Newsletter
January 6, 2021
Happy New Year - Welcome 2021
"There is nothing magical about the flip of the calendar, but it represents a clean break, a new hope and a blank canvas."
Jason Soroski
Recent News
Tourism Businesses Eligible for up to $45,000 in a Non-Repayable Grant - The B.C. government has enhanced the Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant program to make it easier for businesses to qualify and has increased support for those in the hard-hit tourism sector. The revised application process and eligibility criteria are now in place. Small- and medium-sized businesses are encouraged to apply.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce released a list of 30 things the government could do regarding tax changes that could help businesses struggling through the pandemic.  These recommendations come from consultations earlier this year as part of their Think Growth campaign. A comprehensive report will be published in 2021 that sets out ideas for long-term structural reform.

WorkSafeBC is actively monitoring COVID-19 to determine how they can best support our business community. Visit the WorkSafeBC website for the most up-to-date information.

The CBRN and Canadian Chamber of Commerce provides webinars and resources on COVID-19 programs and resources. Visit CBRN website to stay updated and informed.



Membership
Meet Your Chamber Board of Director - Lyndie Hill

What is your position/title and company, and what do you do there? Owner of Hoodoo Adventure Company Ltd. At Hoodoos, my role is to grow a passion for the outdoors through our offerings, our team and our connection to our community and land while regularly managing chaos and surviving adversity! 

How long have you been in the Okanagan? If you aren't originally from the valley, what led you to call the Okanagan home? I am a born and raised Pentictonite. I traveled, studied and worked overseas for 8 years and returned home in 2007 to start my business. As soon as I left, the Okanagan was calling me back as I quickly realized there was a unique opportunity to be a part of an industry from the ground up here, in a world class and essentially undiscovered, destination. 

What do you enjoy most about your role with the Penticton Chamber? I enjoy learning from others, bringing my experience to the table, networking and helping to give back to the business community however I can. I believe that the Chamber plays an integral role in shaping the future of the City by bringing the voice of businesses to the forefront as we navigate challenges and growth. I enjoy working with a group of like-minded people who want to have a positive impact in our community and create a better future together. 
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E-Office Penticton is offering a free workspace for a not for profit/charity organization. Email eofficeok@gmail.com for more info.
Events
Struggling to put this year's social media content calendar together? Learn quick tips from HEK Yeah Media to Kickstart Your Marketing & Communications for 2021!

Jan 12 "Building Resilience to Thrive" Learn Critical Leadership & Customer Service Skills
A few spaces are still available for the six week professional development program that starts in January. Better position yourself, your team, and your business for success as it recovers following COVID-19. Registration for this world class program is just $70 and Chamber members get a 50% discount. Invest in your team and your future now.

Email is the most effective marketing channel. That's right, according to research, it beats social media and SEO hands down - presented by Technica Systems.

When it comes to commercial insurance, many business owners are seeing their premiums rise and may be finding it increasingly difficult to get the appropriate insurance to meet their needs in certain regions. While there are no easy solutions to the problem, Canada’s insurers are pulling together to find creative solutions to support businesses across all sectors in accessing the insurance they need.

In this FREE live webinar, BDC experts will offer practical advice for optimizing your cash flow, effectively controlling costs and managing your financial needs.

Join Women’s Enterprise Centre for a conversation with Emily Given from Indigenous Services Canada who will share details about the opportunities available for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Presented by Okanagan College businesses who hire co-op students can benefit in a variety of ways including gaining fresh ideas from the students, filling workforce needs for temporary or short-term projects, developing and training students who turn into future employees.

Learn how to attract and keep great employees - FREE Interactive Webinars
Jan 26 Recruiting 101: Tools to Find the Right Person for Your Team
Feb 2 Employee Retention Toolkit for Business Owners
Feb 9 Managing HR: Tools to Unite Your Team

Tax season is right around the corner and with all of the changes in the last year, we want to keep you up to date on the changes that will affect your tax filings - presented by Omland Heal

Save the Date! Wednesday, March 24, 2021 Annual General Meeting of the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce. Swearing in of 2021 Board of Directors, Year in Review and update on the Chamber Strategic Plan.
Advocacy Updates
Chamber Membership - The BIG Picture

Collectively Chamber members across Canada influence government decisions and policies to help get products to new markets and to attract the talent and capital businesses need to thrive. These policies are adopted annually at the Canadian Chamber AGM.

Similar to the Canadian Chamber Policy Resolutions the BC Chamber policy resolutions serve as road map to inform provincial government of advocacy pan-provincial and regional-specific issues.