Transportation Options Archives - Page 7 of 10

Chamber invests in workforce with 1863 Impact Award

November 23, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

VICTORIA, BC – Helping people gain the skills needed to find success and contribute to Greater Victoria’s workforce is vital to ensuring our region’s economy remains robust for years to come.

It’s been a central theme of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce since it was founded in 1863 and will remain a focus as the organization celebrates its 160th anniversary next year.

“Chamber leadership feels strongly about making a difference that is tangible as well as aspirational, so we’re proud to announce the new 1863 Impact Award for post-secondary students,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “Investing in ambitious and motivated students is one way we can make a positive contribution to a person’s life. Doing so also helps that person gain the skills and tools needed to one day join the business community and help build a better community.”

A total of $160,000 will be distributed over a multi-year term to establish entrance awards for post-secondary students, with the University of Victoria receiving $90,000, Camosun College getting $45,000 and Royal Roads University $25,000. Each school will manage the selection of award recipients as well as the specific timing of their process. In 2023, 13 students who meet the criteria will receive awards, which will be available for many years to come.

UVic, Camosun and Royal Roads expressed gratitude for the value placed on education by The Chamber.
“At UVic, we’re committed to contributing to a better future for people, places and the planet,” UVic President and Vice-Chancellor Kevin said. “This commitment aligns closely with The Chamber’s work to support business leaders and ensure growth and prosperity in Southern Vancouver Island. Your vision and leadership in the community has helped to propel aspiring leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.”

“Camosun programs provide real-life, experiential education for all learners,” Camosun College President Dr. Lane Trotter said. “The college is committed to working together and building a great community for all. Thank you to The Chamber for inspiring life-changing learning for Camosun students. Awards like this help to reduce the barriers to education so many students face across the region.”

“The road to completing a university education is never easy,” RRU President Philip Steenkamp said. “Helping out students with these awards is a wonderful way to mark this special anniversary for the Victoria Chamber and the funds will make someone’s journey at Royal Roads be the life-changing, world-expanding, change-making experience it should be.”

Greater Victoria Chamber 1863 Impact Award
Amount per award: $2,000
Number of awards: Varies by institution (University of Victoria, Camosun College, Royal Roads University)
Application period:

UVic: Feb. 15 to April 30
Camosun: May 1 – Aug. 1
Royal Roads: June 1 – Aug. 1

Each post-secondary will be responsible for judging and selecting the award recipients.

General Eligibility
The award is open to all students beginning their studies at: the University of Victoria, Camosun College, or Royal Roads University.
Each post-secondary institution will have slightly different criteria; however, preference is given to the following:

Student(s) who are dependents of a current member of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Student(s) who self-identify as belonging to an under-represented group or groups with historical and/or current barriers to equity
Student(s) who demonstrate financial need.

For more information on the Greater Victoria Chamber 1863 Impact Award, including how to apply or contribute, go to victoriachamber.ca/ impact-award.

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, Cold Star Solutions, 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 Contact:
Jim Zeeben, Senior Manager Strategic Communications and Policy
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca

Huge turnout for first Business Hall of Fame gala

October 6, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

VICTORIA, BC – Dressed up in their finest formal wear, almost 500 people celebrated Greater Victoria’s legends of business Wednesday night at the Victoria Conference Centre.

The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce’s launch of the Business Hall of Fame presented by RBC came after more than a year of planning and a few pandemic-related delays. The wait was worth it.

The inspirational stories of triumph and accomplishment drew loud applause and even a few tears of joy as the first inductees into the Business Hall of Fame took their place among our region’s pantheon of entrepreneurial excellence.

“This has been an amazing night. We’ve been anticipating this for so long and it truly delivered for everyone who was here,” Chamber Chair John Wilson said. “Our business community was tested by the pandemic. I’m not going to lie — it was tough for a lot of people. So having a celebration of business in Greater Victoria was cathartic. It’s so good to be together with the many people who have played key roles in the development of our region’s economy. These are legends who deserve to be honoured so they can inspire all of us going forward.”

An independent selection committee chose the inaugural inductees: Chief Robert Sam, Helen Beirnes, Clare Copeland, Ron Lou-Poy and Ian Maxwell. The group takes its place alongside previous winners of The Chamber’s Lifetime Achievement Business Award: Bill McCreadie, Gordy Dodd, Eric Charman, Mel Cooper, Murray and Lynda Farmer, Naz Rayani, Bob Skene, Keith Dagg, Terry Farmer, Cedric Steele, Gordon Denford, Alex A. Campbell, Robert H. Wright and John Chew.

“The Business Hall of Fame was an idea I had to create a proper avenue to preserve and honour the work of leaders who paved the way for so many businesses to be successful in Greater Victoria,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “We built on that idea with amazing insight from our Chamber Champions and direction from our board. I can’t say enough about the work Chamber staff has done to make this night happen. We’re truly grateful for everyone on the events team, our volunteers and RBC for presenting the event and making the inaugural Business Hall of Fame gala so successful.”

Now that a foundational cohort of community leaders are in place, the next step for the Business Hall of Fame is to begin selecting the next inductees for 2024. Planning is also underway for a permanent instalment accessible to the public.

Every two years, new inductees will be honoured as positive role models in the business community. Inductees are selected for showing regional leadership, insightful vision and a sustained and significant commitment to the prosperity of our region. The process to select inductees recognizes and respects the diversity of leaders who helped build business in Greater Victoria over the decades.

For more information on The Chamber’s Business Hall of Fame, including profiles of the inductees, go to victoriachamber.ca/business-hall-of-fame. For access to high-resolution photos from the evening, email communications@victoriachamber.ca.

Presenting Sponsor: RBC
Premium Sponsors: TELUS Business, Victoria Foundation, Thrifty Foods,
VIP Reception Sponsor: Wesbild
Dinner Sponsors: Cascadia Liquor, Royal Caribbean Group
Supporting Sponsors: City of Victoria, Commissionaires, Oak Bay Marine Group
Media Sponsors: Times Colonist, CHEK, Aspen Films

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

Chamber and DVBA celebrate Small Business Month

October 5, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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

August 24, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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

July 4, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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

June 27, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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:

Update the definition of “small organization” under the Lobbyists Transparency Act 2020 from six employees or less to 25 employees or less.
Amend the Act to provide full exemption for all “small organizations,” regardless of membership-base composition or issues-based organization.
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.
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

May 30, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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

May 7, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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)

WINNER: Cold Comfort Ice Cream
FINALIST: 49 Below Ice Cream

Sponsored by: City of Victoria

Business of the Year (11-39 Employees)

WINNER: Equilibrium Therapeutics
FINALIST: Brown Bros. Property Management

Sponsored by: Worldline

Business of the Year (40+ Employees)

WINNER: Monk Office
FINALIST: Heart Pharmacy Group

Sponsored by: Chard Development

Business Person of the Year

WINNER: Jill Doucette, Synergy Foundation
FINALIST: Amar Magon, Aroga Lifestyle Medicine

Sponsored by: Coast Capital Savings

Community Builder

WINNER: Island Savings (a division of First West Credit Union)
FINALIST: Aryze

Sponsored by: Canadian Tire

Emerging Business Person of the Year

WINNER: Megan Johns, The Green Kiss
FINALIST: Mercy Southam, Eir Mobile Medicine

Sponsored by: Royal Roads University

Innovation

WINNER: Origen Air
FINALIST: BinBreeze

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

New Business

WINNER: Working Culture Bread
FINALIST: Iron & Wood Golf Simulators

Sponsored by: Futurpreneur

Non-Profit of the Year

WINNER: United Way Southern Vancouver Island
FINALIST: Beacon Community Services

Sponsored by: Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island

Outstanding Customer Service

WINNER: Coastal Heat Pumps
FINALIST: Luv-A-Rug Services Inc.

Sponsored by:  Innov8 Digital Solutions Inc.

Outstanding Workplace of the Year

WINNER: BC Transit
FINALIST: Engaged HR

Sponsored by: Ralmax Group of Companies

Sustainable Business Practices

WINNER: Oak Bay Marine Group
FINALIST: Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours

Sponsored by: Camosun College

Chamber Award of Distinction

Josh Handysides, Malahat Nation

Sponsored by: Times Colonist

Chamber Member of the Year

Mary Lou Newbold, Mayfair Optometric Clinic

Sponsored by: Air Canada

Hiring Day connects UVic students with region’s employers

March 28, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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

March 10, 2022/in Transportation Options/by caorda

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