March Membership Drive

Spring is in the air, and so are exciting perks for new and referring members during our March Membership Drive!

🌟 New Members:

Join the Chamber in March and enjoy:

✅ A special social media shoutout (Facebook & Instagram) once you've signed up and paid.

✅ Get ONE free professional headshot from Jen at Purple Moose Portraits! We will be hosting a Headshot Day on March 31st from 1–3 PM for all new members in March.

✅ Two chances to win! Your name will be entered into:

• A draw for two tickets to Theatre Northwest’s annual Scotch Social 🍻
• A grand prize draw for an epic membership package including:
• 14 months for the price of 12
• 1-year enhanced directory listing
• 1 free member feature on our website
• 1 ticket to the 40th BEAs (Business Excellence Awards)!

🌟 Already a Member? We've Got You Covered!

Refer a new member by:

✅ Tagging them on our Membership Drive social media posts OR have them list you as their referral when they sign up. Your name will be entered into:

• A grand prize draw for an epic membership package including:
• 14 months for the price of 12
• 1-year enhanced directory listing
• 1 free member feature on our website
• 1 ticket to the 40th BEAs (Business Excellence Awards)! 🎉

✅ Top Referrer Bonus: The member who refers the most new businesses will win 2 tickets to the Scotch Social! 🍻

Help grow our Chamber community and enjoy some fantastic perks along the way! Ready to join or refer?

Reach out to Colleen Sparrow today to learn more about joining the chamber at membership@pgchamber.bc.ca

Thanks for an Amazing First B2B Expo

The B2B Expo was a fantastic success, bringing businesses together for a day of networking, collaboration, and growth! Attendees connected with industry leaders, explored innovative products and services, and gained valuable insights to help their businesses thrive. The energy in the room was electric, and it’s all thanks to our incredible business community!

A huge THANK YOU to our amazing sponsors—your support made this event possible! We appreciate your commitment to fostering business success in our region.

Missed the event? Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect and grow with us!

Spring Recreation Radar

Opportunities Available for the

2025 TrueNorth Business Development Forum!

This year’s theme: "How Young Professionals Power Tomorrow’s Industry" 💡✨

Sponsorship opportunities are still available—don’t miss your chance to support this incredible event and connect with the next generation of industry leaders!

🎟 Tickets are available now!

✅ Chamber members: $250 +Tax

✅ Future members: $285 +Tax

Interested in sponsoring? Reach out to Colleen Sparrow at membership@pgchamber.bc.ca for details!

A Note from Neil

Hadih and hello.

Most of my colleagues in the BC and Canadian Chamber of Commerce networks are very anxious about the ongoing prospect of the United States slapping tariffs on Canadians goods. Some have noticed my level of concern doesn’t match theirs and have asked me why I seem more calm about it all.

I remind them that Prince George and north-central BC have been fighting the US for decades regarding countervailing duties on BC softwood lumber products entering the US market. That experience has toughened us. The residents of this region, along with its political and business leaders, know full well that America’s economic bullying has to be meet with fierce determination and collaboration. Come what may, we have to stand and work together, regardless of their whining and their threats.

I’ve had to bite my tongue and not ask where the apprehension about US trade tariffs was when we could have used more allies in Vancouver and Victoria and across the country. They knew forestry-dependent regions like ours across Canada were hurting but it wasn’t their priority and they didn’t want that issue to sour what they perceived as otherwise friendly and fruitful relations with our American cousins.

But this is not a “told ya so” moment.

Now that the entire Canadian economy is facing significant harm, particularly the industrial sectors like energy and auto manufacturing that dwarf forestry, the Team Canada approach is the right one, albeit somewhat late for our taste. Expanding into more international markets? Reducing inter-provincial trade barriers? Paying a little more to support local and Canadian businesses and kicking the habit on cheaper American products? Welcome to the party, fellow Canadians. We’re so glad you joined us.

Now let’s get busy working together to strengthen our businesses, our communities, and our country.

All the best,

Neil

A Call for Donations

We're seeking donations for Chamber door prizes and giveaways—and we’d love your support!

Contributing a prize is a wonderful way to show your dedication to our local community. When your donation is used, you’ll be recognized as the door prize or giveaway supporter, ensuring your brand gets the attention it deserves.

Ready to get involved? Reach out to admin@pgchamber.bc.ca today or stop by our office today and help us make our events and 2025 even more memorable!

Welcome New Members

• Remzy Decor and Events
• Auntie Clockwise

Inclusive by Design Webinar

The Prince George Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Hire For Talent, is offering the Inclusive by Design Webinar on March 18th at noon. Hire For Talent is a national awareness campaign aimed at increased employer confidence in hiring people with disabilities and provides resources to help employers tap into this pool of talent during their search for skilled workers.

Sean McEwen, a workplace equity, diversity, inclusion and culture consultant and a director at RealEyes Capacity Consultants, will lead the webinar.

Chamber members attending the webinar can expect to gain practical tips for recruiting, onboarding, and retaining employees from diverse backgrounds, as well as learning simple ways to creating accessible and inclusive workplaces. Chamber members will also receive a $250 honorarium for attending the webinar and completing a survey afterwards.

There are limited spots available for this webinar so register today!

UNBC Faculty of Business and Economics Dinner

The UNBC Faculty of Business and Economics Dinner will be held on Friday March 14, 2025, and will feature David Luba, Head of Partnerships & Co-Founder, tentree | veritree as the keynote speaker. 

Join us for an evening of live jazz music, networking cocktail hour, plated dinner, and inspirational keynote address. It’s a great opportunity to be part of a vibrant community committed to leading positive change and fostering sustainability in business, education, and beyond. 

Event Details (Please see link below to purchase your tickets)

• Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 

• Cocktail Reception: 5:00pm - 6:00pm

• Program & Dinner: 6:00pm

• Location: Coast Prince George Hotel by APA, 770 Brunswick Street, Prince George, BC

Ticket Information:

• Individual: $125.00

• Table: $1,000.00

• Student/ Alumni: $100.00

For more information, visit UNBC Faculty of Business and Economics Dinner page.

JCI Prince George Kickoff: Elevate Your Network, Amplify Your Impact

JCI Prince George is launching, and you’re invited! 🚀

Join us on March 28th from 4:00 - 6:30 PM for an exciting evening of networking, learning, and leadership development. In partnership with the Prince George Chamber of Commerce, this event is designed for young professionals (18-40) looking to expand their networks and connect with JCI’s regional, national, and international community.

What to Expect:

✔️ Networking with like-minded young professionals

✔️ A mini-training on Effective Speaking to boost your confidence and communication skills

✔️ Complimentary appetizers

✔️ Learn how JCI (Jr. Chamber International) can help you develop leadership skills, make an impact locally, and create development opportunities beyond Prince George

Whether you're an entrepreneur, student, or rising professional, this is your chance to build connections and explore new opportunities!

📍 Location: Prince George Chamber Boardroom- 102-1584 7th Ave, Prince George

📅 Date: March 28, 2025

⏰ Time: 4:00 - 6:30 PM

RSVP now to secure your spot! 

JCI (Junior Chamber International) provides leadership development opportunities that empower young people (18-40) to create positive change. With a global network in over 100 countries, JCI helps young professionals grow, lead, and make an impact in their communities. https://jci.cc/ 

The University of Northern British Columbia invites you to attend Entrepreneurship at UNBC

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) invites you to attend Entrepreneurship at UNBC on Thursday, March 6th, 2025. 

This Northern Regional Round Table for an Inclusive Entrepreneurial Future aims to be a transformative gathering bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and industry partners to shape the future of entrepreneurship in northern Canada.

Together we'll discuss the current entrepreneurship landscape and co-create a future for enhanced regional growth and collaboration. We will explore the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, explore actionable steps towards creating opportunities, and envision a path for social and economic growth in the North with a focus on the role UNBC can play. 

Featured Speakers:

• Dr. Gerald Grant, Principal Investigator of the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (BEKH), Carleton University. Keynote speaker, sharing insights on supporting Black entrepreneurs and building inclusive communities.

• Emily Jones Joanisse, Social innovator and CEO of Connected Canadians. Sharing her journey in social innovation and digital inclusion.

Event Structure:

• Morning Session, starting at 9:00 am: Featured speakers and presentations on entrepreneurial ecosystem development and UNBC's current initiatives.

• Afternoon Session, starting at 1:00 pm: Interactive round-table discussions to co-create strategies for an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Food and Refreshments will be provided throughout the day. This event also includes an optional networking opportunity starting at 5:00 pm for those who are 19+, at UNBC Thirsty Moose.

Why Attend?

• Connect with key decision-makers.

• Build strategic partnerships.

• Contribute to sustainable social and economic development in northern Canada.

Register now and share with your network to be a part of co-creating a roadmap for entrepreneurial growth that leverages the unique strengths of Northern BC. Together, we'll build an inclusive ecosystem that benefits everyone in the region.

Member Breakfast Series:

BDC’s Economic Outlook 2025: Trends and Insights for Entrepreneurs

Join us May 15th for our next Member Breakfast featuring BDC’s Economic Outlook 2025! Gain valuable insights into upcoming trends and opportunities that will shape the business landscape for entrepreneurs. Connect with fellow members, enjoy a great breakfast, and get ahead of the game with expert analysis.

Date: May 15th, 2025

Location: Ramada

Cost: Member Fee: $30+Tax

Future Member Fee: $45+Tax

Don’t miss out—secure your spot today!

Quick Question

40th Annual Business Excellence Awards

– Early Bird Tickets Now on Sale! 

Join us on November 1st as we celebrate outstanding businesses and leaders in Prince George at the 40th Annual Business Excellence Awards! This milestone event is your chance to be part of an unforgettable evening recognizing excellence in our business community.

🎟 Early Bird Ticket Rates:

✅ Members: $150 + tax

✅ Future Members: $175 + tax

Early bird pricing is available until June, when nominations officially open—secure your spot now!

🌟 Sponsorship Opportunities Available! 🌟

Want to showcase your business and support this premier event? Sponsorship opportunities are still open! Reach out to Colleen Sparrow at membership@pgchamber.bc.ca to learn more.

Stay tuned for nomination details and event highlights!

Special Offer for BC Chamber Members

Special Offer for Chamber Members

Save on Fuel with Shell Fleet Solutions!

BC Chamber members can save 6¢ per litre at Shell for the first 4 months and 4¢ per litre thereafter. Offer valid until December 31st, 2025.

To Sign Up

Call 1-800-650-4019 or visit businessfleetsolutions.ca/bc

Benefits of Shell Fleet Cards:

Control

• Set limits and know who purchased what, where and when
• View built-in reports detailing all aspects of fuelling activity or customize your own
• Activate, suspend or cancel cards through our online account management program



Convenience

• Use at 1,400+ Shell stations and Shell Flying J locations, or choose the Shell Fleet Navigator card for access anywhere Mastercard® is accepted
• 24/7 customer support whenever you need us, plus dedicated account management
• Access your online account anywhere, anytime

Savings and Rewards

• Discounts on every litre of fuel purchased at Shell locations
• Get AIR MILES® Reward Miles†
• Save up to 32%** off Shell Car Washes at participating locations
• 10% off oil changes and other products and services at Jiffy Lube®††

Security

• Cancel lost or stolen cards instantly in real-time
• Reduce risk of fraud and misuse with driver IDs and purchase controls
• Chip and PIN provides added security (Shell Fleet Navigator only)



Free Webinar: Market Diversification – Expanding Beyond the U.S. Using Canada’s FTAs

Relying solely on the U.S. market is no longer a safe strategy. This session will explore opportunities in global markets and show how businesses can leverage Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like CPTPP, CETA, and USMCA to expand internationally.

Trade experts will break down key export regulations, funding options, and risk management strategies to help companies enter new markets with confidence.

Who should attend?

Businesses seeking international growth, exporters exploring new trade routes, and organizations looking to leverage FTAs for competitive advantage.

Topics to be covered:

• Why Market Diversification Matters
• Leveraging Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for Global Growth
• Financing International Growth
• Success Stories & Case Studies

Free Webinar:

Domestic Trade & Interprovincial Expansion

With shifting trade policies, strengthening domestic supply chains and interprovincial trade is more important than ever. This session will focus on overcoming regulatory barriers, optimizing logistics, and accessing funding programs for Canadian market expansion.

Industry experts will share practical insights on scaling across provinces, navigating procurement challenges, and strengthening business resilience within Canada.

Who should attend?

Businesses looking to expand within Canada, supply chain professionals, and organizations seeking funding and resources for interprovincial trade.

Topics to be covered:

• The Case for Interprovincial Trade
• Navigating Interprovincial Trade Barriers
• Optimizing Domestic Opportunities
• Financing & Support for Domestic Expansion



Partner with the Chamber

Are you looking to showcase your business and connect with Prince George’s business community? The Chamber has openings for Business Showcase Collaborations events throughout 2025! These events are an excellent opportunity to increase visibility, engage with local leaders, and make valuable connections.

Available dates to select from are:

• March 18, 2025
• April 29, 2025
• June 10, 2025
• June 26, 2025
• July 16, 2025
• July 22, 2025
• August 13, 2025
• August 21, 2025
• September 11, 2025
• September 23, 2025
• October 15, 2025
• December 11, 2025

If you’re interested in partnering with us on one of these dates, please reach out to Colleen Sparrow at membership@pgchamber.bc.ca for more information!

Prince George Chamber of Commerce

102-1584 7th Ave, Prince George, BC

(250) 562-4710

Premiere Partner: