columbians, many of them young and at the start of their careers.
As you know, B.C.’s hospitality and tourism industries were devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Up until 2020, B.C.’s hospitality and tourism sector was growing faster than the provincial economy as a whole, with more than $22.3 billion in revenue annually, and supporting more than 250,000 jobs. But two years of restrictive Public Health orders, mandated closures, and capacity limits caused losses in business, revenue, and workforce, and left us with high debt loads and depleted bank accounts. Approximately 20 per cent of businesses in our sector did not survive the pandemic. The rest are still struggling to recover.
We support the right of government employees to bargain collectively, but the decision by the BCGEU to target liquor distribution centres drags the province’s hospitality, tourism, liquor and cannabis industries into a dispute that has nothing to do with us, and deals yet another crushing blow when we’re only just getting back on our feet.
On behalf of our collective memberships, we will not accept becoming collateral damage in your labour dispute. As both parties return to the negotiating table, we ask you to put the interests of British Columbia first, and resolve your differences quickly to prevent further losses and impacts to the hospitality and tourism sector.
We have supported and cared for British Columbians throughout the global pandemic. Please do the same for us.
 
Sincerely,

Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC)
BC Craft Brewers Guild
BC Craft Ciders
BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association
Beer Canada
British Columbia Hotel Association
Craft Distiller’s Guild of BC
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
IVSA Import Vintners & Spirits Association
New Wave Wine Society
Restaurants Canada
Rural Liquor Store Advisor Society
Spirits Canada
Surrey Board of Trade
Tourism Industry Association of BC
Vancouver Hotel Association
Wine Growers British Columbia

Donation over $1,000 to The Mustard Seed marks end of Picnics and Patios Campaign

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VICTORIA, B.C. – Overjoyed restaurant, pub, and bar patrons were the lucky recipients of free meals last month, thanks to the Picnics and Patios Campaign.

Led by community partners BC Restaurant and Food Services Association – Victoria Chapter, Destination Greater Victoria, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Victoria Business Association, City of Victoria, Used.ca and Sysco, the Picnics and Patios Campaign took place in Greater Victoria restaurants, pubs, and bars every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in June when representatives from these community partners would surprise customers by paying for their bill.

It was important the community partners help those who cannot afford to dine out. In this spirit, they are pleased to donate over $1,000 to The Mustard Seed.

This summer, these restaurant, pub, and bar partner organizations are asking Greater Victorians and those visiting Greater Victoria to show support for the hospitality industry. Not only are restaurants, pubs, and bars staples in the Greater Victoria community, but they are also run by friends, families, and neighbours. Next time you are looking for a tasty way to support local businesses, consider one of these amazing establishments in Greater Victoria.

Quotes:
“It was a pleasure to recreate the Picnics and Patios Campaign again this year, and work with Greater Victoria community partners on an outstanding promotion,” said Ian Tostenson, President and CEO – BC Restaurant and Food Services Association (BCRFA). “The BCRFA is continually looking at ways promote the amazing work of BC’s restaurant, pubs, and bars. Working collaboratively with Greater Victoria organizations on the Picnics and Patios Campaign meant we could showcase great establishments and hopefully bring more people out for a meal or a drink.”

“The spring and summer months are an excellent time to enjoy Greater Victoria’s restaurant offerings,” said Paul Nursey, CEO – Destination Greater Victoria. “The Picnics and Patios Campaign is a wonderful way to welcome visitors back in town following the challenges of 2020 and 2021. Congratulations to everyone on a fantastic promotion. The Mustard Seed is a valued community organization as well. It’s great we can give back and support their worthy causes.”

“Small businesses – and especially restaurants, pubs, and bars – are in many ways the heart of our
community,” said Bruce Williams, CEO – The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber is proud of its support of the Picnics and Patios Campaign. It was a terrific way to connect with our members, as well as residents and visitors. I would also like to thank our sponsors Used.ca and Sysco for helping make the Picnics and Patios Campaign possible again this year.”

“There are a multitude of restaurants, pubs, and bars in the Greater Victoria downtown core. Picnics and Patios highlights the variety of culinary options in the area we represent,” said Jeff Bray, Executive Director – Downtown Victoria Business Association. “The Picnics and Patios Campaign also shows how friendly and welcoming our community can be. Congratulations to everyone involved on another successful Picnics and Patios Campaign.”“Victoria is known for its restaurants, pubs, and bars. These establishments not only play a vital role in our tourism sector but are places the community gathers as well,” said Mayor Lisa Helps, City of Victoria.

“I know restaurant, pub, and bar owners have had a challenging time during the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Victoria supported them through these challenges, and we are proud to continue to support the sector through initiatives such as the Picnics and Patios Campaign.”

For more information, please check out the Picnics and Patios Campaign website.

Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Kinetic Construction, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, RBC, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at VictoriaChamber.ca.

Destination Greater Victoria
Destination Greater Victoria (Greater Victoria Visitors and Convention Bureau) is our region’s official, not-for-profit destination marketing organization working in partnership with nearly 1,000 businesses and municipalities in Greater Victoria.

Media Contacts:

Jim Zeeben
Communications and Project Manager, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Cell: 250-360-3471
communications@victoriachamber.ca

Matthew Holme
Manager of Corporate Communications and Destination Management,
Destination Greater Victoria
Cell: 778-871-2545
matthew.holme@tourismvictoria.com

BC Government’s Lobbyists Act Causes Red Tape, Muffles Voice of Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce

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The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Surrey Board of Trade, Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce sent a letter to Attorney General David Eby requesting that the Board of Trade/Chamber of Commerce industry be exempt from the BC Lobbyists Transparency Act.

“This is yet another request to the BC Government by the board of trade/chamber of commerce industry to remove the red tape of the Lobbyists Transparency Act, which makes doing our job almost impossible. The mandate and purpose of boards of trade and chambers of commerce is to instigate change at all levels of government. As we have ongoing, sometimes daily, conversations with political representatives to help business, the burden of reporting with the new lobbying rules increases our administrative burden. This is red tape that is not needed now, and not needed in the future for our industry.”
Anita Huberman, President & CEO, Surrey Board of Trade.

“Chambers of commerce and boards of trade are embedded in the fabric of our communities. Our mandate is to give voice to business. In healthy communities, the public sector and private sector co-exist in a balance that creates employment and healthy economies and enables sound policies. This isn’t new, but it is being threatened by onerous requirements that miss their target. We are putting historic relationships at risk with this paternalistic red tape that is effectively censuring important conversations.”
Bruce Williams, CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
 
“Chambers of Commerce are organizations that are vital to the collective well-being of the business community, and the public at large. The lobbyist registry discourages our participation due to the burden of the reporting requirements which many of us simply don’t have the capacity to manage. We ask that the government recognize the importance of our role and set up systems that encourage, rather than discourage, valuable input from organizations like ourselves.”
Bill Collette, CEO, Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce
 
“We, the boards of trade and chambers of commerce, are the intersection point between businesses, all four levels of government, education institutions, community organizations, the greater community and First Nations — providing a platform and a voice for those who may not otherwise have either. The current level of red tape is completely detrimental. It inhibits the voices that need to be heard to ensure effective governance by our elected leaders.”
Mary Ruth Snyder, Executive Director, Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce

In 2020, significant changes to BC’s lobbyist registration regime came into effect. These latest reforms were statutory and regulatory. Statutory, because the implementation of the Lobbyists Registration Amendment Act, 2018 will transform the Lobbyists Registration Act into the Lobbyists Transparency Act. Regulatory, because the Lobbyists Transparency Regulation will replace the Lobbyists Registration Regulation.

WHAT THIS MEANS: If you communicate with BC government officials as part of your business or organization, the revised rules apply. Under the new rules, violations could result in monetary penalties of up to $25,000 and a ban on lobbying of up to two years.
We asked the Ministry to consider four ways to improve the Lobbyists Transparency Act 2020:

  1.      Update the definition of “small organization” under the Lobbyists Transparency Act 2020 from six employees or less to 25 employees or less.
  2.      Amend the Act to provide full exemption for all “small organizations,” regardless of membership-base composition or issues-based organization.
  3.      Alleviate the degree of obligation under the Act for organizations if they are sector or cross sector-based, rather than singularly company focused by:
    1.      Only requiring the registration of an actual act of lobbying (letter, meeting, policy decision) upon completion, increasing the 50-hour threshold to 200 for charities and not- for-profits, and eliminating the requirement for chambers of commerce and boards of trade altogether;
    2.      Establishing a more streamlined lobbying tracking report form and process; and,
    3.       Removing accumulated lobbying reporting requirements when working with other organizations.
  4.      Provide greater resources for education and training for the not-for-profit sector, small organizations and chambers/boards of trade to understand the new Act and comply, including how to fulfill reporting requirements.

 
Read the letter here: Letter: Re: Exempting Chambers and Boards of Trade from BC Lobbyists Transparency Act
 
Bruce Williams
CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
 
Anita Huberman
President & CEO Surrey Board of Trade
 
Bill Collette
CEO, Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce
 
Mary Ruth Snyder
Executive Director, Campbell River and District Chamber of Commerce
 
 
MEDIA CONTACT: Jim Zeeben
Communications and Project Manager, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
250-360-3471 communications@victoriachamber.ca
 
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: https://victoriachamber.ca/

Popular Greater Victoria Picnics and Patios Campaign returns June 7 – 29

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VICTORIA, B.C. – With summer around the corner, what better way to enjoy the sunshine with friends and family than on the patio of a Greater Victoria restaurant, pub or bar? How about enjoying your meal for free when the Picnics and Patios campaign returns June 7!
 
BC Restaurant and Food Services Association, Destination Greater Victoria, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Victoria Business Association, City of Victoria, Used.ca and Sysco are collaborating to bring back Picnics and Patios. For the month of June from Tuesday to Thursday, representatives from these participating community organizations and regional personalities will visit restaurants, pubs and bars across Greater Victoria, surprising lucky patrons by paying for their meal. The whole region is invited to get involved and celebrate local cuisine with social media posts leading to great weekly prizes. The inaugural campaign was held in 2021 and it was an amazing success.
 
These restaurant partner organizations are asking locals and visitors to show support for Greater Victoria’s hospitality industry as we enjoy delicious food and drinks across the region. These businesses are pillars in our community, and are run by friends, families, and neighbours. Next time you are looking for a tasty way to support local businesses, consider one of the many incredible restaurants in Greater Victoria.
 
Quotes
“Following two years of reduced visitation from COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, Greater Victoria’s visitor economy is experiencing a strong recovery in 2022. We need to maintain this momentum, and the Picnics and Patios Campaign is a great way to feature Destination Greater Victoria’s restaurant members – the chefs, servers, and small businesses in our community. Victoria also has more restaurants per capita than any other city in Canada and it is a major draw for visitation to the destination.” Paul Nursey, CEO – Destination Greater Victoria
 
“Last year’s Picnics and Patios Campaign was a great promotion at a very difficult time for many small businesses in our community. It was such as success that we heard many of these same businesses wanted to bring it back again this year. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is a strong supporter of restaurants, pubs and bars and the jobs they generate in our community. Picnics and Patios is a fun way to showcase these establishments and encourage visitors and residents to support our local entrepreneurs.” Bruce Williams, CEO – The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
 
“Downtown Victoria is the heart of activity in our region, and it contains many of the best and most popular culinary establishments in Greater Victoria. We want to encourage people to patronize downtown Victoria businesses. Supporting the Picnics and Patios Campaign was an easy decision. It creates a positive experience for people in downtown Victoria and builds on the successful contest we had last year.” Jeff Bray, Executive Director – Downtown Victoria Business Association
 
“The Greater Victoria culinary scene is known for its service and hospitality. The Picnics and Patios Campaign promotes these attributes. It conveys a welcoming atmosphere to anyone who is interested in one of our restaurants, pubs and bars. The reactions when diners realize their meal will be covered is priceless as well. It is gratifying to make customers happy at any time, but the Picnics and Patios Contest does this in a very special way.” Ian Tostenson, President & CEO – BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association
 
For more information, please check out the Picnics and Patios website here:
https://victoriachamber.ca/picnics-and-patios.html
 
“The Picnics and Patios Campaign was a hit in 2021. It was fun to accompany program sponsors to local patios in downtown Victoria and see the delight on people’s faces as they were surprised and treated to a meal on the spot. Picnics and Patios will create a great buzz again this summer and will continue to celebrate and support our amazing and hard-working restauranteurs as they continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.” Mayor Lisa Helps – City of Victoria
 
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: https://victoriachamber.ca/
 
Destination Greater Victoria (Greater Victoria Visitors and Convention Bureau) is our region’s official, not-for-profit destination marketing organization working in partnership with nearly 1,000 businesses and municipalities in Greater Victoria.
 
 
MEDIA CONTACT: Matthew Holme
Manager of Corporate Communications and Destination Management, Destination Greater Victoria
Cell: 778-871-2545
matthew.holme@tourismvictoria.com
 
MEDIA CONTACT: Jim Zeeben
Communications and Project Manager, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Call: 250-360-3471
communications@victoriachamber.ca

Chamber announces 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards winners

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VICTORIA, BC – The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the winners of the 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards. 

The winners, listed below, distinguished themselves across 14 Business Award categories, including outstanding customer service, sustainable business practices, young entrepreneurship and business leadership.   

“It was an inspiring evening with more than 300 members of our business community sharing stories of success,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “The winners and the finalists have gone above and beyond and everyone in Greater Victoria will benefit from the work done to show the path forward as our region’s economic recovery continues.”

The Chamber’s 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards shine a light on hard-working businesses, businesspeople and community leaders. Finalists were chosen by an independent panel of prominent business leaders who served as judges. 

The Chamber previously announced that Josh Handysides, CAO of Malahat Nation, will receive the Chamber’s Award of Distinction, while Mary Lou Newbold, CEO of Mayfair Optometric Clinic, is The Chamber’s 2022 Member of the Year. 

The Award of Distinction is in recognition of the positive influence the honouree has had on the economy, business, and the overall community, signifying the achievement, resourcefulness and determination they have shown. The Chamber Member of the Year award recognizes an engaged, passionate, and committed individual who has taken an active role with the Chamber Board or a committee, fosters relationships with the community and advocates on behalf of business. 

The Chamber’s 2022 Business Awards were presented at a gala evening on Saturday, May 7 at the Fairmont Empress. An awards show is also being broadcast on CHEK TV at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 8.
 
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Big Wheel Burger, BC Ferries, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at victoriachamber.ca.  
 
Media Contact: 
Jim Zeeben, Communications and Project Manager 
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 
250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca
 

2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards Finalists and Winners
 
Business of the Year (1-10 Employees)

Sponsored by:  City of Victoria
 
​Business of the Year (11-39 Employees) 

Sponsored by:  Worldline
 
Business of the Year (40+ Employees)

Sponsored by:  Chard Development​​
 
Business Person of the Year

Sponsored by:  Coast Capital Savings​
 
Community Builder

Sponsored by:  Canadian Tire
 
Emerging Business Person of the Year

Sponsored by:  Royal Roads University
 
Innovation

Sponsored by:   Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, University of Victoria
 
New Business

Sponsored by:  Futurpreneur 
 
​Non-Profit of the Year

Sponsored by:  Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island
 
​Outstanding Customer Service

Sponsored by: ​ Innov8 Digital Solutions Inc.
 
Outstanding Workplace of the Year

Sponsored by:  Ralmax Group of Companies
 
Sustainable Business Practices

Sponsored by:  Camosun College
 
Chamber Award of Distinction

Sponsored by:  Times Colonist
 
Chamber Member of the Year

Sponsored by:  Air Canada

Hiring Day connects UVic students with region’s employers

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VICTORIA, BC – Finding and keeping workers starts with connections. On March 28, the University of Victoria, the UVic Students’ Society and the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce are hosting Hiring Day to help thousands of students apply for work with more than 60 employers in the region.

  • What: Hiring Day 2022
  • When: March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Where: Michèle Pujol Room, Student Union Building, University of Victoria

About two-thirds of all students at UVic typically work while undertaking their studies. This has traditionally been a key addition to Greater Victoria’s labour force, especially as the region has one of the highest employment rates in the country. The Chamber continues to advocate for initiatives and investments that help employers attract and retain the workforce needed for the regional economy to reach its potential. 

At Hiring Day, 63 employers have tables set up to welcome students looking for employment opportunities. Organizations range from financial institutions to tourism and hospitality businesses. While some employers might collect resumes, others plan to interview and potentially hire on the spot.

Quotes:
“After two years of pandemic interruptions, we look forward to kick starting the relationship between businesses and university students. Having a job helps with the cost of education and offers a bit of an outlet away from the pressure of school,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “Victoria has great employers in every sector, and they need workers to fill seasonal and part-time jobs as well as full-time positions.”

“UVic supports students through every stage of their experience, including connecting their studies and interest to work opportunities,” says Andrea Giles, Executive Director of UVic’s Co-operative Education Program and Career Services. ”We are proud to have a long-standing partnership with The Chamber — students can make a real impact in workplaces across the region, and they are key to supporting the economic recovery in this community. This type of hiring event helps facilitate these important connections.”

“We’re proud to host this event for all UVic students in partnership with the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and UVic offices,” said Mariel Hernández, UVSS Director of Student Affairs. “We’re excited to connect students with job prospects that help support their studies and flourishing careers. We know how talented and hardworking UVic students are; local businesses will benefit from what students have to offer.”

“Discover your passions, grow your skills and receive mentorship every step of the way,” said Sophia Pugh, District Vice President, Vancouver Island, Scotiabank “At Scotiabank, we provide our early talent with vast opportunities for every future. Learn more at Scotiabank.com/careers. We look forward to meeting you!”

“Development and construction provide excellent opportunities for students and recent graduates,” Mike Geric Construction COO Niall Paltiel said. “Our organization strives to create inclusive workplaces that offer competitive wages and flexibility for students who want to earn money while going to school, or who are looking to get started on a rewarding career in the industry.”

“RBC values providing job opportunities for students; we encourage diverse perspectives and live it by fostering a culture of innovation that believes how we do business is just as important as the business we do,” said Annette Sabourin, RBC’s Regional Vice President Vancouver Island. “Our culture is built on strong values of integrity, inclusiveness, agility and collaboration — career experience founded on these core principals will remain relevant and powerful throughout one’s career.”
 
About the University of Victoria
UVic is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities, offering life-changing, hands-on learning experiences to more than 21,000 students on the edge of the spectacular BC coast. As a hub of transformational research, UVic faculty, staff and students make a critical difference on issues that matter to people, places and the planet. UVic consistently publishes a higher proportion of research based on international collaborations than any other university in North America, and our community and organizational partnerships play a key role in generating vital impact, from scientific and business breakthroughs to achievements in culture and creativity. Find out more at uvic.ca. Territory acknowledgement

About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at https://victoriachamber.ca.  
 
Media Contacts:
Michelle Oussoren
Stakeholder Communications Officer
University Communications + Marketing
University of Victoria
250-217-6473 
lmoussoren@uvic.ca
 
Jim Zeeben                                                                 
Communications and Project Manager
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
250 360-3471
communications@victoriachamber.ca

Chamber statement on lifting of mask mandate

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VICTORIA, BC – The BC Government has announced that as of midnight tonight, masks will no longer be required in low-risk public indoor spaces. Vaccine cards will no longer be required while entering certain businesses as of April 8.

The Chamber will continue to work with and listen to the business community to advocate on behalf of our members. We applaud our health authorities for keeping us safe and welcome the news that it is time to lift restrictions. With the lifting of restrictions, The Chamber will adapt our requirements for in-person events, starting with our Member Networking Breakfast on March 24 and the 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards on May 7.

“I look forward to seeing unmasked smiling faces, and I think we need to recognize that one of the major reasons we are at this stage is thanks to the incredible efforts of businesses,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “They’ve gone above and beyond to keep customers and staff safe, allowing our health care system to stay sustainable while finding innovative ways to continue providing goods and services.”

Lifting the mask and vaccine mandates will help many businesses who abided by the spirit of the rules but faced challenges due to their workplace’s physical locations or staffing constraints.

“Our region is safer today because we embraced health science and a high percentage of our population is immunized,” Williams said. “Those efforts will now allow us the freedom to relax and enjoy each other’s company as we prepare for an incredible spring and summer.”
 
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Kinetic Construction, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at victoriachamber.ca.  
 
Media Contact:
Jim Zeeben                                                                 
Communications and Project Manager
250 360-3471
communications@victoriachamber.ca

BC Budget 2022 more compass than roadmap for economic recovery

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VICTORIA, B.C. – The provincial government unveiled its 2022 budget today with a focus on child care, and investments to make communities safer from toxic drugs and devastating climate events. Other highlights include a renewed commitment to act on Indigenous reconciliation and high-level support for businesses that still face challenges due to the uneven economic recovery from the pandemic.

B.C. Minister of Finance Selina Robinson, who will meet with Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce members tomorrow, was clear that the province is expecting economic growth even as the provincial debt increases. The $71 billion budget for 2022/23 is expected to have a deficit of $5.5 billion, followed by a $4.2 billion deficit in 2023/24. Robinson told reporters that the province needs to rebuild damaged transportation infrastructure so it can withstand future climate events.

“Today’s budget provided more of a compass than a roadmap for businesses in terms of our ongoing economic recovery. But we’re happy the province is not looking to increase taxes to cover its shortfalls,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “There was some good high-level news about infrastructure investments and complex care for our region, and we hope to hear details soon.”

Greater Victoria is getting two complex care facilities, though specific locations were not announced. The budget also includes $84 million over three years for planning and capital funding for upgrading the Belleville Terminal.

The tourism sector has been allocated $25 million to help with recovery efforts, though a further $915 million was set aside for potential pandemic-related expenses, including health care costs or economic recovery funding.

The budget did not offer any insight into the province’s plan to link the minimum wage to the rate of inflation. Staff from the health and finance ministries told The Chamber that details are still being worked out and will be made public in the coming months. There was also no mention of the newly mandated five-days of paid sick leave, or softening of the Employer Health Tax, which took $207 million more than anticipated from B.C. employers last year.

Greater Victoria is also inline for numerous “bus and shoulder” expansions to improve regional transit, and money has been earmarked for the transit hub at Uptown in Saanich.

“The Chamber has long advocated for child care as an investment in our economy, and we applaud the province’s commitment to adding 40,000 new spaces within seven years. We also are encouraged by some of the steps to address our lack of housing supply,” Williams said. “I look forward to speaking with Minister Robinson tomorrow for more details on these and other plans.”
 
To arrange an interview with The Chamber, or to register as media for tomorrow’s event with Minister Robinson, email communications@victoriachamber.ca.
 
Conversation with Hon. Selina Robinson, Minister of Finance  

  • Wednesday, Feb. 23, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

Media Contact:
Jim Zeeben, Communications and Project Manager 
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 
250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca
 
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Kinetic Construction, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at victoriachamber.ca.

Chamber announces 2022 Business Awards finalists

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VICTORIA, BC – To celebrate another year of businesses rising to meet every challenge, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the finalists for The Chamber’s 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards. 

The finalists, listed below, have distinguished themselves across 14 Business Award categories, including excellent customer service, sustainable business practices, young entrepreneurship and business leadership.   

The Chamber’s 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards shine a light on hard-working businesses, businesspeople and community leaders. Finalists were chosen by an independent panel of prominent business leaders who served as judges. 

“We’re proud to provide some positive news that gives the business community a welcome boost right now,” said Bruce Williams, CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. “The finalists announced today are a true inspiration to all businesses looking to grow and prosper in the months and years ahead. To be named a finalist means they have gone above and beyond as an exceptional organization or entrepreneur.” 

The Chamber previously announced that Josh Handysides will receive the Chamber’s Award of Distinction, while Mary Lou Newbold is The Chamber’s 2022 Member of the Year. 

The Award of Distinction is in recognition of the positive influence the honouree has had on the economy, business, and the overall community, signifying the achievement, resourcefulness and determination they have shown. The Chamber Member of the Year award recognizes an engaged, passionate, and committed individual who has taken an active role with the Chamber Board or a committee, fosters relationships with the community and advocates on behalf of business. 

The Chamber’s 2022 Business Awards will be held on May 7 at the Fairmont Empress. The event will also be broadcast on CHEK TV on May 8. Last year’s broadcast reached 80,000 viewers. 
 
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Kinetic Construction, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at victoriachamber.ca. 
 
Media Contact: 
Jim Zeeben, Communications and Project Manager 
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 
250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca

2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards Finalists

Business of the Year (1-10 Employees); sponsored by City of Victoria

  • 49 Below Ice Cream
  • Cold Comfort Ice Cream

Business of the Year (11-39 Employees); sponsored by Worldline

  • Brown Bros. Property Management
  • Equilibrium Therapeutics

Business of the Year (40+ Employees); sponsored by Chard Development 

  • Heart Pharmacy Group
  • Monk Office

 
Business Person of the Year; sponsored by Coast Capital Savings

  • Amar Magon, Aroga Lifestyle Medicine
  • Jill Doucette, Synergy Foundation

Chamber Award of Distinction; sponsored by Times Colonist

  • Josh Handysides, Malahat Nation

Chamber Member of the Year; sponsored by Air Canada

  • Mary Lou Newbold, Mayfair Optometric Clinic

 
Community Builder; sponsored by Canadian Tire

  • Aryze
  • Island Savings, a division of First West Credit Union

Emerging Business Person of the Year; sponsored by Royal Roads University 

  • Megan Johns, The Green Kiss
  • Mercy Southam, Eir Mobile Medicine

 
Innovation; sponsored by University of Victoria, Peter B. Gustavson School of Business

  • BinBreeze
  • Origen Air

 
New Business; sponsored by Futurpreneur 

  • Iron & Wood Golf Simulators
  • Working Culture Bread

 
Non-Profit of the Year; sponsored by Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island

  • Beacon Community Services
  • United Way Southern Vancouver Island

 
Outstanding Customer Service; sponsored by Innov8 Digital Solutions Inc.

  • Coastal Heat Pumps
  • Luv-A-Rug Services Inc.

 
Outstanding Workplace of the Year sponsored by Ralmax Group of Companies

  • BC Transit
  • Engaged HR

Sustainable Business Practices; sponsored by Camosun College

  • Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours
  • Oak Bay Marine Group

Our Partners

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#100 – 852 Fort St., Victoria, BC V8W 1H8, Canada
Ph: (250) 383-7191
Em: chamber@victoriachamber.ca

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