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VICTORIA, B.C. – The 48th edition of the Greater Victoria Flower Count ended on March 15 with a multi-billion bloom bouquet. Community and elementary school engagement were strong, with 33.4 billion blossoms counted over the week-long event. The winner of “Bloomingest” community this year is Sidney, with a total of 7.58 billion blossoms counted. The runner-up community this year is North Saanich, with 7.56 billion blossoms counted. Elementary school participation is a major component of Greater Victoria Flower Count. This year’s winning elementary school class is Ms. Jessica Manness’s class at Hillcrest Elementary School in Saanich. The Grade 4 class counted 1.56 billion blossoms and has won a special trip via L.A. Limousines to the ultimate floral experience at Butchart Gardens. (max. cohort/class size of 30). The winner of the photo contest draw will be notified by end of day March 15. Flower Count is rooted in a tourism promotion started by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in the 1960s. In those days, a delegation would dress in Victorian-era clothing and hand-deliver daffodils to people to Prairie cities. The publicity stunt generated favourable coverage of our region as a desirable destination. The event shifted in 1975 to having residents count flowers, and the fun but spirited contest continues to this day. “Our civic pride is in full bloom today,” Sidney Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith said. “Our warmth and vibrancy as a community is reflected in the devotion shown by our municipal staff, who beautify our parks and boulevards, and our residents who take so much care in their yards and gardens." “Congratulations to Hillcrest Elementary school and Ms. Jessica Manness’s class on winning this year’s Greater Victoria Flower Count,” said Paul Nursey – CEO, Destination Greater Victoria. “This was a special flower count for the visitor economy. We are welcoming back visitors with open arms and want them to enjoy everything Greater Victoria has to offer. This includes our numerous flowers and gardens.” “It was great to see our community come together for another successful Greater Victoria Flower Count,” said Bruce Williams – CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. “The blooms were out and residents responded by submitting their counts from across the region. Congratulations to Sidney and Ms. Manness and thank you to our sponsors and prize donors for making it such a great event.” Sponsorship and Support: The 48th annual Greater Victoria Flower Count is proudly sponsored and supported by Destination Greater Victoria, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Butchart Gardens, Fairmont Empress, Black Press, Used Victoria, CHEK, John Overall, Ocean 98.5, and L.A. Limousines. The Bloomingest community will be announced on CHEK News at 5 p.m. on March 15. Backgrounders Elementary School Contest Details: Students in this year’s winning class will win a trip to Butchart Gardens travelling in style via L.A. Limousines:. (max. cohort/class size of 30) Social Media Contest Details: Entrants received one (1) entry by tagging #FlowerCount in related garden and floral posts on Instagram. The winner by direct message on March 15, 2023. Our winner will enjoy the time-honored tradition of Fairmont Empress Afternoon Tea for you and a guest! Enjoy a seasonal menu of savoury tea sandwiches, fresh scones with fruit preserves and cream, and a selection of mouth-watering sweets as you look out over the natural beauty of the Inner Harbour. Hunting for hidden blooms: Used.ca hosted a contest to find the bloom during Flower Count Week. Each day one lucky person went home with a fabulous prize package packed in a Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce #ShopLocal bag filled with local goodies sourced by Destination Greater Victoria including a Goldilocks Goods beeswax food wrap, Silk Road Tea sampling kit, an assortment of Rogers’ Chocolates, honey from Country Bee Honey Farm, and a seasoning blend from Kove Ocean Foods to make your meal a success. The goodie bag will also include a $25 gift card to a local restaurant. As Flower Count comes to a close, a grand prize winner will be chosen to receive all of the items above plus a Pacific FC swag bag and a $50 gift card to Barb’s Fish and Chips. About Fairmont Empress Recognized as one of the Top 21 Iconic Hotels in the World by National Geographic Traveler magazine and honored by Travel + Leisure Magazine’s World’s Best Awards for Top 3 City Hotels in Canada, Fairmont Empress is located in Victoria, BC overlooking the city’s sparkling Inner Harbour. A Forbes Four-Star, AAA Four-Diamond property that offers 431 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, Willow Stream Spa with signature West Coast experiences, and Q at the Empress featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine, award-winning wine list and regionally focused cocktail culture. World-famous Tea at the Empress is served in the Lobby Lounge with stunning harbor views. The Grande Dame property completed a $60+ million restoration in 2017 that celebrated its proud history while moving the hotel into a new era of modern luxury and transforming the iconic property into a must-visit destination. In 2023, the property introduced a revamped Fairmont Gold Experience, including a major renovation to the Fairmont Gold lounge and conversion of 22 rooms to Gold Experience rooms. Located on Vancouver Island, Canada’s Castle on the Coast is the ideal starting point to explore British Columbia’s stunning natural and expansive beauty. About Destination Greater Victoria Destination Greater Victoria (Greater Victoria Visitors and Convention Bureau) is our region’s official, not-for-profit destination marketing organization working in partnership with nearly 1,000 businesses and municipalities in Greater Victoria. About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development, and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Megson FitzPatrick (soon to be Acera Insurance), Berwick Retirement Companies, BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, H2 Accelerator, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Starlight Investments, TD Canada Trust, TELUS Business, Times Colonist and the University of Victoria. Find out more at Victoriachamber.ca.
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 Destination Greater Victoria’s Paul Nursey, left, on the lawn of the Empress with Colwood Councillor Dave Grove, Fairmont Empress’s Victoria Dyson and Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce’s Bruce Williams. VICTORIA, B.C. – The Pacific Ocean wields immense influence over the weather, regulating Greater Victoria’s famous mild climate and warming the air deep into Central Canada. It’s why our region is typically the first in the country to experience the signs of spring. The phenomenon gave rise 48 years ago to a tradition that continues to this day. The 2023 Greater Victoria Flower Count — which officially begins Wednesday — kicked off today with speeches on the immaculate front lawns of the Fairmont Empress Hotel. “Guests can unwind with a leisurely walk through our famous flower-filled grounds, lined with blooming beds flitting with butterflies and well-manicured greenery, maintained year-round by our hardworking gardening team,” Fairmont Empress Director of Sales and Marketing Victoria Dyson said. “The Empress front lawns are one of the most photographed in Victoria. In spring, the bright tulips and cherry blossoms waving in the breeze are nothing short of dazzling, and in summer, the fragrant Rose Garden is a guest and local favourite.” Flower Count is an annual family friendly event that encourages residents of Greater Victoria to show their civic pride by recording the number of blossoms they see in their municipality. School children in Grade 4 and 5 are asked to hone their math skills in a flower counting contest that runs during the same one-week period. This year, flower counting season runs from 7 a.m., March 8, until 3:30 p.m., March 15. The early signs of spring in B.C.’s capital are the envy of Canadians from colder parts of the country, noted CHEK News Weather Anchor Ed Bain. “It's been a long winter — unless you live here,” said Bain with his characteristic good humour. “As usual, Victoria is the first to open the door to spring. The warm Pacific flow and spring flowers are here now. How about you?” Flower Count is rooted in a tourism promotion started by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in the 1960s. In those days, a delegation would dress in Victorian-era clothing and hand-deliver daffodils to people to Prairie cities. The publicity stunt generated favourable coverage of our region as a desirable destination. The event shifted in 1975 to having residents count flowers, and the fun but spirited contest continues to this day. “Destination Greater Victoria has long been a partner and supporter of Flower Count,” Destination Greater Victoria president and CEO Paul Nursey said. “This beloved tradition not only welcomes spring in our region and showcases Greater Victoria's mild climate to the rest of Canada, it also raises awareness about the strong advantage of visiting Victoria or hosting a conference or sporting event in Greater Victoria at this time of year." After all the blossoms are recorded, a final tally will determine Greater Victoria’s “Bloomingest” community. Last year, 27.9 billion flowers were counted in the region, with the City of Colwood earning top honours for its 9.6 billion blooms. The school prize went to students at Prospect Lake Elementary School. “We all can use a little joy right now, and it’s always good for the soul to take time to smell — and count — the flowers,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “We see Flower Count as an opportunity to share our good fortune of living on Canada’s Pacific coast with other Canadians, and let them know that spring in on the way for them too. Just not as soon as it is here 😊.” Flower counts can be submitted by the public at flowercount.ca. The count can be followed from March 8-15 by searching for the official handle (@FlowerCount) on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Policy and Strategic Communications Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca Tips for Counting Blossoms Here are a few shortcuts you can use:
The 48th annual Greater Victoria Flower Count is proudly sponsored and supported by Destination Greater Victoria, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Butchart Gardens, Fairmont Empress, Black Press, Used Victoria, CHEK, John Overall, Ocean 98.5, and L.A. Limousines. The Bloomingest community will be announced on CHEK News at 5 p.m. on March 15. Backgrounders Elementary School Contest Details: Students in this year’s winning class will win a trip to Butchart Gardens travelling in style via L.A. Limousines:. (max. cohort/class size of 30) Social Media Contest Details: Receive one (1) entry by tagging #FlowerCount in related garden and floral posts on Instagram. Multiple entries will not increase chances of winning. Entrant must have a public Instagram account and we must be able to notify the winner by direct message on March 17, 2023. Note: To be eligible, your Instagram account must be public so we can see that you have tagged #FlowerCount. Official hashtag: #FlowerCount. Tag us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. If declared the winner, you will enjoy the time-honored tradition of Fairmont Empress Afternoon Tea for you and a guest! Enjoy a seasonal menu of savoury tea sandwiches, fresh scones with fruit preserves and cream, and a selection of mouth-watering sweets as you look out over the natural beauty of the Inner Harbour. Hunting for hidden blooms: Used.ca will be hosting a contest to find the bloom during Flower Count Week. Each day one lucky person will be going home with a fabulous prize package packed in a Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce #ShopLocal bag filled with local goodies sourced by Destination Greater Victoria including a Goldilocks Goods beeswax food wrap, Silk Road Tea sampling kit, an assortment of Rogers’ Chocolates, honey from Country Bee Honey Farm, and a seasoning blend from Kove Ocean Foods to make your meal a success. The goodie bag will also include a $25 gift card to a local restaurant. On the final day of Flower Count, a grand prize winner will be chosen to receive all of the items above plus a Pacific FC swag bag and a $50 gift card to Barb’s Fish and Chips. About Fairmont Empress
Recognized as one of the Top 21 Iconic Hotels in the World by National Geographic Traveler magazine and honored by Travel + Leisure Magazine’s World’s Best Awards for Top 3 City Hotels in Canada, Fairmont Empress is located in Victoria, BC overlooking the city’s sparkling Inner Harbour. A Forbes Four-Star, AAA Four-Diamond property that offers 431 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, Willow Stream Spa with signature West Coast experiences, and Q at the Empress featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine, award-winning wine list and regionally focused cocktail culture. World-famous Tea at the Empress is served in the Lobby Lounge with stunning harbor views. The Grande Dame property completed a $60+ million restoration in 2017 that celebrated its proud history while moving the hotel into a new era of modern luxury and transforming the iconic property into a must-visit destination. In 2023, the property introduced a revamped Fairmont Gold Experience, including a major renovation to the Fairmont Gold lounge and conversion of 22 rooms to Gold Experience rooms. Located on Vancouver Island, Canada’s Castle on the Coast is the ideal starting point to explore British Columbia’s stunning natural and expansive beauty. About Destination Greater Victoria Destination Greater Victoria (Greater Victoria Visitors and Convention Bureau) is our region’s official, not-for-profit destination marketing organization working in partnership with nearly 1,000 businesses and municipalities in Greater Victoria. About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development, and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Megson FitzPatrick (soon to be Acera Insurance), Berwick Retirement Companies, BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, H2 Accelerator, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Starlight Investments, TD Canada Trust, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at Victoriachamber.ca. VICTORIA, B.C. – The provincial government unveiled its 2023 budget today with a focus on addressing many of the symptoms of unaffordability affecting British Columbians. However, there was a lack of new investment aimed at improving the province’s business climate.
B.C. Minister of Finance Katrine Conroy, who will meet with Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce members tomorrow, said global inflation and the lingering effects of the pandemic are contributing to systemic challenges that make life less affordable for British Columbians. The province is forecasting deficits for the next three years but has chosen to increase spending this year. The $3.6 billion surplus left over from last year needs to be spent by March 31, and will be used for a number of projects currently in the works. Details of that spending will be made available in the coming weeks. Among the highlights of BC Budget 2023 are $1 billion in new money for mental health and addiction services, new funding to improve food security and the $480 million Future Ready Plan, which will help employees gain the skills needed by employers. “The Chamber has heard from our members that they need help finding and keeping workers, and they want more done to ensure safe communities for all,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said, noting there are also annual increases to the Carbon Tax, which will add to the cost of doing business. “This budget will help by addressing symptoms of unaffordability through the renter’s tax credit, school food programs and a significant increase to healthcare funding. It’s a start but we would have liked to see BC Budget 2023 give a higher profile to the role business plays in improving the quality of life for all British Columbians. Businesses are the ones who make the investments needed to build resilience and create real solutions to affordability.” The budget includes $119 million over three years to help cover the cost of prescription contraception, and $87 million to target repeat offenders and individuals who have an outsized responsibility for crime in our communities. “Minister Conroy promised to invest in policing and mental health and addiction treatment, which are key components to have the safe communities we all need to be our best at home and at work,” Williams said. “I’m looking forward to learning more about how this money will be used in Greater Victoria.” Chamber celebrates its past, present and future with 160th anniversary event at Royal BC Museum2/9/2023 VICTORIA, BC – More than 300 people gathered at the Royal BC Museum tonight to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the founding of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 9, 1863.
The evening included exhibits highlighting the Chambers' past, present and future. “It’s a bit awe inspiring to know we’re carrying on a tradition of effective advocacy that dates back to 1863,” Chamber chair Kris Wirk said. “Our celebration at the Royal BC Museum and all of the activities planned for our 160th are an opportunity for The Chamber to support our members by building good business and great community for all.” The Chamber was formed in the age of steamships and gold rushes when waves of new arrivals settled in the region seeking better lives for themselves and their families. The Chamber’s earliest efforts were to promote the region as a hub for culture, finance and shipping. It was a time for adventure as well as profound disruption. Many of those stories are included in The Chamber 1863 web project, a special endeavour that highlights the history of commerce and the many communities that contributed to the growth of commerce in our region. It can be experienced at Victoriachamber.ca/the-chamber-1863. “It’s important to understand where you’ve been before you plan where you’re going. Looking back helps us move forward as we strive to be the region’s most diverse and influential business association,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “By understanding our history, and the lived experiences of the communities that contributed to growing business in our region, we are creating an inclusive economy that is adding resilience to our workforce.” As part of our forward planning, the Greater Victoria Chamber 1863 Impact Award was announced in November and will provide local post-secondary students a total of $160,000 to help build the next generation of skilled workers. Find out more at Victoriachamber.ca/impact-award. The anniversary evening marked the start of year-long celebrations and projects commemorating The Chamber’s 160 years of being the voice of business in Greater Victoria. About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Megson FitzPatrick (soon to be Acera Insurance), Berwick Retirement Companies, BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, H2 Accelerator, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Starlight Investments, TD Canada Trust, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at Victoriachamber.ca. Event photos will be available at: https://www.victoriachamber.ca/event-photos-2023.html#160 Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Policy and Strategic Communications Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca VICTORIA, BC – Mandy Farmer is the recipient of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Award of Distinction.
The President and CEO of Accent Inns and Hotel Zed, Farmer was nominated for being a visionary who is passionate about her employees, embraces an inclusive workplace and is “just a super-nice, down-to-earth person.” The Award of Distinction highlights a businessperson who has contributed to Greater Victoria through leadership and vision as a positive role model and a sustained commitment to a prosperous community. An independent panel of prominent business leaders serve as judges. “Mandy is a great representative of all the things this award stands for,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “The judges had to make a difficult decision with a number of highly qualified nominees, but I think everyone can agree that Mandy is an excellent choice and has been truly inspirational for so many of her peers in Greater Victoria’s business community.” Farmer leads a family business that operates five Accent Inns throughout B.C., as well as Hotel Zed accommodations in Victoria, Kelowna and Tofino. A 2020 winner of RBC's Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award, Farmer has been an Hon. Captain of the Royal Canadian Navy and has served on a number of boards and committees. Her authentic approach with customers and staff over the course of the pandemic has resonated throughout the community and across industries. “Being recognized by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce as having a positive influence in our community means so much to me as a third-generation family business owner,” Farmer said. “I believe employers have a responsibility to take care of our people and the communities within which we work. Our purpose at Accent Inns and Hotel Zed is to Lead with Love to Radically Enrich Lives. This means that we focus on making sure our team is happy and healthy, and that love extends to our communities. Thank you for this incredible honour. I share it with my team.” The Chamber's Award of Distinction, sponsored by the Times Colonist, will be officially celebrated at the 2023 Greater Victoria Business Awards, which feature 14 categories recognizing organizations that have distinguished themselves through excellent customer service, innovation and sustainable business practices. In November 2022, Ann Squires Ferguson was announced as Chamber Member of the Year for 2023. The Chamber's 2023 Business Awards will be held in May at the Fairmont Empress. The event will also be broadcast on CHEK TV. Nominations are open until Jan. 18. The 2023 Greater Victoria Business Awards are sponsored by Coast Capital Savings, Royal Roads University, Times Colonist, Air Canada, BCLC, Camosun College, Canadian Tire, Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, City of Victoria, Futurpreneur, Grant Thornton, Innvo8 Digital Solutions Inc., Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, PARC Retirement Living, CHEK, and The Number Creative. About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Megson FitzPatrick (soon to be Acera Insurance), Berwick Retirement Companies, BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, H2 Accelerator, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca. Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Policy and Strategic Communications Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca VICTORIA, BC – The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its 2023 Board of Directors.
Kris Wirk, with Dusanj + Wirk Chartered Professional Accountants, will take on the role of Board Chair, while Christina Clarke from the Indigenous Prosperity Centre becomes the new Vice-Chair. After serving for the past three years as Chair, John Wilson assumes the role of Past Chair. The Chamber’s 2023 board consists of established and emerging business and community leaders who will work with Chamber committees and staff. Board members are elected for two-year terms, and there were six positions up for election for 2023. Voting was from Sept. 8 to Oct. 6. The Chamber’s mission is to serve Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking events, professional development and other unique activities. The Chamber’s vision is to become the region’s most diverse and influential business association. Find out more at VictoriaChamber.ca. Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 2023 Board of Directors
“Chamber members and Greater Victoria’s business community will be well served by the stability, expertise and leadership experience that the 2023 board of directors brings to the table,” incoming Chamber Chair Kris Wirk said. “Our previous chair, John Wilson, did a remarkable job of guiding the organization through the pandemic. I’m excited about getting to work and helping The Chamber achieve our vision for 2023.” “Kris will be a dynamic chair and I am ready to support him in any way he needs,” Past Chamber Chair John Wilson said. “It has been nothing if not a memorable three years dealing with the challenges of the pandemic. We have come through this stronger than ever and we are prepared for any challenge that comes our way.” About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Megson FitzPatrick (soon to be Acera Insurance), Berwick Retirement Companies, BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, H2 Accelerator, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca. Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Policy and Strategic Communications Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca   Ann Squires Ferguson VICTORIA – Ann Squires Ferguson has been named Chamber Member of the Year for 2023 by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. "I am beyond grateful for this honour — it is overwhelming to be recognized by so many who I hold in such high esteem,” said Squires Ferguson, CEO of Western Design + Build and a Chamber Board member. “This year has held many challenges for me personally, with a bout of ovarian cancer, and, through it all, I have been buoyed by every kind word of encouragement, every thoughtful gift, every act of support. Our business community is an incredible example of true connection, generosity and compassion. Their collective optimism has carried me through.” Squires Ferguson has been a passionate voice as The Chamber strives to achieves its vision of being the region’s most diverse and influential business association. “I do want to honour our local business leaders’ commitment to the important work that The Chamber is doing around Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Advancement and with the Indigenous Reconciliation Roundtable,’ she said. “When we lift each other up, when we all come together, our whole community is so much stronger, more vibrant and resilient." The Chamber Member of the Year award, sponsored by Air Canada, recognizes an individual who has served as a volunteer at The Chamber, has taken an active role with the board or committees, fosters relationships with the community and advocates on behalf of business. Western Design + Build won in the category of Business Leadership at the 2017 Greater Victoria Business Awards. Squires Ferguson was elected to The Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2021, and serves on The Chamber’s Ambassador committee as well as The Chamber’s Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Advancement (IDEA) committee. “Ann has been an incredible resource for our board and committees,” Chamber Chair John Wilson says. “She is in-tune with the times during a period of profound change and we’re lucky to have someone who is so passionate and committed to making sure we show leadership in ensuring we have a great community for all.” “Ann has inspired us all with her resilience in managing her cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as her ongoing insightful and thoughtful input to her Chamber role” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. The recipient of The Chamber’s Award of Distinction, which honours a Chamber member for outstanding leadership and innovation, will be announced in January. Recipients are chosen for inspiring others and adding resilience to Greater Victoria’s economy. Give the Gift of Recognition this holiday season by nominating a business or business leader for the 2022 Greater Victoria Business Awards. Nominations for 12 categories are open now until Jan. 18, 2023. From innovation to sustainability to being an outstanding workplace, nominating a business you love, own or work for is fast and easy. For more information, go to victoriachamber.ca/business-awards. About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca. Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Policy and Strategic Communications Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca VICTORIA, BC – Helping people gain the skills needed to find success and contribute to Greater Victoria’s workforce is vital to ensuring our region’s economy remains robust for years to come.
It’s been a central theme of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce since it was founded in 1863 and will remain a focus as the organization celebrates its 160th anniversary next year. “Chamber leadership feels strongly about making a difference that is tangible as well as aspirational, so we’re proud to announce the new 1863 Impact Award for post-secondary students,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “Investing in ambitious and motivated students is one way we can make a positive contribution to a person’s life. Doing so also helps that person gain the skills and tools needed to one day join the business community and help build a better community.” A total of $160,000 will be distributed over a multi-year term to establish entrance awards for post-secondary students, with the University of Victoria receiving $90,000, Camosun College getting $45,000 and Royal Roads University $25,000. Each school will manage the selection of award recipients as well as the specific timing of their process. In 2023, 13 students who meet the criteria will receive awards, which will be available for many years to come. UVic, Camosun and Royal Roads expressed gratitude for the value placed on education by The Chamber. “At UVic, we're committed to contributing to a better future for people, places and the planet,” UVic President and Vice-Chancellor Kevin said. “This commitment aligns closely with The Chamber's work to support business leaders and ensure growth and prosperity in Southern Vancouver Island. Your vision and leadership in the community has helped to propel aspiring leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.” “Camosun programs provide real-life, experiential education for all learners,” Camosun College President Dr. Lane Trotter said. “The college is committed to working together and building a great community for all. Thank you to The Chamber for inspiring life-changing learning for Camosun students. Awards like this help to reduce the barriers to education so many students face across the region.” “The road to completing a university education is never easy," RRU President Philip Steenkamp said. “Helping out students with these awards is a wonderful way to mark this special anniversary for the Victoria Chamber and the funds will make someone’s journey at Royal Roads be the life-changing, world-expanding, change-making experience it should be.” Greater Victoria Chamber 1863 Impact Award Amount per award: $2,000 Number of awards: Varies by institution (University of Victoria, Camosun College, Royal Roads University) Application period:
General Eligibility The award is open to all students beginning their studies at: the University of Victoria, Camosun College, or Royal Roads University. Each post-secondary institution will have slightly different criteria; however, preference is given to the following:
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Cold Star Solutions, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca. Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Senior Manager Strategic Communications and Policy Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca VICTORIA, BC – Dressed up in their finest formal wear, almost 500 people celebrated Greater Victoria’s legends of business Wednesday night at the Victoria Conference Centre.
The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce’s launch of the Business Hall of Fame presented by RBC came after more than a year of planning and a few pandemic-related delays. The wait was worth it. The inspirational stories of triumph and accomplishment drew loud applause and even a few tears of joy as the first inductees into the Business Hall of Fame took their place among our region’s pantheon of entrepreneurial excellence. “This has been an amazing night. We’ve been anticipating this for so long and it truly delivered for everyone who was here,” Chamber Chair John Wilson said. “Our business community was tested by the pandemic. I’m not going to lie — it was tough for a lot of people. So having a celebration of business in Greater Victoria was cathartic. It’s so good to be together with the many people who have played key roles in the development of our region’s economy. These are legends who deserve to be honoured so they can inspire all of us going forward.” An independent selection committee chose the inaugural inductees: Chief Robert Sam, Helen Beirnes, Clare Copeland, Ron Lou-Poy and Ian Maxwell. The group takes its place alongside previous winners of The Chamber’s Lifetime Achievement Business Award: Bill McCreadie, Gordy Dodd, Eric Charman, Mel Cooper, Murray and Lynda Farmer, Naz Rayani, Bob Skene, Keith Dagg, Terry Farmer, Cedric Steele, Gordon Denford, Alex A. Campbell, Robert H. Wright and John Chew. “The Business Hall of Fame was an idea I had to create a proper avenue to preserve and honour the work of leaders who paved the way for so many businesses to be successful in Greater Victoria,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “We built on that idea with amazing insight from our Chamber Champions and direction from our board. I can’t say enough about the work Chamber staff has done to make this night happen. We’re truly grateful for everyone on the events team, our volunteers and RBC for presenting the event and making the inaugural Business Hall of Fame gala so successful.” Now that a foundational cohort of community leaders are in place, the next step for the Business Hall of Fame is to begin selecting the next inductees for 2024. Planning is also underway for a permanent instalment accessible to the public. Every two years, new inductees will be honoured as positive role models in the business community. Inductees are selected for showing regional leadership, insightful vision and a sustained and significant commitment to the prosperity of our region. The process to select inductees recognizes and respects the diversity of leaders who helped build business in Greater Victoria over the decades. For more information on The Chamber’s Business Hall of Fame, including profiles of the inductees, go to victoriachamber.ca/business-hall-of-fame. For access to high-resolution photos from the evening, email communications@victoriachamber.ca.
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca. Media Contact: Jim Zeeben, Communications and Project Manager Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca VICTORIA, BC – We often hear small businesses called the backbone of a community. The fact is there is nothing small about the group of businesses that employ more than half of all British Columbians. When you shop at a locally owned business, you are investing in the quality of life of your hometown. The dollars that go to local businesses recirculate in the community about 4.6 times more than the same money spent at corporations that have head offices far away or even in other countries.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and heartbeat of our downtown,” Downtown Victoria Business Association Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bray said. “Small Business Month provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the unique, vibrant and creative businesses that make up our downtown small business community.” “Small business month is an important time to reflect on the importance of and to double down on supporting our amazing small businesses,” Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps said. “Our small businesses are a key character-defining feature of our downtown and our city. This month and always I encourage residents to pop in and visit them in person and resist the temptation of the online non-local alternative.” Throughout October, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating Small Business Month, sponsored by Grant Thornton. “We really experienced how important it is to spend locally over the last two years. Our support of businesses operated by friends and neighbours made a real difference in helping many make it through challenging times,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “This October, I encourage everyone to express their support by doing business locally — and by expressing gratitude to business owners for all they do to support our community.” To learn more about the events and activities The Chamber has planned for Small Business Month, go to victoriachamber.ca. “Small businesses empower our community by bringing people together, creating jobs, and helping our economy thrive,” Grant Thornton LLP partner Kyman Chan said, noting his firm is helping small businesses weather the current inflationary storm and plan for future growth. “We’re proud to support the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and businesses within the region during Small Business Month, and beyond.” Every year, the DVBA highlights approximately 30 small businesses by introducing them on social media and writing dedicated blog posts. Visit dvba.ca/smallbusinessmonth to meet some hardworking business owners within downtown Victoria’s small business community. About Downtown Victoria Business Association The Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) focuses on nurturing and promoting the vitality and vibrancy of downtown Victoria and its business community. Through advocacy, marketing, events, and the fantastic Clean Team, the DVBA supports downtown businesses and encourages Victorians to experience Victoria’s beautiful core area. Visit dvba.ca to learn more. About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK News, CIBC, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Spinnakers, TELUS Business, and the University of Victoria. Find out more at: victoriachamber.ca. Media Contacts: Jim Zeeben, Communications and Project Manager Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca Jeff Bray, Chief Executive Officer Downtown Victoria Business Association 250-386-2239 | jeff@downtownvictoria.ca |
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