BC Chamber of Commerce Innovating for Impact at Annual AGM and Conference

The BC Chamber of Commerce has wrapped up its 72nd AGM and Conference in Kelowna, which ran May 28 to May 30, 2024, and was attended by 180 delegates from across the province.

Over the course of the conference, delegates heard from a wide variety of industry leaders and subject matter experts, who discussed topics including the interplay of productivity and innovation, decolonizing business, the power of artificial intelligence, and how to navigate BC’s labour shortage. Delegates also had the opportunity to engage with government and members of all three opposition parties. 

“The theme of this year’s conference was Innovating for Impact, and recognized the critical role that innovation plays in how we do business, attract and retain employees, choose business partners and engage customers and clients,” said Fiona Famulak, President and CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce. “Throughout the conference we explored all the forms innovation takes and dove deep into how it can drive diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and productivity and sustainability in our businesses.

As in prior years, delegates also participated in the provincial association’s annual policy sessions, where issues of critical importance to members are debated. This year, 43 policy resolutions, submitted by 18 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, were tabled, debated and voted upon; 42 policy resolutions were approved and will be included in the 2024-25 Policy & Positions Manual of the BC Chamber of Commerce.  

The approved policies cover a broad spectrum of provincial and federal issues critical to the success and well-being of B.C.’s business community, such as emergency economic recovery, post-secondary education, infrastructure, the natural resource sector and the wine industry. The 2024-25 Policy & Positions Manual will support the association’s advocacy priorities of building a thriving economy that is competitive, innovative and inclusive of all British Columbians.

During the Conference, the provincial association welcomed its new board chair, Julie Ziebart of Fort St. John. Ms. Ziebart is a Chartered Professional Accountant and partner of MNP LLP, where she provides comprehensive assurance and advisory services to small- and medium-sized businesses and is a member of the firm’s Indigenous Services Team.

“I am excited to serve as the Chair of the BC Chamber of Commerce for the coming year,” said Ms. Ziebart. “Our members are excited about the opportunities that innovation can create in their businesses, however, also recognize there are many challenges that need to be overcome to be able to prosper to their full potential. I know that the BC Chamber of Commerce and its provincial network of Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade will continue to advocate for the needs of B.C. businesses from all corners of the province.”

“At this year’s conference, we challenged delegates to think outside the box and embrace change that will help create an environment where businesses can grow, people can thrive and communities can flourish,” added Famulak. “We thank the many sponsors who helped make our conference a success and extend our sincere appreciation to all of the speakers, dignitaries, delegates and partners, who participated in this year’s event.”