Take 5 Love Local Hosted by Sault Area Hospital Foundation

Sault Area Hospital Foundation (SAHF) invites Chamber members for a special behind-the-scenes Take 5 Event at Sault Area Hospital. Join us for a look at how donors are helping to make outstanding care at Sault Area Hospital possible.

• Attendees can look forward to:Celebrating the outstanding work happening at our hospital
• Interacting with some of the medical equipment that has been purchased through generous community donations
• Tours throughout the hospital
• Delicious food from The Grand Gardens!

FREE PARKING – the west patient parking lot (in front of Main Entrance) – gates will be lifted between 4:30 – 7:30 PM

Take 5: Love Local is FREE for Chamber of Commerce/Strive members and their employees, as well as prospective Chamber members and students. However, due to limited accommodation, we kindly ask that you confirm your attendance in advance using the red registration button provided below. If you do not have a Chamber login, simply select 'Non- Members Click Here to Register' and continue.

Don't miss out - register today using the BLUE button below!⬇️

🗓 Date: Thursday, March 27th, 2025

⏰ Time: 5:00PM - 7:00PM

📍 Location: Sault Area Hospital [750 Great Northern Road]

Nominate a Business or Individual for the Outstanding Business Achievement Awards TODAY!

The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce (SSMCOC) is pleased to announce that it is now accepting nominations for its annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards.

The annual SSMCOC Outstanding Business Achievement Awards celebrate businesses, organizations, and agencies who drive success and innovation, foster inclusive and accessible workplaces, demonstrate leadership in customer service and employee relations, and make significant contributions to the local economy and community. Additionally, the Chamber will recognize the successes and community contributions made by several individual business leaders.

This year’s award categories include:

·      Business of the Year (3 categories: small business 1-25 employees, medium business 26-100 employees, large business 100+ employees)

·      Charity or Non-Profit of the Year

·      Downtown Business of the Year

·      Indigenous Business of the Year

·      Community Investment Award

·      Excellence in Innovation & Technology

·      Employer of the Year

·      Leader in Accessibility

·      Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

·      New Business of the Year

·      Excellence in Customer Service

·      Young Professional of the Year

·      Excellence in Environmental Sustainability

·      Entrepreneur of the Year

The deadline to submit a nomination is Monday, March 31st, 2025. Anyone wishing to nominate a local business, organization, or businessperson, can visit https://bit.ly/3R2F6QC for details and online nomination.

The Outstanding Business Achievement Awards will be handed out on Tuesday, May 6^th, 2025, at the Chamber’s annual OBAA celebration.

🗓 Date: Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

📍 Venue: Quattro Hotel & Conference Centre (229 Great Northern Road)

Being ATHENA Leadership Program 2025

Beginning Thursday, March 27th, the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce will host the Being ATHENA Leadership Program. 

The 'Being ATHENA Leadership Program' is a licensed 10 module course designed to support the development of women in leadership roles. The program will be led by Karen Bird, ATHENA Recipient 2018, Past President of the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce and certified 'Being ATHENA Leadership Program' facilitator. 

ATHENA International is creating a community of leaders that value and elevate everyone through their Leadership Programs.

These trusted principles symbolize the transformative leadership needed in the world, especially in times of uncertainty and upheaval. You will stand stronger as a leader for yourself, those around you, and beyond

These programs are a holistic experience that explores all of what makes you unique, valuable and impactful as a leader. It is 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.

Included in the Program

• Predictive index behaviour assessment
• Comprehensive digital program workbook/journal
• 10 two-hour cohort sessions (led by a certified ATHENA facilitator)
• Access to ATHENA Connects, ATHENA International's networking platform
• Networking events, outside of the cohort sessions
• Opportunity to hear industry experts speak
• Free subscriber access for one year, beginning on your program start date, as long as you complete the program

What's in it for you?

• Expand your leadership knowledge & self-awareness – core values, who are you?
• Supportive cohort culture – you're not alone
• Advocating for self & others
• Build strong relationships – conscious & unconscious bias
• Tactical techniques that could increase your strength in interactions – conflict resolution
• Flight – fight – fawn – freeze
• Tools to radically improve personal and professional lives – give back & work-life balance
• Celebrate yourself & others

The only way to achieve equality is together. 

Media;

SooToday: https://www.sootoday.com/local-news/chamber-of-commerce-to-host-leadership-program-10334595

Sault Star: https://www.saultstar.com/news/karen-bird-empowers-women-through-athena-leadership-training-in-sault

Registration closes at noon on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025.

Schedule: Every Thursday from 11:00am-1:00pm starting March 27th for Module 1 and May 29th for Module 10. If you need special accommodation, please contact us.

BR+E Interview Sign-Up

 The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of its Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) program, with interview scheduling currently underway. This vital program is designed to strengthen and support local businesses by gathering critical insights directly from business owners and managers across the city.

The BR+E program is a collaborative effort aimed at understanding the specific challenges, needs, and opportunities within the local business community. Through confidential one-on-one interviews, the Chamber will collect valuable feedback from participating businesses, which will help shape local economic development strategies. The ultimate goal is to create a more supportive and resilient business environment that benefits all.

Why Participate?

Participating in the BR+E program gives businesses a unique opportunity to share their perspectives, highlight their needs, and influence the future of economic development in Sault Ste. Marie. The focus of this particular project is on assisting existing businesses rather than attracting new ones because existing businesses account for about 70 percent of all new jobs (6 Reasons Why Your Community Should Undertake a BR+E Project – ON Regional Economic Development)

The feedback collected will remain confidential, with results shared only in aggregate form (percentages and trends) to ensure the privacy of all participants. Once compiled, the data will provide a comprehensive, data-driven view of the business climate in Sault Ste. Marie and will be shared publicly.

Calling All Local Businesses and Organizations

The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce invites businesses and organizations of all sizes and sectors to participate in this important initiative. If your business/organization is interested in participating in the BR+E interviews, please complete the form available BY CLICKING THE RED BUTTON BELOW and the Chamber staff will contact you or you contact them directly at info@ssmcoc.com or 705-989-6524.

Understanding Your Business Insurance

Join Millworks Centre for Entrepreneurship with risk advisors, Danielle & Kyle, from Northern Insurance Brokers on Wednesday, March 19th from 12:00 - 1:00pm as they define commercial insurance and help identify your coverage needs.

In this webinar, you'll learn about:

- Deconstructing a policy

- How is your policy rated and who is covered

- Reducing loss through risk management

- And more!

🗓 Date: Wednesday, March 19th

⏰ Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

📍 Location: Microsoft Teams

Call For Northern Ontario Business Case Competition Judges

The Faculty of Business and Economics at Algoma University is looking for judges for the

Northern Ontario Business Case Competition!

What is the NOBCC?

The NOBCC is the exciting culmination of four years’ worth of studies in a business or commerce degree program. This year, students will gather to compete “head-to-head” in a high-pressure situation involving a real-world case scenario where they strive to prepare the best solution to their business case within a limited time frame.

Interested in getting involved? Apply to become a judge today!

🗓 Date: April 2nd, 2025

⏰ Time: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Tentative Schedule)

📍 Location: The Water Tower Inn

Project Managers, AWIC, and SSMIC Collaborate to Explore Algoma Project Management Chapter

A dynamic group of Project Managers, in collaboration with the Algoma Workforce Investment Corporation (AWIC) and the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC), is spearheading an initiative to explore the creation of the Algoma Project Management Chapter. This effort is designed to bring together PM professionals, students, and employers across the region to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation.

The proposed chapter will serve as a hub for PM students and professionals to connect, exchange best practices, and explore opportunities for professional growth while contributing to the regional economy. For students, this initiative presents a unique opportunity to self-identify as aspiring project managers, engage with industry professionals, gain real-world experience, develop leadership skills, and establish a strong foundation for future careers in Project Management across many local, national and global industries. 

To gauge interest and shape the initiative’s direction, our team of like-minded Project Managers, along with AWIC, and SSMIC are inviting Project Managers (designated or aspiring) and Employers to participate in a questionnaire, open until March 31st. The survey will assess the demand for a local chapter and help tailor its offerings to meet the specific needs of professionals, students, organizations, and employers who hire or employ project managers in the region. 

Proposed Objectives of the Algoma Project Management Network:

• Connection: Build a cohesive community of project management professionals in the Algoma region, through networking events, knowledge-sharing sessions, and community engagement, the Chapter seeks to build and strengthen the local Project Management ecosystem.
• Best Practices: Facilitate the sharing of methodologies, tools, and experiences to enhance project outcomes across industries.
• Professional Growth: Identify and promote opportunities for career development, training, and mentorship.

“This initiative provides a unique opportunity for PM students to engage with industry professionals, enhance their career development, and build valuable networking connections,” said Silvia Alves, Executive Director at AWIC. “We encourage professionals and students alike to take part in the questionnaire and help shape a strong, engaged Project Management network.”

“Our goal is to create a space where Project Managers across industries, and students can connect, share insights, and support one another in meaningful ways,” added Taylor Trecroce, Director of Business Development at SSMIC. “Through this exploratory phase, we aim to ensure that the Chapter will provide real value to its members and the broader community.”

How to Participate:

Project management professionals, students, and interested parties in the Algoma region are encouraged to participate in the survey. Your input is invaluable in shaping a network that serves the community effectively.

Algoma University Business Society 2nd Annual Starting Somewhere Event

Ever dreamed of launching your own business? Ready to meet like-minded people who actually get your ambition?

The Algoma University Business Society is bringing you an unforgettable night at the 2nd Annual Starting Somewhere Entrepreneurship Networking Event!

What’s in it for you?



- Meet and mingle with ambitious students, professionals, and entrepreneurs who are just as passionate as you are.

- Hear real stories from a startup founder to learn what worked, what didn’t, and what it really takes to succeed.

- Experience the rush of a live pitch competition where big ideas take center stage.

- Enjoy great food, great company, and an inspiring atmosphere designed to spark new ideas and connections.

🗓 Date: March 28, 2025

⏰ Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Speakeasy, Algoma University

📍 Location: Speakeasy, Algoma University

CHANGE A LIFE ONE TICKET AT A TIME

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sault Ste. Marie invites the community to participate in their SPARK THE FUTURE 50/50 monthly online draw—an exciting opportunity to win while supporting vital mentorship programs for local youth. Each ticket purchased directly fuels life-changing mentorship relationships, empowering young people to unlock their potential and build brighter futures.

To highlight the excitement our combined jackpot for the past two months was $4,950 with last month’s jackpot reaching $1,750. With growing participation the next jackpot could be even bigger!

Key Details:

• Draw Dates: The 15th of every month
• Location: Big Brothers Big Sisters Sault Ste. Marie Office
• Time: 7:00 PM

Ticket Prices:

• 3 tickets for $5
• 10 tickets for $10
• 40 tickets for $20
• 70 tickets for $30

How to Enter:

Tickets can be purchased on the Big Brothers Big Sisters website. CLICK THE RED BUTTON BELOW FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS! ⬇️

Why Participate?

Every ticket purchased helps expand mentorship opportunities, fostering growth, resilience, and hope for Sault Ste. Marie’s youth. Join in to spark change and support our future leaders!

The Village Effect: Transforming Lives Through Care

Join Nogdawindamin for The Village Effect on March 29, 2025!

They are thrilled to invite you to their Alternative Care Open House - The Village Effect: Transforming Lives Through Care, a one-day workshop and open house dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children through Alternative Care (AC).

This event is designed for individuals ready to open their hearts and homes to children in need. From becoming caregivers to offering respite or short-term support, there are many ways to make an impact—and this event will show you how.

Why Attend?

Learn about AC and the training and support available for caregivers.

Connect with current caregivers and gain insight into their rewarding experiences.

Discover different opportunities to engage, from short-term care to long-term commitments.

This is more than an event—it’s a collective movement to ensure every child can achieve Mino Bimaadiziwin, the good life, by building a network of love, care, and connection.

Together, we can build a stronger community and a brighter future for every child. Craft vendors are welcome to attend.

To confirm your attendance, please email communications@nog.ca.

🗓 Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025

⏰ Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

📍Location: Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre

EMPLOYERS: WANT TO LEVERAGE THE RCIP PROGRAM TO HIRE TOP FOREIGN TALENT?

The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) offers permanent residence (PR) to skilled workers who want to work and settle in rural and more remote communities and Sault Ste Marie is one of the selected communities to participate.

By becoming a designated employer, you can attract top talent to meet your business needs!

At iCA, they specialize in helping businesses like yours navigate the RCIP program to access top-tier foreign talent. Here’s how they can support you:

1. Designated Employer Support – You need to be a designated employer to hire under the RCIP program. iCA can guide you through the designation process, ensuring you’re fully compliant with all the requirements.
2. Full-Time, Permanent Job Offer – To hire through the RCIP, you must offer a full-time permanent job. iCA will help you to ensure that the job offer meets program criteria, ensuring a seamless hiring experience.
3. Immigration Support – Once you've selected the right candidate, iCA will provide full immigration support to help your new worker to apply for a work permit and for Permanent Residence. We ensure the entire process runs smoothly, so you can focus on growing your business.

Why choose iCA?

●     Licensed Staffing/Recruitment Agency in Ontario (BLA-0000007217).

●     Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant in good standing (License# R709916)

●     We are your Local Talent Solution Partner providing expert guidance through immigration and recruitment processes.

Let iCA be your trusted partner in navigating the RCIP program and find you the ideal talent for your business!

Register here to become iCA's preferred employer and receive the latest updates and information on immigration and recruiting foreign talent.

Still have questions?

Chamber members are eligible for a free employer consultation at iCA Immigration & Talent Services in Sault Ste Marie. Redeem your consultation with this link.

How Canada Wins: Sault Ste. Marie’s Growth Blueprint

Check out this recently published article which includes an in-depth feature on our city's economy, highlighting key industries, opportunities, and the collaborative efforts shaping our future.

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Education to Real-World Experience

Discover how you can cultivate a skilled and diverse workforce while supporting your business and community. On Tuesday, March 25, the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce invites you to join the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Co-operative Education Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) for a one-hour webinar on the transformative power of work-integrated learning. 

Work-integrated learning (WIL) programs present an opportunity for businesses to address skill shortages, access innovative ideas and new perspectives, and mentor Ontario’s future workers. By recruiting students for WIL programs, you can tap into a pool of talented, motivated potential employees to contribute to your organization’s success. 

Register today to hear from Louie Di Palma, Vice-President SME Programs at OCC, and Charlene Marion, Executive Director at CEWIL Canada, as they share their insights on how WIL adds value to Ontario's economy and the tools and funding available to support it. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Workplace Health and Wellness: Immunization Programs

Immunization remains one of the most cost-effective preventative health strategies. On Thursday, April 3, the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce invites you to join the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Praxus Health’s Co-Founder, Dr. Jia Hu, and Vice-President of Strategy and Partnerships, Jonathan Mudry, for the Workplace Health and Wellness: Immunization Programs webinar.  

This is your opportunity to learn about the importance of adult immunization, the benefits of a vaccinated workforce, and how employers can be a driving force in increasing employee health and wellness through vaccination programs. 

This webinar is intended for employers, human resource professionals, and benefits advisors. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

March & April Promotion Detail

Limited-Time Promotion: $200 Statement Credit for all new members

Promotion Period: March 1^st ~ April 30^th, 2025.

Throughout the month of March and April, any new member who signs up through Elavon's Chamber Referral Program will receive $200 statement credit! 

This exclusive offer is available for a limited time, and they want to ensure that our members are among the first to take advantage.

How Members Can Participate: 

1. Submit a web inquiry through the Elavon Chamber landing page (https://join.paymentstart.com/cachamber).
2. Elavon's dedicated sales representatives will promptly reach out for a consultation within 24- 48 hours
3. Complete the sign-up process by April 30^th, 2025, and members will be qualified to receive $200 Statement credit  - *Please refer to flyer footers for more details

VIEW THE PROMOTIONAL FLYER HERE

 2025 TARIFF IMPACT SURVEY

The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce is conducting a survey to understand the potential impact of U.S. and Canadian tariffs on local businesses. Your participation is crucial in helping us gather insights into how these tariffs are affecting various industries and what support or resources are needed to address the challenges posed by these trade policies. 

This survey aims to collect information on: 

• The type and size of your organization. 
• The industry and region in which your business operates. 
• The impact of U.S. and Canadian tariffs on your business operations. 
• Strategies your business has considered or implemented in response to tariffs. 
• Your confidence in Ontario's economic outlook and your business's ability to adapt to ongoing trade tensions. 

Your responses will help us advocate for policies and resources that support the business community in Ontario. The survey should take approximately 3-5 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous and will be kept confidential. 

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY

Tariffs Are Threatening Canadian Jobs and Innovation — Businesses Speak Out

Across Canada, businesses are feeling the squeeze. Tariffs aren’t just disrupting trade — they’re driving up costs, stalling innovation, and putting jobs and long-term economic growth at risk. From manufacturing to agriculture, no sector is immune.

Now more than ever, Canada needs bold leadership to defend its businesses and workers. The government must be an unapologetic champion for free and fair trade.

Tell Us Your Story

Help us illustrate how tariffs are affecting businesses like yours. Your story can shape the conversation, ensuring our leaders prioritize solutions that protect jobs, businesses, and our global competitiveness.

SHARE YOUR STORY HERE

Informational Links - U.S Tariffs

Canadian Chamber of Commerce Statement

Canadian Chamber of Commerce Trade Tracker

Ontario Chamber of Commerce Statement on Inter-Provincial Trade Barriers

Ontario Chamber of Commerce Ontario Business and Trade Leadership Coalition

Made in Canada

Products Subject to Tariffs

ARTICLES:

The Antagonist Next Door: Trump’s Tariffs and Our New Bilateral Reality

Survey Affirms Americans’ Support for Trade

Embargoed: Business Insights Quarterly Report

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is pleased to share the release of their Business Insights Quarterly Report for Q4 2024. This report provides valuable insights into the current state of the Canadian business landscape, highlighting emerging challenges, regional trends, and sectoral outlooks.

READ THE REPORT HERE

Canada Summer Jobs applications now open

Canada Summer Jobs provides wage subsidies to support employers to create summer work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30 years. Apply now.

Ontario launches $100 M partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink

ONSAT program to bring broadband to 15,000 eligible underserved homes and businesses in rural, remote, northern parts of Ontario. Read more

Canada small business financing program

Find out more about the federal government’s Canada Small Business Financing Program

Ontario government returns $2.5 B to workers and businesses through WSIB rebates and fee reductions

Key measures include a $2 B rebate for safe employers beginning February 2025 and a reduction in WSIB premium rates saving businesses $150 million annually. Read more

Ontario investing more than $74 M through skills development fund capital stream



New round of funding through Skills Development Fund Capital Stream. Read More

Northern Opportunities: Federal Support and Programs for Northern Ontario Enterprises (RECORDING)

Watch the Northern Opportunities information session from October 2nd.

Hosted by the Northern Chamber's network, the Northern Opportunities: Federal Support and Programs for Northern Ontario Enterprises webinar featured presentations from federal agencies, including:

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): Learn how to leverage immigration to fill skills gaps, attract top talent, and drive economic growth.

• Trade Commissioner Service (TCS): Discover how to expand your business into international markets with expert advice, funding, and accelerator programs.

• Innovative Solutions Canada: Explore R&D funding opportunities to develop new innovations and test prototypes in real-world settings.

• Other federal support programs will also be discussed to help your business accelerate its growth.

Click Here to Watch

Land Acknowledgements: More Than Ticking A Box

Just in case you missed it...

On June 13th the Ontario Chamber of Commerce hosted a webinar titled, Land Acknowledgements: More Than Ticking a Box, hosted by SSMCOC Past President, Karen Bird.

True relationship-building with Indigenous people is not authentic unless it moves past an acknowledgement.

During this session, Karen guides attendees on how to create and deliver land acknowledgements with meaning, authenticity, and intention. This webinar offers valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance understanding and respect for the traditional territories we occupy.

Click Here to Watch

15 Supports and Services for Small Businesses

1) Tools, Resources and Funding

Business Benefits Finder

The Business Benefits Finder is a one-stop resource for businesses to access all government services. It offers up to 1,500 supports from all levels of government. Businesses can find tailored programs and services by answering a few questions.

Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDC’s)

Each CFDC offers free business counselling, flexible and repayable loans for new and existing small and medium sized businesses, strategic planning on local projects and community economic development in rural areas. 

CFDC offices are locally managed by a volunteer Board of Directors, mostly comprised of business people within their own communities. 

Local CFDC – Community Development Corporation of Sault Ste. Marie & Area

Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP)

The Canada Digital Adoption Program helps Canadian small-medium sized businesses grow their online presence with the help of a microgrant.

BizPaL

BizPaL is an online service that benefits Canadian businesses by helping them identify which permits and licences they require and how to obtain them. Entrepreneurs simply select the business activities they plan to undertake and BizPaL then automatically generates a list of all required permits and licences from all levels of government (federal, provincial, territorial and municipal), along with basic information on each, and links to government sites where the entrepreneur can learn more and, in some cases, apply online.

Business Data Lab

This joint initiative provides data insights for businesses to drive innovation and growth. Small business owners can leverage this tool in order to make more informed decisions.

Selling to the Government of Canada

Provides information, tools and help to complete the tasks related to selling to the Government of Canada, such as understanding how to sell to the Government, registering the business, or finding seminars about the process.

2) Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Women Entrepreneurship Strategy

The Women Entrepreneurship Strategy is a whole-of government initiative to boost women-owned businesses by enhancing their access to finance via a loan fund, networks, and expertise. It offers support and funding through partners like BDC, EDC, and Farm Credit Canada.

Black Entrepreneurship Program

The Black Entrepreneurship Program is a targeted initiative to assist Black entrepreneurs in Canada with access to capital via a loan fund, business services, and collects data to understand the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Futurpreneur

Futurpreneur Canada is a national, not-for-profit organization that provides financing, mentoring, and business support tools to young entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 39.

2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program

The 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program supports entrepreneurs with mentorship, advisory services, and networking. It includes a Business Scale Up Program, an Ecosystem Fund, and a Knowledge Hub.

Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program

The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program in Canada offers Indigenous entrepreneurs funding for business ventures, aiming to increase Indigenous-owned businesses through capital access and business opportunities.

3) Access to Capital

Canada Small Business Financing Program

The CSBFP assists small businesses in securing financing by sharing risk with lenders. It offers up to $1,000,000 in term loans and $150,000 in credit lines for various expenses.

Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI)

The Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative co-invests with private investors in VC funds to boost the Canadian VC industry.

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)

BDC supports Canadian entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises, by providing a full spectrum of financial support and non-financial support, including consulting services.

4) Exporting

Export Development Canada (EDC)

EDC know the right resources and tools will help you grow your business internationally. No matter the stage of your journey, we’re here to help your company unlock its potential and discover the export impact. 

Trade Commissioner Service

The Trade Commissioner Service helps Canadian businesses grow by connecting them with funding and support programs, international opportunities, and the Trade Commissioner Service’s network of trade commissioners in over 160 cities worldwide.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Thought Leadership & Policy/Advocacy Initiatives

· Read our submission for the pre-budget consultations ahead of Budget 2025. 

· Read our statement on Minister LeBlanc’s plan to remove trade barriers within Canada. 

· Read our statement on the entry of Chinese EVs into the Canadian market and it implications for economic security. 

· Read our letter to the Industrial Inquiry Commission regarding long-shoring labour disputes at Canada’s West Coast ports. 

· Read our submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities for their study of Bill C-33. 

... 

· Read our Senior Economist’s commentary on Canada’s 0.2% GDP increase in May and his outlook for the coming months.  

2024 Ontario Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Wins

Read some of the recent advocacy wins within the Ontario Chamber of Commerce below.

Addressing Ontario’s Labour Needs by Banning the Use of Canadian Experience

Ask: In its 2022, 2023, and 2024 Provincial Budget submissions, the OCC urged the government to remove barriers for internationally trained professionals, focus on attracting and retaining skilled labor in high-demand sectors, and eliminate redundant requirements for Canadian work experience and language proficiency testing.

Win: In March 2024, the Working For Workers Four Act, 2023 received Royal Assent. The bill bans the use of Canadian experience as a requirement in job postings or application forms to enable qualified workers to fill highly in-demand jobs, especially in health care. Read the release: "Ontario Passes Fourth Working for Workers Act."

...

Addressing Mental Health and Addiction Challenges in Indigenous Communities

Ask: In the OCC’s 2024 Provincial Budget Submission, we call on the Government of Ontario to work with Indigenous business leaders and communities to review and bolster the effectiveness of existing Indigenous mental health and business programs and pave a path for an Indigenous mental health strategy.  

Win: In Budget 2024, the government announced $60 million over three years to maintain mental health and addiction services, including clinical support, community mental health and opioid programming for Indigenous and Northern Ontario communities.

...

Removing Barriers to Capital for Diverse Entrepreneurs

Ask: In the OCC’s She-covery Report, we called on the government to work with financial institutions to support diverse entrepreneurs by removing barriers that limit their access to capital.

Win: Through Budget 2024, the Government of Canada is providing $200 million to increase access to venture capital for equity-deserving entrepreneurs, and to invest in underserved communities and those outside of key metropolitan hubs. An additional $60 million will be provided for Futurpreneur Canada to provide young entrepreneurs with access to financing, mentorship, and other business support to help them launch and grow their businesses. 

Funding Opportunities: Federal Business Benefits Finder

Businesses can access hundreds of Federal government funding programs and services quickly and easily with the Business Benefits Finder, whether you're a startup, expanding, or looking to optimize operations. Learn more here.

Ontario Business Resource

Learn how to register your business, apply for funding and tax credits, and get free help to start your business. Click here for more information.

The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce represents the interests of 600 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.