Your weekly round up of BizNews from throughout Greater Victoria
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Cruise ship season now scheduled to start Saturday
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The cruise ship season is expected to begin Saturday with the arrival of Holland America's Koningsdam.
The season was initially set to kick off today, but, as we've come to expect over the last two years, the arrival of the Caribbean Princess has been delayed out of an abundance of precaution.
"We're learning to live with COVID-19, and that means we can expect occasional hiccups," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "We are in good place, with the vast majority of people protected through immunization against serious illness. However, The Chamber supports the work of the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority to put safety first as it welcomes a new cruise ship season."
Last fall, The Chamber was part of a multi-organization effort to work with government to ensure cruise ships would be back in 2022. At the time, the GVHA estimated 759,000 passengers will visit our region aboard 350 ships from now until November.
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Chamber Events
Please check our
for updates.
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For an up-to-date schedule of cruise ship arrivals at Ogden Point, go to gvha.ca.
“The start of cruise ship season is another sign that Greater Victoria is reconnecting with the world,” Williams said. “International visitors provide a significant boost to our region’s economic ecosystem, which truly flourishes when all sectors are able to achieve their potential. It’s exhilarating to once again show off our spectacular corner of the world to travellers. On behalf of all Chamber members, I’m thrilled to welcome the first passengers back to Greater Victoria.”
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Greater Victoria Harbour Authority: Member since 2003
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VicPD protects us regardless of where we call home
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A convoy of honking trucks and anti-government protestors that planned to entrench themselves in James Bay fizzled out before it could gain a foothold.
"Safe, peaceful and lawful protest are protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Occupation is not," states a VicPD media release. "Dangerous and/or unlawful activity will continue to be met with de-escalation and enforcement.
By being proactive, the Victoria Police Department were able to avoid a prolonged disruption to businesses and residents. VicPD consulted with Ottawa police about lessons learned by that city when it permitted a protest that then turned into an encampment.
VicPD Police Chief Del Manak shared his insights as a guest speaker at The Chamber's Public Policy and Advocacy committee meeting this week. Chief Manak was also asked about efforts to create a regional police department that could draw resources from more than one municipality. VicPD works with their neighbouring police forces as much as possible, but there's no question the department faces critical constraints. The job of police is to protect people in their community, regardless of where they're from. In Greater Victoria, that means VicPD protect everyone who visits downtown for work in the day or for all of its entertainment options in the evening.
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Victoria Police Department: Member since 2008
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SD61 budget cuts could impact student employment
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"We understand that this year’s budget process requires difficult decisions, and we do appreciate that every trustee is doing their best to make the right decision. That said, we urge the school board to continue adequately funding career centre staff positions," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams stated in a letter to trustees. "Education is about helping students grow and learn to be successful adults who contribute to making our world a better place. Students receive positive direction to fulfill their academic potential, and they deserve to also have positive direction to prepare them for working life."
Career centre staff are able to help students learn to build connections and professional relationships. Without that assistance, there might be fewer students available to take on traditional student positions. With Greater Victoria experiencing a workforce crisis, hiring students helps employers and gives young people a chance to earn money to pursue their own dreams.
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Greater Victoria School District 61: Member since 1976
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Ban on foreign buyers reportedly in federal budget
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The federal budget will be unveiled tomorrow at 1 pm and is expected to include plans for long-term economic growth. However, high inflation and uncertainty over the war in the Ukraine could see the government focus on new spending priorities, states an analysis by RBC Dominion Securities.
Housing affordability will be the cornerstone of the budget, according to media reports that suggest new rules will prohibit foreign buyers of real estate for the next two years. CTV also says the budget will include:
- $4 billion for municipalities to update zoning and permit systems to speed up housing construction
- $1 billion affordable housing construction
- and $1.5 billion in loans and funding for co-op housing.
The RBC analysis notes that Canada's economic recovery has been stronger than expected, allowing the feds to announce new spending and lower deficit projections. The analysis also points out that private capital will be required to grow the economy over the long term and to begin addressing chronic labour shortages facing all sectors.
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RBC Dominion Securities: Member since 1962
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PHO confirms vax pass restrictions expire Friday
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Starting Friday, businesses and event organizers will no longer be required by the province to check vaccination status. As well, businesses will only need a communicable disease plan to reduce the spread of all infectious diseases rather than a specific COVID-19 safety plan.
"We expect a few businesses will continue to require proof of immunization, much as many continue to ask that masks are worn in common areas," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. "We welcome the end of formal regulations and support businesses that know their customers and their staff, and who make decisions that work for their organization."
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Announcing our newest Champion
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The Chamber is happy to announce that we've added a new Chamber Champion to help amplify our advocacy efforts as the voice of business in Greater Victoria.
BC Ferries has joined our roster of Chamber Champions, which also includes 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.
The Chamber Champions initiative was created in 2020 to add a powerful resource for leadership and guidance to our organization and members. Learn more about how these organizations are championing the work of the Chamber.
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BC Transit receives relief as ridership improves
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Transportation services such as commuter buses were hit hard by pandemic restrictions.
BC Transit is reporting ridership levels have recovered to about 70% of pre-pandemic levels. To ensure the service can carry on until it's fully recovered, the federal and provincial governments announced $28 million in relief. The governments are also providing $176 million to Translink on the Lower Mainland.
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BC Transit: Member since 1999
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Spring into Chamber Events
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Protocols for all in-person Chamber events
To continue to safeguard the health of our community we require all in-person event attendees to be fully vaccinated. Mask wearing is to each individuals' discretion. You can review our COVID-19 safety protocols here.
Please be aware that the requirements for our events may change on short notice and we will follow the current PHO directives applicable on the event day.
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The Chamber Annual General Meeting
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There's still time to join us at our Annual General Meeting. Reserve now to hear from special guest speaker, the Hon. Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, about Budget 2022 and Transportation on the South Island.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure plans and improves transportation networks, builds new infrastructure, provides transportation services, and implements transportation policies, to allow for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. Join us to learn about how the Ministry’s priorities will impact your business.
The AGM is also your chance to catch up on chamber business, including recent advocacy wins, a report from our chair and audited financial statements.
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Tues., April 12 | 11:30 AM - 1 PM
Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort
100 Harbour Rd, Victoria
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Prodigy Group April Mingle
@ Friends of Dorothy Lounge
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Kick-off the April long-weekend with signature cocktails, upscale dishes and fabulous décor in a place that offers both a classy VIP experience and be-yourself atmosphere. Friends of Dorothy Lounge is the perfect place to foster great connections and future collaborations as one of Greater Victoria’s emerging professionals.
Come network, create new social connections, and build new business relationships at this fabulous Prodigy Group Mingle.
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Thurs., April 14 | 5 - 7:00 PM
Friends of Dorothy Lounge
537 Johnson St., Victoria, BC
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Location announced for April Business Mixer!
This vibrant, after hours business social event provides an excellent opportunity for members and prospective members to meet face-to-face, establishing or renewing valuable business relationships. Join us for this modified-format mixer and to connect with the Greater Victoria business community.
Chamber Business Mixers are a member benefit. Non-members are welcome to attend one mixer as our guest while you consider joining The Chamber. Please note this is a 19+ event.
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Thurs., April 28 | 5 - 7 PM
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Business Leaders Luncheon: Mark Collins, CEO of BC Ferries
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Hear from BC Ferries on their plans to evolve our coastal ferry system. One of the world's largest marine passenger systems, BC Ferries is an economic driver for our province. For 60 years, BC Ferries has been dedicated to providing safe and efficient travel to their customers. Their role as a ferry transportation provider goes beyond getting passengers from point A to B. With 25 routes on the west coast of BC, they serve as advocates for the coastal environment and the communities where they operate.
Mark Collins, CEO of BC Ferries, will take you through how the company is preparing for the future and contributing to a sustainable environment.
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Thurs., May 12 | 11:30 - 1 PM
Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, 146 Kingston St, Victoria
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Chamber Chats with CEO Bruce Williams
Learning Lessons with your Local Library
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If you haven’t been to your local library lately, either in person or online, you may not be aware of all the resources available to you. it’s an A-Z information universe including everything from Ancestry to Zoology.
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Special thanks to our series sponsor:
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Greater Victoria Public Library: Member since 2008
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2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards
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The Chamber is excited to announce that the 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards taking place in-person are now sold out.
This gala event recognizes businesses in Greater Victoria that have achieved a standard of excellence in the community through their own abilities, efforts and initiatives. Click here to see the 2022 finalists!
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Saturday, May 7 | 6-10 pm
The Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St.
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Spring Savings with The Chamber
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Need to improve your home office? Lenovo, Monk Office, and Grand & Toy offer a variety of discounts for hardware, furniture and more.
Ship your packages with ease and get 50% off domestic and international shipping with UPS. Shipments can be easily tracked through UPS My Choice® for Business. Learn more about shipping rates and tracking here.
For more information on how to take advantage of these savings, or to post a Member to Member offer, contact members@victoriachamber.ca.
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Exploring diversity with Chamber IDEA Committee
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Chamber CEO Bruce Williams would like to invite you to visit the new Chinese Canadian Museum exhibit in Fan Tan Alley, created in partnership with the Royal BC Museum.
The IDEA Committee offers advice and guidance to The Chamber to create a more inclusive and welcoming business community that truly represents the diversity of the Greater Victoria business community we aspire to have.
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City of Victoria: Member since 1962
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Work with a
Chamber Champion
When you’re searching for your next employer, look no further than a Chamber Champion!
Featured on The Chamber’s job board, Chamber Champions are offering great career opportunities for talented individuals across Greater Victoria.
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Grow your business with successful exporting
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Looking for a potential 18% increase in export revenue? The Chamber invites you to bounce forward out of the pandemic by taking advantage of the upcoming local Trade Accelerator Program (TAP)!
TAP is designed to help SMEs TAP into their full export potential. It has a proven track record helping participants get results. With new trade agreements, competitive Canadian dollar, and new business opportunities, now is the ideal time to extend your company's reach through international expansion of goods and services. Since 2017, World Trade Centre Vancouver has successfully delivered 24 TAP cohorts in B.C.
Qualifying Chamber Members pay only $500 (a $4,500 savings).
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Apply Now
Enter Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in the Who Referred you section.
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Learn more about the program and apply today at tapbc.ca.
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Workshop Days
9:00a.m. – 4:30p.m.
June 1, 2, and 3
Mentorship Days
8:30a.m. – 12:30p.m.
July 12 and 13
Application Deadline:
May 17, 2022
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190 years at Scotiabank
Scotiabank is celebrating their 190th birthday this year! To mark the occasion, the bank has published an article looking back at previous logos and seals they have used, including a commemorative logo for their 190th. Scotiabank has also created a skill-testing video to test your knowledge on banking machines used in the past.
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Scotiabank: Member since 1962
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Scotiabank: Member since 2021
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10 to Watch Awards
At the Douglas Magazine 10 to Watch Awards, two Chamber members were named as winners. DealBuilder received recognition for their ability to assist small business owners in selling their businesses as quickly as possible for maximum value, and Origen Air received praise for their high-impact, small footprint, plant-powered commercial quality air purification unit.
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Douglas Magazine: Member since 2004
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Origen Air Systems Ltd: Member since 2020
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DealBuilder: Member since 2021
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HeroWork Program Society: Member since 2019
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Dodd's Furniture & Mattress: Member since 2002
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Shape Property Management – Uptown: Member since 1983
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Victoria Day Parade returns
Greater Victoria Festival Society: Member since 2016
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CHEK News: Member since: 1971
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CHEK News: Chamber Champion since 2020
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Thrifty Foods: Member since 1981
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Kidovate Market
The University of Victoria will be hosting a youth entrepreneurship market at the Bay Centre this Saturday. Kidovate aims to teach entrepreneurial skills to young students, and the market will feature more than 70 middle/high school students selling a diverse array of jewelry, art, soaps, handicrafts, plants, services and more.
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University of Victoria: Member since 1976
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University of Victoria: Chamber Champion since 2020
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Bay Centre: Member since 1990
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Paws-itilvey perfect stress reliever
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Camosun College: Member since 1981
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St. John Ambulance: Member since 2012
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MyEsquimalt
The Township of Esquimalt has launched a new online platform to help residents and business owners simplify their municipal accounts. Businesses can apply, renew and pay for their business licenses online. And, later this spring, residents will be able to receive property tax notices electronically.
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Township of Esquimalt: Member since 2020
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Do you have a success story? We want to hear from you
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Member to Member discounts
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Canada Hire Recruitment & Staffing
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Compass Mobile Massage Therapy
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Welcome to our newest member!
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