Your weekly round up of BizNews from throughout Greater Victoria
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Business leadership key to getting through this together
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The good news, as we wait for the current wave of COVID-19 to subside, is that we know how to protect ourselves and each other. Vaccinations work.
“Right now 95% of people in the ICU with COVID-19 are unvaccinated adults,”
Having access to business leaders helps government policy-makers develop better solutions. It's something The Chamber does on an ongoing basis.
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Chamber Events
Tomorrow!
Last week to nominate!
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"I want to thank Dr. Benusic on behalf of our Chamber Champions and all our members for taking time to speak with us and answer questions," Chamber CEO Bruce Williams says. "I also encourage all Chamber members to share their perspectives on the work being done by the Provincial Health Office. As Greater Victoria's business community, we are part of the solution. We can continue to show leadership to help us get through these times and make sure we keep building a more resilient and inclusive economy."
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Island Health: Member since 2020
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Gyms and fitness centres can reopen Thursday
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Gyms and fitness centres are preparing to re-open tomorrow after Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced new guidelines will replace restrictions that required the facilities to close as of Dec. 22. Among the new rules is a ban on heaters or fans that could contribute to the spread of the COVID-19 virus. People exercising are also required to maintain extended physical distancing and show proof of vaccination.
The announcement, made Tuesday, extended restrictions until Feb. 16 for event venues and bars that don't serve meals. All workplaces must also continue to have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place.
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Province doubles Closure Relief Grant to $20,000
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On Wednesday morning, the province announced it was doubling the grant available for businesses ordered to remain closed due to public health measures. Eligible businesses can now apply for up to $20,000 to cover costs after restrictions were extended until Feb. 16. Bars, nightclubs and lounges as well as event venues have been closed since Dec. 22.
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Rapid tests available by appointment at Ogden Point
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Appointments are needed to pick up the tests and can be made by calling 1-844-901-8442. The site will be open from 8 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays.
“I am excited that our space will help to ensure the COVID-19 test get into the hands of residents,” GVHA CEO Ian Robertson said. “As I have stated over the past two years, the health and safety of Victorians is our top priority."
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Island Health: Member since 2020
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Greater Victoria Harbour Authority: Member since 2003
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Your chance to win a 2022 Chamber Business Award ends January 24!
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Don't you deserve some good news?
Nominating a business you love, own, or work for is fast and easy. From innovation to sustainability to being an outstanding workplace — nominate a deserving local business for the 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards!
Finalists receive almost $10,000 worth of promotional value including a professional video that tells your story to the world. Last year's awards broadcast was viewed by nearly 80,000 people!
Find details on how to nominate a deserving local business here.
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5 days left!
Follow The Chamber on social media as we highlight last year's winners and categories worth recognizing!
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Introducing a new platform for virtual events
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In early January, we made the decision to move our January and February events to an online experience out of concern for the health of our community. But we wanted to do a little more.
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The Chamber is pleased to announce an exciting new way for our members to connect! Starting with our January Mixer, we will be implementing a new, easy to use networking platform – Airmeet.
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You asked and we listened. You like the ability to meet in small groups, but wanted to be able to move into conversations independently. You also wanted to access contact details with individuals you met during our events. Airmeet provides us with those tools. You can freely move around the lounge, join tables, and start new conversations. The platform will make networking easier and maximize the contacts you are able to interact with.
As always, Chamber staff will be ready to answer any questions you may have. Please email members@victoriachamber.ca if you have any questions or would like additional information. We look forward to providing you with the best possible way to make new connections, attend informative sessions, and more to take full advantage of your Chamber membership.
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January Virtual
Business Mixer
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Join Chamber Member businesses focused on health and wellness to share best practices and tips for staying healthy through current restrictions. We want to take this time to chat about how we can take care of ourselves first, to be stronger leaders and colleagues.
Health and wellness members will host breakout rooms to facilitate conversations around nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Hear great ideas for staying healthy, share your tips, tricks, recipes, and more.
Attendees can enter to win a pair of BeatsX headphones valued at approximately $150. Great for working out, running, or listening to that relaxation podcast before bed.
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Tomorrow!
Thurs., Jan. 20| 5 - 6 PM | Zoom
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Join us at our upcoming Virtual Membership 101 info session and realize the potential of your membership!
We will be showcasing information on our member benefits and perks; including:
- Resources to grow your business,
- Business exposure and developing connections,
- Honing our online directory listing,
- Utilizing discounts and savings,
and much more!
This session is open to both employees and business owners. Register now as there are a limited number of spots available.
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Mon., Jan. 24 |12-1 PM | Zoom
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Prodigy Mingle - Online Trivia Game Night
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Run out of shows to binge watch? Do you miss connecting with friends? We have just the thing to cure your pandemic boredom....
The Prodigy Group, in partnership with Quiz This, presents an online trivia game night!
Enter a team of 4-6 or sign-up to be placed on a random team and meet new people.
Answer questions curated by quiz master Benji for an hour long game that promises to entertain and strengthen relationships with your team. Get talking and get thinking, and maybe even learn something new at this exclusive Chamber member event.
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Pre-Game socialize from 6:30 to 7 PM and meet all the players online before the quiz begins.
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Camosun adds early childhood education spaces
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To make sure there are enough people to staff new child care spaces, post-secondary schools such as Camosun College have increased their Early Childhood Education spaces.
In 2022, Camosun has added 24 ECE spaces to go along with the 107 spaces added over the last three years.
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Camosun College: Member since 1981
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New funds announced for climate change initiatives
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Projects are eligible for funding if they manage renewable energy, improve access to clean-energy transportation, improve energy efficiency of buildings or generate clean energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Businesses, non-profits, municipalities and Indigenous communities can apply.
To date, more than $240 million has been invested in local projects that increase clean energy and energy efficiency in buildings, transportation and other community-owned infrastructure.
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Chamber Chats with CEO Bruce Williams
A Chat with Jean McRae, CEO of The Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria
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Canada will eventually be seeing the return of immigration. How will that be done best, and what are the unique aspects of immigration for Vancouver Island?
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Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA): Member since 1996
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Special thanks to our series sponsor:
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This Chamber Chat was recorded prior to the announcement of increased restrictions caused by the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
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Staying home, Staying Healthy
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Stay warm and dry this winter even when seeking medical advice. If you have Chambers Group Insurance, you can now take advantage of Teladoc Telemedicine Services — a fast and efficient way of getting the help you need, when you need it.
Members can receive a diagnosis, treatment recommendation and even be prescribed medicine when necessary. Members can consult a physician about non-urgent medical matters by video conference or by phone, from wherever they are, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
This cold and flu season, ensure your family is prepared for anything — without leaving the comfort of your home.
Chambers Plan offers the Teladoc Telemedicine service at no additional charge to all plan members and their dependents. With the Chambers Group Insurance plan, you can customize an employee benefits plan that meets your needs.
Inquire with a Chamber member pharmacy to see if they are offering flu shots this year, and be sure to book your appointment ahead of time. If you’re not yet immunized against COVID-19, learn how to book an appointment here.
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Celebrating our Chamber Champions
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Post your job for free today
This January, make sure you’re well-staffed for the year ahead with The Chamber’s job board!
Chamber Members are entitled to one free 30-day listing on the job board every calendar year, and there’s no better way to kick of 2022 than by adding great talent to your team. Use the code INTRO2022 at checkout when posting a 30 day listing.
The Chamber’s job board is an exclusive benefit for members. Reach the right candidates with the help of The Chamber.
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Tailgate Toolkit Project
The BC Government is expanding to a pilot project to target drug abuse and addiction within the construction industry. Cori Coutts, Health and Safety Manager at Knappett Projects Inc. , was recently interviewed as a supporter of the harm reduction project, stating “it’s nice to know the money is being put in the right place to help people who need it the most.” A $1-million fund will provide workplace training, support groups and information on local resources as part of the Tailgate Toolkit Project.
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Knappett Projects Inc: Member since 1987
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Knappett Projects Inc: Chamber Champion since 2020
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Project Zero expands across BC
Victoria’s Project Zero incubator, an initiative to recognize entrepreneurs and create green jobs, is expanding to include organizations from across the province. Established by Synergy Sustainability, the initiative has seen 29 ventures complete the program, including compost deodorizer BinBreeze.
Synergy Sustainability: Member since 2017
BinBreeze: Member since 2021
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Major League Rugby coming to Langford
The City of Langford is proud to present a Major League Rugby game at Starlight Stadium on Feb. 11. The Toronto Arrows will be facing the Los Angeles Giltinis, marking the first time a regular season major league match has been played in Canada outside Ontario. Tickets are available now.
City of Langford: Member since 2019
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RBC achieves highest market capitalization in Canada
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RBC Financial Group: Member since 1962
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RBC Financial Group: Chamber Champion since 2020
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Saanich hosting climate advice to residents
The District of Saanich is hosting a six-week online workshop to teach residents how to reduce their climate impact. Beginning Jan. 25, experts will host evening sessions to discuss sustainable transportation options, climate friendly home renovations and more. Residents can join the waitlist here.
District of Saanich: Member since 2019
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New investors announced for HarbourCats
The Victoria HarbourCats have announced an expansion of their ownership group. Increasing from four to 10 individuals, the group of investors includes Helen Edwards of Edwards Heritage Consulting, Bob Swanson, Mike Macdonell, John Schnaderbeck and Victor Vendetti. They will be joining John Wilson of Wilson’s Group of Companies, Rich Harder, Ken Swanson and Jim Swanson in leading the Harbourcats, NightOwls and Golden Tide to success.
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Victoria HarbourCats: Member since 2012
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Edwards Heritage Consulting: Member since 2008
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Wilson’s Group of Companies: Member since 2004
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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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BC Ferries Connector operated by the Wilson's Group
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Becoming Design Office Ltd.
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Iris Optometrists and Opticians
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Welcome to our newest members!
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