"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."

What are your thoughts on BC's pandemic procedures, practice and protocols as they effect your business? Let us know at [email protected].

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.

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.

Island Health is using the Breakwater District at Ogden Point as a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test pickup location, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority announced Tuesday.

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."

Find details on how to nominate a deserving local business here.

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.

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 [email protected] 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.

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.

The Prodigy Group, in partnership with Quiz This, presents an online trivia game night!

Child care is the second largest expense after housing for working parents, which is why investing in affordable child care helps more people stay in the workforce.

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.

Applications open Jan. 26 for the third intake of the CleanBC Communities Fund, which has $134 million in federal and provincial money for initiatives that address climate change.

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.

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?

Watch our Chamber Chat with Jean McCrae, CEO of the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria, and learn more about the organization responsible for helping those new Canadians settle here.

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. 

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. 

Members can post Coupons and Discounts free of charge here.