Advocacy
Be heard where it matters, when it matters most.
Got An Issue? We’ve Got Solutions.
If you’ve ever had the frustrating experience of being ignored by government, you already understand how valuable it can be to have the connections, the clout and the know-how to get your message heard.
We’ve got the connections. Your Chamber maintains direct relationships with our elected officials and administration in all three levels of government here in Thunder Bay, keeping lines of communication open between business and decision-makers to make sure they’re willing to listen when it’s time to talk.
We’ve got the clout. Not only do we represent the interests of a large community of stakeholder businesses, we work closely with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce to ensure our Members’ voices are heard at the Provincial level. We’re also members of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, which gives us access to Federal decision-makers outside of our own ridings.
We’ve got the know-how. For over a century we’ve served as the policy watchdog for Thunder Bay’s business community, bringing our Members notice of issues that affect our business environment and gathering feedback to develop our “Chamber position” on issues that affect our Member businesses and the economy that drives our community.
And now, you do too. As a Chamber Member, we invite you to bring us your concerns about issues at the City, Provincial and Federal level. It’s our job to understand government policy, but you know your business best. Contact us today and start a conversation – we’re here to help.
Municipal Issues
- the City of Opportunity platform
- planning and permits
- procurement
- taxes
- civic pride
Provincial Issues
- energy policies
- Hydro
- employment law & apprenticeships
- health & safety
- provincial taxes
Federal Issues
- aviation and transportation policies that affect our airport and our port
- import and export taxes that affect our resource industries
- First Nation policies
- Canada Post
- federal taxes
“We had been struggling with a weight restriction issue with the city’s government for over four years with no satisfaction. Then we reached out to the Chamber for support and, suddenly, we had traction.”
Do you need support on an issue? As a Chamber Member, you’ve got access to connections at all three levels of government. Learn more about our advocacy work on behalf of our Members here or contact us to discuss your concern.
Latest Advocacy News
Filter News by Topic
The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce' advocacy work is made possible thanks to the generous support of our Cornerstone Members:
List of Essential Workplaces
The full list of essential services was posted yesterday evening. Please be aware that this list may continue to evolve. We'll attempt to update links to keep you as current as possible. For the purposes of this order, businesses include any for-profit, non-profit...
Free On-Street Parking at Meters
Free On-Street Parking at Meters To facilitate easy and timely pick-up and drop off at local businesses, on street parking at metered spaces is free for a maximum of two hours until April 30. All other parking rules continue to apply. The City will be suspending the...
COVID-19: The Top 5 Things Small Businesses Should Know
COVID-19: The Top 5 Things Small Businesses Should Know These are unprecedented times for all Canadians, and especially for small businesses. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Perrin Beatty, is sharing with you the top 5 things SMEs should know...
Canadian Chamber Calls on Government to Protect Jobs
Canada’s Leading Business Organizations Call on Government to Protect Jobs and Postpone Non-Essential New Measures (OTTAWA) – March 21, 2020 – Four of Canada’s leading business organizations are calling on governments to support a national effort to protect jobs and...
Video: Wage Subsidy & Work-Sharing
A temporary wage subsidy has been announced for small businesses for 3 months, equal to 10% of remuneration paid during that period, up to a maximum subsidy of $1375 per employee and $25,000 per employer. Eligibility for this subsidy includes employers that are...
Letter to City Council: Municipal Supports for Business Community During COVID-19
Mayor & Council City of Thunder Bay Via email Dear Mayor Mauro and Members of Council: Our community, particularly the small business sector, is facing significant challenges and economic impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses have already laid-off...
The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce' advocacy work is made possible thanks to the generous support of our Cornerstone Members: