BizNews
December 1, 2021
Your weekly round up of BizNews from throughout Greater Victoria
Greater Victoria cruise ship season set to return April 6
As we head into the final month of the long strange trip that has been 2021, there is good news for local business in 2022. The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority has announced next year's cruise ship schedule.

A record 350 ships are expected to call on Victoria, with the first arriving April 6. The visits will bring an estimated 759,000 passengers to our region, helping tourism operators and local businesses from April until Oct. 26.

The Chamber has been advocating for the safe return of cruise ships to Victoria, urging the federal government to act decisively to stop political efforts in the US to exempt cruise ships from the Passenger Vessel Services Act. The act, which prevents foreign-flagged ships from travelling directly between states, has been a catalyst for Canada's cruise industry.
Greater Victoria Harbour Authority: Member since 2003
Fuel rationing extended as BC copes with flooding
The province has extended fuel rationing requirements for non-essential vehicles until Dec. 14. The limit does not apply to essential vehicles, which include commercial transport trucks, home care workers and refrigerated trucks.

Rationing is required due to the shutdown of the Trans Mountain pipeline because of intense flooding in southern BC. The pipeline, which supplies most of the fuel used on Vancouver Island, is expected to be restarted later this week.
As climate makes headlines, Langford takes action
The City of Langford has adopted a policy to help reduce the carbon footprint of new construction in the municipality. The low-carbon concrete policy takes affect June 1, 2022 and will require all city-owned or solicited projects to use concrete produced with carbon dioxide mineralization technologies. The policy also applies to private projects greater than 50 cubic meters.

The Chamber applauds this innovation led by business as real solution for climate challenges affecting us locally and globally.
City of Langford: Member since 2019
TELUS Ocean going to public hearing on Dec. 9
A major project that promises to boost Greater Victoria's tech sector and bring hundreds of good jobs to the region is going to public hearing this Thursday.

TELUS Ocean, a 12-storey office tower with a striking design, is planned for what's known as the Apex site across from the Victoria Conference Centre in the City of Victoria. TELUS Business plans to use the office as its regional headquarters and an innovation hub showcasing advanced communications and information technology.

The project is being led by Aryze Developments, who have crafted a proposal that promises to add new, vibrant public spaces to the area along with the world-class iconic architecture.
TELUS Business: Member since 1962
TELUS Business: Chamber Champion since 2020
City of Victoria: Member since 1962
Victoria Conference Centre: Member since 1990
Aryze Developments Inc.: Member since 2021
Renewed interest in rail as alternative to Malahat
As November's heavy rains continue to cause disruptions on BC highways, a group of Island transportation advocates are renewing calls to bring back rail service as an alternative route over the Malahat.

Highway 1 was closed after the Nov. 15 atmospheric river brought record rainfall that caused mudslides on the Malahat. The highway closure contributed to supply shortages in Greater Victoria.

The recent South Island Transportation Study found that bringing back rail service would be too expensive, but their numbers are contested by the Island Corridor Foundation.

The Chamber has long advocated for better transportation planning in Greater Victoria. If a rail service is feasible, it's worth investing in the Island's infrastructure so we can avoid future disruptions to the supply chain.
Island Corridor Foundation: Member since 2020
Shop #ChamberLocalVicBC for free shipping
Choose local this holiday season and take advantage of free shipping!
From Sidney to Sooke, The Chamber will be covering delivery fees for our Chamber retailers at no expense to your business or your customers.

Eligible Chamber retailers will feature a green badge on our Member Directory, and more businesses are being added every day. If your business would like to participate, or if you have any questions about the promotion, contact [email protected].
Supporting local businesses this holiday season means more than just getting your gifts faster; it also means you’re supporting your neighbours and your community. It’s never been easier to shop Chamber Local.

Looking to ship your gifts outside Greater Victoria? The Chamber still has you covered. With our UPS Benefits Program, Chamber members receive up to 50% off all small package shipments around the world.

Get access to hassle-free shipping during the busiest season of the year. Whether you’re shipping around the world or right next door, make sure your presents arrive safe and sound this December with a little help from The Chamber.
Honour Greater Victoria's most notable business community leaders
The Chamber Business Hall of Fame, presented by RBC, is pleased to invite you to attend this inaugural red-carpet gala event!
 
This exclusive black-tie event will celebrate 19 Business Hall of Fame inductees and recognize their contributions to the growth and development of our community. This historic event held at the Victoria Conference Centre will be a night to remember with great food, drink and opportunities to connect with Greater Victoria's most influential business stakeholders.
 
Don't delay, much like the annual Business Awards, tickets will go fast.
Presented by:
Thurs., Feb. 3, 2022 | 5-9 PM
Victoria Conference Centre
720 Douglas St., Victoria
Who is that masked character? Comic Con 2022
Capital City Comic Con is coming back to Greater Victoria next March. The Sci-Fi and comic book convention hasn't been held for two years because of the pandemic.

The 2022 event will run from March 25 to 27 at the Victoria Convention Centre as well as Crystal Garden across the street. Start planning your costume now!
Victoria Conference Centre: Member since 1990
Wet weather a reminder to prepare for wild winter
Areas of Greater Victoria are experiencing their wettest fall on record, with the Gonzales weather station reporting almost 300 times the rainfall of a typical year.

The parade of storms caused substantial damage to infrastructure in BC. And while the current forecast suggests the worst is over, the coming winter is expected to be wetter and colder than most years. Meteorologists at the Weather Network have released their winter forecast and say we can expect "tumultuous temperature patterns."

The prediction is based on a La Niña weather pattern in the Pacific Ocean that will bring frigid weather that could extend ski season well into March.

"This will bring an abundance of snow to the alpine regions, and, at times, we expect significant snowfall across lower elevations, including Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, Victoria and the Okanagan Valley," the network's report says.
Chamber Chats with CEO Bruce Williams
Getting back on track with Larry Stevenson, Island Corridor Foundation
Will rail service ever get back on track across Vancouver Island?

The Island Corridor Foundation owns and manages the rail bed on Vancouver Island. In this Chamber Chat we speak with Corridor Foundation CEO Larry Stevenson about the future of trains on the Island.
Island Corridor Foundation: Member Since 2020
Special thanks to our series sponsor:
Nominations now open!
Each week, The Chamber will profile one of the 14 different award categories, encouraging members to nominate a deserving Chamber member.

Emerging Business Person of the Year:
  • Honours a business owner or founder under the age of 39 who:
  • Has excelled in business;
  • Exemplifies outstanding leadership and/or entrepreneurial skills in their field;
  • Exhibits exceptional vision that contributes to business success; and
  • Demonstrates leadership and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Need some inspiration?
Check out the videos of the 2021 Emerging Business Person of Year finalists below. Thanks to Royal Roads University who is our sponsor for this award in 2022.
Give your 2022 Business Awards application a winning edge!
Join us as we share tips on how to make your business stand out to the judges! This event is for all businesses who have already received a nomination or want to learn more before nominating themselves. 

During this virtual call, we will take a look at the Steps to Nominate a Business, the 2022 Award Application Guide, and the Awards Categories and Judging Criteria to help you successfully complete your award application.  
Tues., Dec. 7 |12-1 PM
Zoom
Chair's Holiday Reception is now sold out!
We're looking forward to celebrating our fearless Chair, John Wilson, and kicking-off the holiday season by honouring his love of sports at tomorrow's Chair's Holiday Reception.

Don't forget to wear your team gear or colours to show your support and have some fun! Cash bar and hors d'oeuvres provided. This is a 19+ event.
Sponsored by:
Thurs., Dec. 2 | 4-6 PM
In keeping with the current PHO for in-person events, all attendees must be fully vaccinated to attend and will be required to show their BC Vaccination Card and valid government issued ID. View COVID-19 Safety Protocols for In-Person Events here.
Make sure you’re well-staffed for the New Year

With only one month left before the end of the year, make sure you use your free job post on The Chamber’s job board!

Chamber Members are entitled to one free 30-day listing on the job board every calendar year. Simply use the code INTRO2021 at checkout. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity for Chamber members. Ensure you’re well-staffed for the start of 2022.

If you have any questions or need help uploading your job posting, email [email protected]
Member News
Naden Band holiday concerts

The Salvation Army is presenting the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy on Dec. 6 and 7. Hosted at the Royal Theatre, this in-person holiday concert will be emceed by our very own CEO Bruce Williams. Attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped toy in support of the Salvation Army Christmas Toy Drive.
The Salvation Army: Member since 2006
Royal and McPherson Theatres Society: Member since 1976
WeBC launches new site, creates virtual pop-up store

The Women Enterprise Centre has rebranded themselves as WeBC. With a new website containing resources and stories, the organization aims to support BC-based women-owned businesses.
And, just in time for the holidays,
WeBC also recently launched a virtual pop-up shop featuring more than 450 women-led businesses.
WeBC: Member since 2015
Celebration of Lights

The Township of Esquimalt hosts a seasonal celebration on Dec. 5 from 5-7 pm. The 15th annual Esquimalt Celebration of Lights Parade will feature Christmas carols, a chance to visit with Santa, and free treats, including hot dogs, hot chocolate and snacks. To attend, bring a non-perishable food item, which will be provided to the Victoria Rainbow Kitchen Society.

Victoria Rainbow Kitchen Society: Member since 2021

Township of Esquimalt: Member since 2020
Who killed Santa? A KWENCH Murder Mystery

Looking for a fun Christmas event after the Chair’s Holiday Reception? KWENCH is hosting a murder mystery party on Dec. 2 from 7:30 – 9:30 pm. This is your opportunity to play as either a suspect or a witness as you share clues to determine who killed Santa Claus. Tickets are still available.

KWENCH: Member since 2019
Compete with your coworkers this month

Chamber Members are being offered a chance to play
Quiz This, a virtual game show designed by The Number, for free until Dec. 15. Invite your coworkers or friends for an evening of live-hosted fun with unique, nostalgic and challenging rounds. Use the code VICCHAMBER and start planning your team bonding experience.
The Number: Member since 2004
ICA part of anti-racism awareness initiative

The Greater Victoria Local Immigration Partnership, a coalition which includes the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria, has created a series of resources and protocols to target racism in the region. Comprised of government agencies, institutions and businesses focused on inclusion, the partnership has a strategic plan to support meaningful employment opportunities, improved access to housing and more.
Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA): Member since 1996
Electrifying BC Ferries

In a recent interview in Douglas Magazine, Mark Collins, CEO of BC Ferries, discusses the electrification of BC Ferries’ fleet and how the new vessels are considerably quieter and more sophisticated for a greener future. Collins foresees a shift away from diesel, eventually standardizing ships through a 20-year strategic plan.
Douglas Magazine: Member since 2004
BC Ferry Services Inc: Member since 1983
BC Flood Response Fund

The United Way of Southern Vancouver Island has set up a BC Flood Response Fund, supporting critical relief and urgent recovery efforts across BC.

Donations are currently being accepted with funds going to those who have lost housing, belongings or employment.
United Way of Southern Vancouver Island: Member since 1972
Do you have a success story? We want to hear from you
Member to Member discounts
Charge Fitness
Iris Optometrists and Opticians
MazumaGo
MetCredit
Members can post Coupons and Discounts free of charge here.
Welcome to our newest members!