Chamber Updates and Events |
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Chamber Advocacy Wins on the Ring of Fire and on Critical Minerals
The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce is pleased to hear that the Federal Government is serious about providing funding support for a road in the development of the Ring of Fire.
Federal Transport Minister, Omar Alghabra told the Sault Star on Wednesday, April 5th: “Our government is working with provinces, with industry on rolling out those (dollars). I don’t want to pre-empt a specific application or specific project that our government is in discussion with the province on. I understand that we need to do things as quickly and efficiently as possible. We also need to do our due diligence.”
He continued: “I understand that it’s important that we access these resources responsibly and efficiently and it is part of our strategy to do so.”
Ontario’s Ring of Fire region is one of the most promising mineral development opportunities for critical minerals in the province. It’s located approximately 500 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay and covers about 5,000 square kilometres.
The region has long-term potential to produce chromite, cobalt, nickel, copper, and platinum. Critical minerals like these play a role in the future of low- and zero-emission vehicles and transportation, and help support the transition to a cleaner, sustainable global economy.
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The federal government earmarked $1.5 billion for its Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund in the budget announced in late March. The provincial government has $1 billion set aside for Ring of Fire infrastructure.
The budget announcement, along with the renewed commitment to addressing access to the Ring of Fire is encouraging for the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce which is touting the announcements around the Ring of Fire and critical mineral development as policy and advocacy wins.
The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce has spearheaded both provincial and federal public policy initiatives focused on the Ring of Fire as far back as 2016. In 2016, the SSMCOC co-sponsored a Canadian Chamber of Commerce policy resolution calling on the federal government to (among other things):
- Recognize the development of the Ring of Fire as a national priority.
- Work with the government of Ontario, industry and community partners to build capacity and community readiness of nearby First Nations so that they may take full advantage of resource development in the Ring of Fire.
- Work with Ontario, First Nations and industry to develop a plan to address infrastructure needs in the Ring of Fire and develop a joint financing schedule for the plan.
A similar policy was submitted at the provincial level.
In 2022, the SSMCOC partnered with the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce and the Surrey British Columbia Board of Trade to propose a number of steps intended to support investments that amplify the development of Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy and the battery value chain.
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The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce Launches the Becoming ATHENA Leadership Program
Beginning Saturday April 22, the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the “Becoming ATHENA Leadership Program”. The ‘Becoming ATHENA Leadership Program’ is a licensed 7-week course designed to support the development of women in leadership roles. The program will be led by Karen Bird, ATHENA Recipient 2018, President of the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce and certified “Becoming ATHENA Leadership Program” facilitator.
It’s not just another “one-size-fits-all” leadership template — it’s a personalized, transformational growth experience that allows you to find and embody your own authentic leadership style and voice based on authenticity, communication, strength and compassion. This program is a holistic experience that explores all of what makes you unique, valuable and impactful as a leader with an in-depth journey into the Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership, the acclaimed and researched principles that are the foundation of the Becoming ATHENA Leadership Program and defines what it means to be an ATHENA leader.
Individuals can register now and receive the Introductory Special of $495.00 plus GST for members and $595.00 plus GST for non-members (Regular cost is $1,000 plus GST). Space is limited to 35 participants. The fee includes all materials required to complete the program, continental breakfast, and beverages.
Schedule: Saturday, April 22, Module 1 from 10:00am-12:00pm, Lunch Break, Module 2 from 12:30pm-2:30pm. Modules 3 to 10 will then follow, one each Saturday until June 10.
REGISTRATION CLOSES Monday, April 17, 12:00pm EDT
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Join us for Take 5: Love Local on Wednesday, April 19th from 5pm to 7pm at SK Group!
The SK Group Team has been busy making plans for this great networking event!
- Check out the Imprint Art Show and get a glimpse of the vast amount of work SK Group has produced.
- Meet the SK Group team and see how your favorite branded products are made.
- Take the “Passport Tour” that gives you the opportunity to see SK Group's amazing facility. Along the way, you’ll stuff a bag with swag you’ve seen made on site which earns you an entry into the Grand Prize draw.
- Plus more surprises!
Advance registration requested
This event is Free for Chamber members and their employees, as well as prospective Chamber members, however advance registration is requested.
238 Queen St E, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 1Y7
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Rapid Tests are available FREE to Sault Businesses
(150 employees or less)
The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce will continue to distribute free rapid antigen tests to small businesses with 150 fewer employees for as long as our current inventory permits.
Moving forward, orders will be filled on a first-ordered / first-fulfilled basis.
NOTE: Rapid Antigen Test Kits ordered through the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce Rapid Test Program are for COMMERCIAL BUSINESS USE ONLY. Under the provincial program providing these test kits, we cannot fulfil orders placed by individual persons or orders intended for personal use.
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The Canadian Chamber of Commerce SME Institute Has Launched, A First-of-its Kind Service for Canada’s SMEs
Late last week, we launched our SME Institute, a first-of-its kind, one-stop service developed in collaboration with RBC. The SME Institute will provide small and medium enterprises (SMEs) the training, support and advice they need to adapt, grow and thrive — all while benefiting from the Canadian Chamber’s public policy advocacy and its Business Data Lab’s economic insights.
By helping Canada’s small and medium-sized businesses prepare for a rapidly evolving future, the SME Institute will ensure the strength of this critical segment of the economy as it faces a new era of higher costs and slowing growth.
The SME Institute functions as a community of partners, mentors and peers who are committed to the collective success of SMEs. It also offers training programs, a network of trusted service providers to consult, offer advice, expertise and resources, as well as networking and mentoring opportunities. The SME Institute also has a comprehensive library of resources to help businesses recruit, retain and train talent; find and attract investors; use technology to grow their business; boost their business performance through diversity and sustainability; and more.
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Strive YPG is now accepting nominations for volunteer executive positions for 2023-2024.
Attention young professionals! You don't need previous board experience - just a desire to lead and make a difference in our community. Skills like financial management, advocacy, online marketing, and communication are an asset.
As a volunteer with Strive YPG, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our organization and the young professionals we serve.
Don't forget, you must be a Strive member in good standing to join the executive team. Join Strive here.
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Missed the Net-Zero Executive Summit?
Last week the Canadian Chamber of Commerce held an Executive Summit focused on net-zero. Are we on track to reach our emissions targets? This Executive Summit focused on Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reductions Plan one year after release and provided insight on Canada’s path to net-zero.
If you missed the event, read the wrap-up blog with key takeaways. Spoiler - Canada does not seem to be on track to meet its 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan goals. Can we meet 2050’s?
The next summit will be May 3 and will focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Watch for details coming soon!
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Get funding on new tech for your business!
The Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) is celebrating 1 year of helping thousands of businesses like yours get funding for expert advice and new tech products for their business. Getin on the action!
The program includes all of these features:
- Up to $15,000 in grants to hire a Digital Advisor who will produce a tailored plan for your business
- Up to $100,000 in 0% financing with BDC to buy technology that will make your business more efficient
- Up to $7,300 in subsidies to hire a young worker with the skills to help you implement new digital tools
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The United Kingdom Joins the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership
Last week it was announced that the United Kingdom has become the first accession applicant to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The U.K. is Canada’s third-largest trading partner and we are pleased to see it join one of the world’s most progressive trade agreements.
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Business and Community Events |
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Are you a business owner looking to retire or sell your business?
72% of business owners in Canada will transition out of their businesses either by selling to an outsider or shifting ownership within their family within the next decade. Most don't know where to start or how to do it effectively. We can help you.
Northern Ontario Community Futures Development Corporations have partnered with SuccessionMatching.com to help with the business transition process, through a series of business succession planning events! Participants will obtain a high-level knowledge of the overall business transition process and some of the things to keep in mind when thinking about selling. Eligible businesses may qualify for a membership with SuccessionMatching.com (a $2000 value provided FREE by your local CFDC) which provides access to a platform through which they can list their business for sale.
If you would like more information or to register for an event, please contact Cole Gander at cgander@lowbic.on.ca, cell: 807-464-1116
Water Tower Inn Library Room - April 20th 9:00 AM
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Country music stars bring intimate concert from Nashville to a remarkably unique performance venue in Sault Ste. Marie at The Loft!
April 18, 2023 at The Loft Algoma Conservatory of Music. Doors open at 7PM, Concert at 8PM. Complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres. $125 charitable receipt for every ticket purchased issued by NOSM University.
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Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Zoom Event by Algoma Community Legal Clinic and Strive YPG |
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The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce represents the interests of 700 plus business and agencies in Sault Ste. Marie and has been serving the needs of this community since 1889. The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce will lead the way as the voice of business, advancing economic prosperity for its membership and the business community. |
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