Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday we heard a message from Janet Riopel, (pictured) CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce (ECC). She spoke of how we live in changing times, where many of the details are unknown, and how this makes for a very challenging environment for businesses of all kinds.

Changes in the economy, provincial government and even the governments of other countries have resulted in wholesale changes being proposed to many different parts of our economy and the economies of our trading partners. The effects of changes to minimum wages, electricity prices and municipal property taxes to international pipeline approvals and trading agreements are all uncertain at present. All of these changes will directly or indirectly affect many local businesses.

The ECC acts as a spokesperson for their 2300 local business members, to present a collective voice and help to cut through the haze that surrounds us. They do this through researching specific issues and championing policies to decision making groups that will promote the welfare of local businesses. They do this by trying to expand business and investor confidence, expand trade and market opportunities and also by expanding partnership opportunities for local businesses. Some issues that they encourage are innovation, diversification, infrastructure investment, better transportation corridors, and access to other markets, both regional and abroad.

Many companies have chosen Edmonton as their home base. The tenacity and drive of local businesses has allowed them to lead, grow and prosper. When businesses come together, as they do in the ECC, we can help to create the best possible environment for business in Edmonton.