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ACC Weekly Newsletter
February 6, 2026
Edition #5
Advocacy. Connection. Impact.
| | | ACC Confirmed to Present to Atlantic Economic Panel | | |
We are pleased to share that the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce will present to the Atlantic Economic Panel on February 17 at 3:30 PM in St. John’s, NL.
Our presentation will be grounded in what we are hearing from our members and key partners, including the Atlantica Centre for Energy and the Atlantic Education Collective. We are also encouraged by the strong engagement across our chamber network, with over 100 business survey submissions received to date.
Important ask: If your Chamber or Board of Trade has submitted a written brief, please share it with Brandon so we can ensure your priorities are reinforced during our in-person discussions.
Thank you for continuing to strengthen and amplify the collective voice of Atlantic Canadian business.
| | Celebrating Good Governance! | | |
Congratulations to Avon Chamber, Kensington & Area Chamber, Lewisporte & Area Chamber, and the Gander Chamber for completing our Good Governance training!
Understanding the responsibilities and role of a director is critical for long-term sustainability, and we cannot stress enough how valuable this knowledge is for strong, effective leadership in our chambers.
Thank you for investing in the future of your organizations and the broader business community!
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Atlantic Energy Collective: Urgent Call to Action: Advancing Regional Energy Collaboration in Atlantic Canada | |
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce has joined more than 30 organizations as part of the Atlantic Energy Collective in calling on Atlantic Premiers to make regional energy collaboration an urgent priority. Letter to Atlantic Premiers
Recent power warnings across the region highlight growing pressures on provincial electricity systems and the need for coordinated, Atlantic-wide planning. A new report, An Atlantic Canadian Energy Future, outlines practical, phased steps to strengthen reliability, protect affordability, and support long-term economic resilience while respecting provincial authority.
We will share more as this important work advances.
| | Connecting Across Regions and Sectors: This Week’s CEO Engagements | | |
This week, our President & CEO continued to strengthen relationships and advance advocacy priorities through engagement with partners across Atlantic Canada and beyond. Meetings included discussions with Indigenous Services Canada, as well as regional chambers and development organizations including the Greater Moncton Chamber of Commerce, Develop West Prince, the Strait and Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Baie Verte Chamber of Commerce.
In addition, preparations were underway for the upcoming Atlantic Trade Mission to British Columbia, helping ensure strong representation and opportunity-building for Atlantic businesses.
These ongoing conversations are essential to maintaining collaboration, sharing regional insights, and ensuring the voice of our network continues to be represented in key policy, economic development, and trade discussions. They also reinforce our commitment to delivering value to members by building partnerships that create opportunity, influence decision-making, and strengthen the business environment across Atlantic Canada.
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Call for Nominations:
ACC Board of Directors
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The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce (ACC) is currently seeking nominations to fill vacancies on its Board of Directors. We invite both Chambers/Boards of Trade and Corporate Partners to consider putting forward qualified candidates who are passionate about strengthening Atlantic Canada’s business community.
Current Vacancies
Chamber Representatives
- One (1) representative from New Brunswick
- One (1) representative from Newfoundland and Labrador
Corporate Partner Representatives
- Vacancies are also available for Corporate Member directors. Corporate Partners are encouraged to nominate a representative from their organization.
Eligibility
For Chamber Representatives:
- Candidates must be nominated by a Chamber of Commerce or Board of Trade
- Nominees must be a Director or Member in good standing
- Proof of affiliation and confirmation of support from the local chamber are required
For Corporate Representatives:
- Nominees must be from an ACC Corporate Partner organization
- Candidates should bring relevant leadership experience, insight, and perspective to the Board
How to Apply
All applicants must submit:
- A brief statement outlining their interest in serving on the ACC Board
- A summary of previous governance experience
- An overview of skills and expertise relevant to ACC’s strategic priorities
Deadline:
February 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM (AST)
Submit applications to:
Tracy Beaver
tracy@atlanticchamber.ca
| | Strengthen Your Board in 2026! | | |
We’re excited to offer Good Governance sessions to our members’ Boards of Directors—designed to enhance leadership, accountability, and long-term success. These sessions are available complimentary to Chambers across our network.
Spaces are filling up, so book your Board’s session for 2026 today and give your organization the tools for a strong year ahead!
Learn more here: atlanticchamber.ca/board-governance.
| | New Policy Paper Series: Cutting Red Tape for Business | | |
We are pleased to release the first in a four-part policy paper series focused on practical, business-driven solutions to reduce regulatory burden and improve competitiveness in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Read Paper One of the Red Tape Reduction Initiative
Paper One presents a 10-point Red Tape Reduction Initiative aimed at lowering administrative costs, modernizing outdated requirements, and creating a more predictable operating environment particularly for SMEs.
Next steps: The Atlantic Chamber will actively lobby elected officials and senior-level government leaders to explore these recommendations and advance meaningful, implementable reforms. We will continue to share updates and welcome member input as this work moves forward.
Contact Brandon Ellis for more information.
| | ACC 2026 PAC Meetings: Thank You to Our Members | | |
This week, the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce held the first Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC) meetings of 2026. We sincerely thank all members who attended and shared their insights.
The input gathered during the February PAC meetings will inform the President & CEO’s upcoming presentation to the Atlantic Economic Panel, a private sector–led initiative focused on advancing Atlantic Canada’s economic growth and long-term prosperity. Your experiences and perspectives help ensure the real challenges and opportunities facing businesses across the region are represented.
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ACC Engages Federal Leadership on Atlantic Fisheries Fund
On January 6, 2026, the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce sent a letter to Prime Minister Carney and relevant Ministers advocating for the renewal and enhancement of the Atlantic Fisheries Fund. The letter highlighted the Fund’s critical role in supporting Atlantic Canada’s fisheries sector and local economies.
We are pleased to share that on January 28, 2026, the Prime Minister responded, acknowledging our concerns and outlining the government’s ongoing commitment to the region’s fisheries. The Atlantic Chamber will continue to engage with federal leaders to ensure Atlantic businesses and communities benefit from strong, sustainable fisheries support.
Both letters are available on our website.
| | Atlantic Economic Panel Survey | |
Deadline has been expended to Monday February 9, 2026
The Atlantic Economic Panel is now seeking input from you and the business community you serve.
Atlantic Canada is at an important turning point. The Atlantic Economic Panel, launched in November 2025 and chaired by Don Mills is focused on identifying practical actions to improve productivity, competitiveness, and long-term prosperity across the region.
This brief online questionnaire (less than 10 minutes) asks for views on key economic opportunities and barriers, workforce and population growth, tax competitiveness, energy development, and overall confidence in Atlantic Canada’s economic future.
Your input will directly inform the Panel’s recommendations to governments, with results shared publicly through the chamber network.
Please complete the questionnaire using the link below:
Please share this survey with your members and the deadline for completion is Monday, February 9, 2026.
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ACC’s latest op-ed, “The Private Sector Is the Engine of Our Economy. Here’s Why That Matters,” was featured in the Telegraph-Journal. This spotlight amplifies ACC’s voice, sharing our insights with policymakers, business leaders, and the broader public. It strengthens our profile, showcases the value of our work, and creates new networking and influence opportunities—demonstrating how ACC advocates for a thriving Atlantic Canadian business community.
The Private Sector Is the Engine of Our Economy. Here’s Why That Matters
| | Provincial Pre-Budget Consultations Underway in New Brunswick and Newfoundland & Labrador | | |
The Governments of New Brunswick and Newfoundland & Labrador have both launched their pre-budget consultation processes and are inviting feedback from residents, businesses, and organizations on fiscal priorities and economic challenges ahead of their upcoming provincial budgets.
In New Brunswick, the consultation for the 2026–2027 budget is now open. Stakeholders are encouraged to share input on spending options and economic priorities through an online submission form. The process is supported by a discussion document, Difficult Decisions, outlining the province’s current fiscal context and projected challenges. Submissions can also be sent by email or mail to the Department of Finance and Treasury Board. The deadline to participate is Friday, February 20, 2026.
In Newfoundland & Labrador, an online questionnaire is available through engageNL, with separate streams for individuals and businesses focused on identifying priorities and concerns. Virtual consultation sessions will also take place in the coming weeks, and written submissions can be emailed directly to the provincial government. Feedback through the online survey is due by Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce will be preparing submissions to both consultations. Members wishing to contribute ideas or feedback are encouraged to share input with Brandon Ellis (brandon@atlanticchamber.ca) by February 11, 2026, allowing time for perspectives to be incorporated into our collective response.
| | Anniversaries in the Network! | | |
Anniversaries are more than dates on a calendar—they’re a chance to recognize and thank the people and organizations whose dedication keeps our network strong.
Each milestone reflects years of service, commitment, and collaboration, and we are grateful for the contributions that have helped shape our community.
Celebrating in February!
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Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
Lexie Jasiewicz ED Celebrating 1 year with the Chamber
Chelsea Weatherbee Membership & Special Projects Coordinator Celebrating 6 year with the Chanber
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Atlantic Chamber of Commerce
Rhonda Tulk Lane President & CEO Celebrating 2 years with ACC
| Atlantic Business & Community Information Board | Be sure to check the Atlantic Business and Community Information page on our website. It is a central hub for timely updates from government, community partners, and organizations across the region, and features programs, services, and opportunities of interest to Atlantic Canadian businesses. | |
Please join us in welcoming Helena ACC newest intern. Helena is joining us for a 10 week program sponsored through the YWCA in NL.
Olena Danevych is a specialist with experience in finance, economics, and sales. She was born and worked in Ukraine, graduated from Kyiv National Economic University in the field of Economics and Entrepreneurship, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Auditing, and a Master’s degree in the field of Economics with a focus on Accounting and Auditing in Bank Management. She has professional experience in both the corporate and public sectors, including roles as Senior Sales Manager, Accountant, and Leading Economist. In 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, she moved to Canada, where she continues to develop her professional experience.
At UKRPLIT LLC, Olena managed financial and administrative processes, analyzed sales and demand, prepared financial documents, participated in tenders and exhibitions, and maintained relationships with corporations, construction companies, and government agencies.
As a Leading Economist at JSC The State Export-Import Bank of Ukraine, she managed correspondent banking accounts, analyzed account turnovers and balances, prepared interbank agreements, tariff structures, and reports, and ensured compliance with financial regulations.
In Canada, Olena has worked in customer service and sales and volunteered at the Free Tax Clinic with the Association for New Canadians, assisting clients with tax services. These experiences have provided her with valuable insight into Canadian business practices, broadened her international perspective, enhanced her professional skills, and helped her continuously improve her English, strengthening her ability to work effectively in international and multicultural environments.
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Meeting Notifications from ACC
ACC meeting notifications are shared through several channels to ensure broad awareness and easy access for members:
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Weekly Newsletter: Meeting announcements are featured either as standalone notices or under the “Meetings and Events” section.
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Email Notices: Standalone email invitations are sent for specific meetings.
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Website Listings: All meetings are posted on the events calendar and often highlighted on the homepage.
For meetings involving government officials or special guests, registration is typically required. The registration link is included in both the newsletter invitation and the standalone email. Once registered, attendees receive the meeting link directly via email.
For recurring meetings, such as the All Chambers Meetings, the same registration link is used throughout the year for convenience.
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| Dates for your calendars! | | |
ALL Chambers Meeting
February 25, 2026
10:00AM (AST)
Engaging Youth with Lexie Jasiewicz
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
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Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC) Meetings
April 13, 2026-PEI
April 14, 2026- NS
April 15, 2026-NL
April 16, 2026- NB
All meeting start at 1:30PM (AST)
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ACC Annual General Meeting
On Line
June 18, 2026
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Keep Your Events in the Spotlight
Our event calendar is one of the most visited sections of the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce website—and we want your Chamber’s events to be part of it!
Whether you're hosting a networking event, training session, fundraiser, or community celebration, sharing your upcoming activities helps drive attendance and increases visibility across the region. It’s quick and easy—just complete our simple online form to update your Chamber’s events.
Help us showcase the energy of our network across Atlantic Canada!
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