From the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. The mission of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce is to represent, serve and connect our approximately 700 members to build and sustain a thriving business community. I am very pleased to report that we provide many great benefits for our members.
Advocacy, Benefits for our members, and Connecting (networking) are our main focus.
Advocacy is one role the Chamber plays. We work hard to understand the issues affecting your business, and we lobby on your behalf to all levels of government. Our committees are made up of engaged members who further explore issues and develop policy and position papers that make recommendations for change. Most recently, the Chamber was a driving force behind the creation of the mobile business license, which eliminates the need for business licenses in each municipality. Now, a business can purchase one license in their home municipality and then carry on business in participating jurisdictions. Furthermore, we have recently concluded participation in the Mayor’s Task Force on Economic Prosperity. The task force, which included Chamber representatives, examined areas where we can grow our economy by attracting new investment to Abbotsford while supporting the growth of our existing business base. As you can see, your membership has a great impact on improving the business climate in Abbotsford.
Benefits – Our knowledgeable and helpful staff can show you the growing list of member benefits that will provide a competitive advantage for your organization. Don’t forget about our member-to-member (M2M) savings allowing you to earn considerable discounts while supporting local business.
Connecting – Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, our networking events allow you to connect with other local business and community leaders. Come out to one of our monthly Business After Business events where you can tour a local business, sample great food and beverages and network with approximately 80 Chamber members and guests. Our monthly luncheons allow you to make a deeper connection with Chamber members and learn from first-rate speakers. In addition to our monthly networking events, we hold an annual golf tournament, trade show, bus tour and Business Excellence Awards. Your membership gives you many different ways to promote yourself and make critical connections to further grow and develop your business.
If you are new to the Chamber, please remember, the greater your involvement, the bigger the return on your investment. It takes time to understand all that the Chamber can do for your operation and to make connections with local business and community leaders. I encourage you to remain engaged and seriously consider participation on a committee.
I am pleased and honoured to be your President at this exciting time of growth for our City. We welcome your feedback and look forward to hearing from you during the year. You, our members, are the foundation of the Abbotsford Chamber and together we will continue to be “The Voice of Business” in Abbotsford.
Warmest regards,
Joshua Bach
2015/17 President