A10 SUNDAY, MAY 18, 2025
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timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST
May 2025
A great sunset over the river, Gorge park
Hello and welcome to Spring, T he big news that requires no report out on is the recent federal election – regardless of where you sit politically, that was a nail biter. I am seeing reports of disappointment about polling that influenced strategic voting even though as I followed along, it was stated numerous times that these polls were unreliable. It does raise the question -would the result have been different if everyone just voted the way they wanted versus what unreliable polling information told them? That ship has sailed and here we are. Let’s look forward and make the best of the outcome regardless of whether you are happy with the outcome or not. It remains that small businesses must remain agile and informed as policies begin to take shape in Ottawa. The incoming government has pledged continued support for small business growth, including access to financing, innovation funding, and workforce development. While this presents opportunities, it remains true that these opportunities can easily pass you by as a business owner if you don’t know how to access them or if you don’t have the capacity. Your Chamber is here to assist you and make sure that these measures are timely, inclusive, and accessible to micro-businesses and familyrun operations and we are here to help members with questions around access and availability. It remains true that rising geopolitical tensions with major trading partners pose ongoing risks to global supply chains and the cost of imported goods. At the same
time, interprovincial trade barriers continue to stifle efficiency and innovation within Canada itself. For small businesses that already operate on tight margins, this means potential price volatility and inconsistent product availability. We continue to work with other local Chambers to advocate for greater support for businesses facing traderelated disruptions. Despite these challenges,
this, we are excited to report that the return of our very own “Shop Local” initiative will be coming your way soon. In the months ahead, the Chamber will continue to focus on membership growth and support, regional collaboration, and innovation. We will also continue to press Mayor and Council for investments in infrastructure, attention to affordable housing initiatives and the inclusion of commercial spaces in all new developments. These areas are critical to maintaining Esquimalt’s competitiveness. Let’s keep the lines of communication open. Your input and experience help shape our response to evershifting economic conditions. We rely on input from our members so never hesitate to reach out to us. We are still in a period of growth, and we are flying high after two very successful events. Our anti-fraud event in partnership with VicPD and our recent Chamber mixer hosted at Driftwood was exceptionally well attended. It feels safe to say that the Esquimalt Chamber is BACK!! So, if you aren’t already a member, now may Esquimalt could be welljust be the time to consider positioned to thrive. Our joining us. Together, we can community has a somewhat ensure Esquimalt’s business diverse economy anchored community continues to grow by a robust marine sector, a growing clean-tech footprint, and thrive. And, as always, we and strong ties to the defence continue to impress upon the community the importance industry. Increased regional travel and a continued focus on of supporting your local business community as we “shop local” initiatives could provide small businesses with rely on you for our ongoing success and growth. Shop a much needed infusion of business. Our entrepreneurial Esquimalt!! Until next month, spirit is strong, and we have the advantage of a very Holly Courtright supportive community that supports our distinct business President, Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce environment. In support of