Advocacy

The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce is clearly outlining its priorities for the upcoming 2024 Federal Budget for local Members of Parliament.

“The Tri-Cities Chamber urges our locally elected MPs to work toward a budget that will support business, particularly SMEs, that are the backbone of our economy,” said Leslie Courchesne, CEO of the Tri-Cities Chamber. “As we continue to face economic challenges and uncertainties, Ottawa must create the conditions for businesses to thrive, and communities to flourish.”

The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce is urging a swift end to the labour dispute that has halted bus and SeaBus service across the region.

“Our local businesses have suffered far too many disruptions and challenges over the past few years, and this transit strike is yet another brutal blow to our local economy,” said Leslie Courchesne, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has released its ‘What We Heard’ findings for its Inclusive Growth Dialogue collaborations with the Tri-Cities and Guelph Chambers of Commerce earlier this fall.

Last week, the federal government released its Fall Economic Statement. While there were some positive announcements for business, an extension to the Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) loan repayment deadline was not one of them.

The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce is urging local businesses and community members to sign the online petition urging the federal government to extend the partial loan forgiveness deadline for CEBA (Canadian Emergency Business Account) small business loans.

The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce applauds the BC Government’s vandalism rebate program to help small businesses with the costs of repairing broken glass, removing graffiti, and vandalism prevention measures. Starting November 22, businesses will be able to apply for up to $5,000 from the $10.5 million fund.

The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce applauds the BC Government’s introduction of the International Credentials Recognition Act. If passed, it will enable people in 29 professions who have done their education and training abroad to get into BC’s workforce faster.

Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce CEO Leslie Courchesne and Board Director Jennifer McKinnon attended the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting and Convention in Calgary, October 12-14.

The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce applauds BC Premier David Eby for joining the fight to get a CEBA loan repayment extension for small businesses by signing a joint letter to the Prime Minister today.

The City of Coquitlam and City of Port Moody Councils welcomed Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce CEO Leslie Courchesne to present an annual update. The Coquitlam Council-in-Committee delegation took place September 11, and Port Moody City Council’s on September 12.