A Message From Your Chamber |
Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Community Impact
As we look back on 2024, there’s so much to celebrate and appreciate.
First and foremost, thank you for your membership and unwavering support. Serving you and championing the business community this past year has been our privilege, and we wouldn’t be here without you.
This year, we’ve worked tirelessly to advocate for business-friendly policies, launch impactful "support local" initiatives, and create meaningful opportunities for connection and growth. Events like the 40th Annual Business Awards, Rally the Valley, and our signature Business After 5 Events have not only showcased local businesses but also brought our community closer together in support of shared success.
A true highlight of 2024 has been the remarkable growth of our Chamber membership. We’re deeply grateful to all who have placed their trust in us. Your confidence fuels our commitment to innovate, adapt, and remain the leading voice for business in Greater Vernon.
As we close out the year, we invite you to join us in celebrating all we’ve achieved together by exploring our 2024 Year In Review. Here’s to continued growth, connection, and success in 2025!
Thank you for being an essential part of this journey.
Warm regards,
Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
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2024 Chamber AGM
In September members elected our new board:
President - Kirndeep Nahal
Vice President - Brett Squair
New Treasurer - Charlene Smart
Directors: Martin Von Holst, Kim Heizmann, Brad Callihoo, Shelley Wolsey, Aaron Himelson, Robin Cardew, and new board members Jake Gibson, Laurie Case, and Riminder Gakhal.
Thanks to outgoing board members: Darren Bradley, Michael Molnar, Kari Sargeant, and Vinil Sood.
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The 40th Annual Business Excellence Awards honored the exceptional achievements of businesses and individuals in Greater Vernon.
This milestone event celebrated four decades of recognizing innovation, leadership, and dedication, highlighting the incredible contributions that continue to shape our vibrant community.
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In April, the Chamber's Community Expo, presented by Lake City Casino and World Health and Fitness, drew an impressive crowd of approximately 4,000 attendees.
With 92 vendors on site, the event offered residents a chance to discover local businesses and community organizations. Visitors also had the opportunity to meet elected officials, enjoy fun activities in the kids’ area, and participate in exciting prize draws.
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Last September, the Chamber hosted the inaugural Member Masterclass, an inspiring event focused on professional development with engaging speakers.
The event was highlighted by a compelling keynote address from renowned speaker Mark DeVolder, who captivated attendees with his expertise on navigating change and embracing the future.
The session also featured:
Rocky Ozaki of The Future is Now, who shared actionable insights into leveraging AI for innovation and growth. Dawn Kern spoke on the power of storytelling in business. Ginger Bruner discussed HR tips for busy employers, and Wayne Robert shared how to build from a solid foundation to ensure sustainable growth.
This Masterclass exemplified the Chamber’s dedication to equipping members with cutting-edge knowledge and tools to succeed in an evolving business landscape.
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In May, the Chamber hosted its highly anticipated Day of Golf, presented by the Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies, at the beautiful Vernon Golf & Country Club.
This event brought together business professionals and community members for a day of friendly competition, networking, and camaraderie, all set against the stunning backdrop of one of the region’s premier golf courses.
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In December, the Chamber hosted Mingle & Jingle: A Special Business After 5 Event at the Okanagan Spirits Tasting Room.
The highlight of the night was the grand prize raffle for a $1,000 Silver Star package, alongside exciting door prizes, making the event a perfect blend of fun, connection, and holiday cheer to wrap up the year.
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This year, our Business After 5 events flourished as a platform for networking, collaboration, and community building, with attendance hitting all time record numbers.
Hosted at unique venues like the Towne Theatre and The Rise, these gatherings brought together professionals from across Greater Vernon.
These events have strengthened connections within our business community, fostering relationships that drive growth and success.
Don't forget to register, our next event is at Tekmar...
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In 2024, the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce proudly continued its role as a champion for the local business community through impactful advocacy and meaningful engagement. Representing nearly 700 businesses and nonprofits, the Chamber successfully tackled significant challenges and amplified the voice of local enterprises.
A key accomplishment was securing exemptions to the short-term rental ban for communities such as Predator Ridge and Outback Lakeside Resort. Through collaboration with stakeholders, meetings with government officials, and direct advocacy to the premier, the Chamber worked to ensure that these businesses could thrive, bolstering both the tourism industry and the resort organizations they represent.
In addition to these efforts, the Chamber advocated on critical issues, including reviewing the residential tenancy act, eliminating the carbon tax, and increasing funding to combat invasive mussels. These initiatives reflect our commitment to addressing the diverse needs of our members and the broader community.
We were also proud to host an all-candidates forum ahead of the 2024 B.C. Provincial Election, providing residents and businesses an essential opportunity to hear from candidates and make informed decisions.
Looking ahead, we are excited to launch a new business support program in 2025, offering tailored analysis and consultation to help companies grow. Additionally, our three-year strategic plan will focus on strengthening the Chamber to better serve our members and continue driving economic success in Greater Vernon.
To see a full list of our advocacy letters, releases and videos click here.
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In 2023, we launched Work and Invest Vernon to address our members' top concern: finding skilled workers. This online portal has continued to thrive throughout 2024, serving as a vital resource for entrepreneurs and job seekers exploring Greater Vernon for new business opportunities or employment.
Work and Invest Vernon remains a one-stop hub for job postings, links to major local employers, business resources, economic and demographic data, and quality-of-life infographics that highlight the region’s appeal.
Supported by sponsors City of Vernon, Tolko, Kal Tire, KingFisher Boats, and Restoration Lands, the campaign’s targeted advertising to Calgary and Vancouver has kept it as the most viewed page on the Chamber’s website.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to reassess this initiative and launch a refreshed campaign in Ontario, continuing to meet the evolving needs of our members and the Greater Vernon community.
Visit the newly revamped Work & Invest Vernon landing page here.
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In December, the Chamber proudly presented Rally the Valley, supported by sponsor Valley First. This vibrant initiative encouraged residents to shop, dine, and support local businesses throughout the holiday season.
Highlights included the chance to win one of two $500 gift cards, generously provided by the Downtown Vernon Association and Village Green Shopping Centre.
From engaging promotions to showcasing the unique offerings of Greater Vernon’s businesses, Rally the Valley underscored the importance of keeping dollars in our community.
Thanks to the support of Valley First and the enthusiastic participation of residents, the campaign aimed to successfully strengthen local connections and fostered economic growth during the busiest time of the year.
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Chamber members continue to take advantage of the #1 plan for employee benefits in Canada for a reason.
Chambers Plan covers all industries including one-person firms, home businesses, and farms.
Benefit options include life, health, dental, vision, and travel insurance, short- and long-term disability, business overhead benefits and many others.
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We announced an affinity partnership with HR Covered. As our member, you now have complimentary access to over 1000 HR documents for all jurisdictions in Canada, plus other perks.
This is valued at $990/year per business. To register for your complimentary access, please click here.
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This year, the Chamber proudly welcomed 95 new members to our growing community, marking a significant milestone in our mission to support and connect businesses in Greater Vernon.
These new members represent a diverse range of industries, bringing fresh energy, innovation, and perspectives to our network.
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The Chamber is proud to represent a thriving network of 675 members, showcasing the strength and diversity of businesses in Greater Vernon.
This milestone reflects the confidence and trust our community places in the Chamber as a leading advocate and resource for economic success and collaboration.
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The Chamber was pleased to bring onboard two new outstanding employees to help serve our members.
Kevin Rothwell - Membership Manager
Mayla Janzen - Events & Promotions Coordinator
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Please click to participate in our 2024 membership survey. Your feedback is important and will help us better serve you. Survey closes Jan. 31 at 4 p.m.
All completed responses will be entered into a draw for a $200 gift certificate to a member restaurant of your choice.
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