|
|
On March 11, Canadian Chamber of Commerce CEO, Hon. Perrin Beatty, and board member, Craig Hougen, were in Victoria to connect with Vancouver Island chambers of commerce. Their visit provided an exciting opportunity for many, including our own Manager of Policy and Public Affairs, Peggy Kulmala! "When Mr. Beatty was Minister of National Defence, he lifted the restrictions on women, which allowed me to define my naval career by my efforts and passion, not my gender," said Peggy, a retired Canadian Armed Forces public affairs officer. "It was a tremendous honour to meet Mr. Beatty. He has done - and is doing - so much for Canada and Canadians!" |
Marketing CanadaIncreasing awareness of Canada and promoting its spectacular destinations, attractions, events and festivals supports growth in the tourism sector. The Government of Canada will provide $50 million over two years to Destination Canada to augment marketing initiatives in important international markets, such as the US and China. "We are delighted to see the federal government recognize the importance of the tourism economy as a driver of jobs, small business and wealth creation in Canada," said Tourism Victoria CEO Paul Nursey. 
|
|
|
|
|
Opportunities and connections
|
|
|
|
|
Oprah.com Recommends Flytographer
In an article on Oprah.com Flytographer
 |
| |
The Flytographer team
|
was named one of " 12 Ingenious Travel Hacks Everyone Should Know." "Getting endorsed on Oprah.com is something our entire team is proud of," says Nicole Smith CEO and Founder of Flytographer. "Some people think you need to be based in a big city like New York, San Francisco, LA, or Toronto to be a major player. Stories like this show that you can run a global business and still live in a beautiful place like Victoria, BC." |
Flytographer: member since 2015
| |
|
Spring has sprung and plans for the 2nd annual  YYJ Eats are in full bloom. Last year's inaugural event was a huge success (just look at the photos here). The Chamber is gearing up to do it all over again Thurs, June 21 at Market Square from 5 to 7 pm. To become a food or beverage participant click here. 
|
Improving Our GatewaysFor BC, the US is the most important international source market, evidenced by three international gateways within the Greater Victoria region alone: Belleville International Ferry Terminal - home to the Coho and Clipper, Victoria International Airport, and the Washington State Ferry Terminal in Sidney. Putting our best foot forward is key. For example, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority intends for Ogden Point Cruise Terminal to become a home port for cruise ships and YYJ is increasing its US offerings, with Delta Airlines starting its three round-trip flights per day between Victoria and Seattle in April. To attract more visitors and external investments, tourism operators seek pre-customs clearance, without which visitors must clear Canadian and US customs on both ends of their journey. On March 10th, US and Canada agreed to expand pre-clearance for visitors to each country beyond the eight Canadian airports that currently offer this convenience. "Belleville is a prime location to transition from pre-inspection to full pre-clearance," said The Chamber's Manager of Policy and Public Affairs, Peggy Kulmala. "Plus, Belleville's proximity to Ogden Point provides an opportunity for shared staff and other resources." More about the agreement and the potential benefits of pre-clearance in this Business in Vancouver article.
|
Royals Win Regular Season Title
The Victoria Royals
|
| |
Photo by Jon Howe
|
clinched the B.C. Division, Western Conference and Western Hockey League regular-season titles. All three championships are firsts in the 10-season history of the Chilliwack Bruins/Victoria Royals franchise.
Ending the regular season on a 13-game win streak and franchise record of 50 wins for the season, the Royals get home ice advantage in the first round on the playoffs when they take on the Spokane Chiefs this weekend at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre.
|
BUSINESS LEADERS LUNCHEON:  Fraud, vandalism, shoplifting, and other illegal activity can have a real impact on businesses and their bottom line. Join BC Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris to learn and discuss the Province's strategy to improve community safety in British Columbia. Tues, April 12 | 11:30 am-1 pm
Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel & Marina, 146 Kingston St.
 |
B+ for Budget  The Canadian Chamber gives the Government of Canada's 2016 Budget a "B+". The investments in skills are appreciated, as are the efforts to stimulate the economy and the focus on green technology.
The Canadian Chamber, as does the Greater Victoria Chamber, eagerly awaits the coming announcements on Phase 2 of Canada's infrastructure plan as well as the upcoming Innovation Agenda.
|
Easter Events in YYJ
Not sure what to do for the Easter long weekend? Why not plan brunch with family or friends? There is still time to get a chocolate bunny and eggs for an Easter Egg hunt! Don't want to plan anything yourself? Several Chamber members have fun events in store for children of all ages. - At Butchart Gardens, children under 17 can find ceramic bunnies in the gardens.
- Rumor has it the Easter Bunny will be at the Victoria Public Market on Sun, Mar 27 from 12-2 pm. Face painting, live music and crafts are also in store!
Please note The Chamber office will be closed from Mar 25-28. Hope the holiday brings you lots of cheer! 
|
Butchart Gardens: member since 1976
|
|
Victoria Public Market: member since 2015
|
|
Welcome to Our Newest Members!
|
|
GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS:
|
| | Lynda and Murray Farmer
Governors' Lifetime Achievement Award Winners
|
Celebrate SuccessSold out! Call to be placed on the waitlist.
A spectacular night of prestige, entertainment and celebration, the Greater Victoria Business Awards recognizes members in 13 different award categories. Click here to see the finalists.
Thurs, April 21 | 6-10 pm
The Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St. 
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
