London Chamber of Commerce

Our team has had the pleasure of working with Jeremy on the London City of Music Expo and Business After 5 events. His contributions to the city's art and music scene have been significant, and he will be greatly missed!

💙🎨 Jeremy Jeresky, LAC's Curator, Public Programs and Learning, will be leaving us to pursue a career as an Arborist in Lindsay, Ontario.

Anyone who knows Jeremy, knows how passionate, dedicated, and hardworking he is. He always has a “can-do!” and “we’ll make it happen!” attitude, and has shown a tireless dedication to promoting the arts in London, and serving the arts community.

He has built many meaningful, supportive relationships with artists and community partners, some of which have become lifelong friends. As both a friend, and member of our LAC family, Jeremy has made our lives brighter, and the world a better place! 🎨💙

Read the full announcement here:
https://www.londonarts.ca/post/staff-resignation-announcement-thank-you-jeremy

👏Congratulations to our 2024 Finalists for the Small Business of the Year Award! 👏

🚴 London Bicycle Café
Founded in 2017 as a direct response to the planet’s climate crisis, London Bicycle Café employs 10, five full-time and five part-time. It integrates coffee, art, food, transportation, and space for a community of citizen-cyclists to grow and flourish. The café and the bike service centre locations are safely accessible by bike from nearly everywhere in the city, providing a welcoming first contact for new clients, and a “welcome home” for its existing customer base.

☕ Sidetrack: A Wortley Café
Sidetrack Café is an independent espresso café and tea shop in the Wortley Village neighbourhood in London’s Old South. They have a second location as the in-house café in Innovation Works, a social enterprise incubator on King St in London’s downtown. In addition to classic and novel coffee and tea creations, they serve a range of baked goods, light meals, and pantry items sourced from local suppliers in London and southern Ontario. Their success has been made possible by their crew of twelve across both locations, who are genuine co-creators of our business and inspire daily with their proactive efforts to create a welcoming space for every Londoner.

💡 Sparks Marketing Communications
Sparks Marketing Communications creates unforgettable brand experiences through a blend of digital, experiential, social, and traditional marketing strategies. With over 12 years of industry experience, Andrea Hayward leads the agency, ensuring seamless operations that align company goals with client satisfaction and financial success.

⚖️ Waseerlaw.ca
Founded by Zia Waseer, Waseer Law Office specializes in immigration and real estate law, offering personalized strategies for immigrants navigating the Canadian system. As an immigrant himself, Zia is deeply attuned to the challenges his clients face, and he’s dedicated to making their journey as smooth as possible.

Join us at the Business Achievement Awards Gala on September 25. Reserve your seat today: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/business-achievement-awards-1537

Join the London business community for an evening of networking, drinks, and delicious apps!

🗓 Thursday, September 26
⏱ 5:00 - 7:00pm
📍 Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes

Register now: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/september-business-after-five-1532

We are thrilled to celebrate a significant milestone for our Director of Events, Julia Cunningham. Today marks Julia's 19th anniversary with the Chamber, demonstrating exceptional skill and a positive attitude in planning and executing our signature events.

Please join us in extending our congratulations to Julia for this remarkable achievement. 🎉

TechAlliance, in partnership with Business + Higher Education Roundtable is calling small and medium businesses looking for innovative solutions to solve real business challenges at no cost and without time commitment!
Collaborate with ambitious students on your technology and other business-related projects from Fanshawe College and Huron University through Work-Integrated Learning opportunities. Applications close August 14, 2024 ⬇️
https://www.techalliance.ca/expression-of-interest-for-work-integrated-learning/

We can't wait to see you for our next Business After 5 at the beautiful Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre. This month, we’re celebrating the Summer Olympics. If you would like to show your spirit, you may wear your favourite team's colours or Olympic-inspired outfits.

Register here: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/august-business-after-five-1531

The London Chamber of Commerce has officially submitted a policy paper to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in regards to the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act that is included in Bill C-27. This paper points out some flaws with the current draft of the act and some possible solutions that will help make the act more effective and ensure that Canada’s tech sector can remain competitive. While the act does include a large investment into AI, the major concerns are the regulations that will be placed on the tech sector as well as how those regulations are put in place.

Read more: https://business.londonchamber.com/news/details/review-of-the-artificial-intelligence-and-data-act

Members - you don't want to miss our next Speed Networking event on September 17th!

One of our members who attended the last event had this to say, "After only 3 speed networking events, I have developed friendships, served new clients, and became a client of a fellow Chamber member. This event is a fabulous way to connect to the London business community!"

Register: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/september-speed-networking-1547

👏Congratulations to our 2024 Finalists for the Manufacturer Award 👏 This award recognizes local companies whose business achievements, investment, and growth have made an outstanding contribution to the London community.

Artcal Graphics & Printing founded in 1977, set out to become a leading screen print provider in London, Ontario. Over the years, it has transformed into a prominent full-service graphics house, offering digital printing, trade printing, vinyl graphics, vehicle graphics, and installations.

Forrat’s Chocolates, envisioned by Marc Forrat from a young age, aims to bring happiness through chocolate. While the idea might sound cheesy, it has led to the creation of a remarkable team. This dedicated team has enabled Forrat's Chocolates to grow from a small business to one with big dreams and achievements.

Join us at the Business Achievement Awards Gala on September 25. Reserve your seat today: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/business-achievement-awards-1537

Did you miss Indigenous Allyship in the Workplace on June 26? Watch the video now!

This event brought together the Indigenous community and business leaders to discuss economic and workplace reconciliation.

Proudly sponsored by LBMX.

Ask the Experts - Special Edition | Indigenous Allyship in the Workplace Moderator: Katie Wilhelm, Business Owner / Graphic Designer, Katie Wilhelm Graphic DesignShared Waters: London Listens - https://shop.museumlondon.ca/product...

We look forward to connecting with you on July 18 at the Rotary Reading Garden at London Public Library. Central Library serves as London's dynamic hub for culture, education, community engagement, and innovation.

Discover one of London's best-kept secrets - the Rotary Reading Garden! With lush scenery, green spaces, Muskoka chairs, and tables, it's perfect for everyone.

Register: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/july-business-after-five-1530

Join us for a night of recognition and celebration at the 2024 Business Achievement Awards, presented by TD Canada. This distinguished event will be held at RBC Place London on September 25, where we will recognize the outstanding achievements of the city's businesses. We look forward to celebrating with you!

🎟️Meet the finalists and secure your tickets: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/business-achievement-awards-1537

Our office will be closed every Friday in July and August to provide our team with a well-deserved summer break. We will be open Monday through Thursday to assist you. Thank you for your understanding and support!

We are thrilled to announce our partnership with HR Covered Inc, providing our members with complimentary access to over 1,000 HR documents and policies, along with other exclusive benefits.

Take full advantage of this opportunity: https://www.londonchamber.com/hr-covered/

The London Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by the significant process of London City Council in addressing health and homelessness through its Whole of Community System Response. Two major milestones have been reached: the endorsement of the Community Encampment Response Plan and the approval of the next steps for a new highly supportive housing project.

More: https://business.londonchamber.com/news/details/london-city-council-advances-health-and-homelessness-initiatives-with-new-supportive-housing-and-enc

Health & Homelessness Whole of Community System Response

Some exciting changes are happening at Budweiser Gardens!
Congratulations to Brian Ohl on a well-deserved retirement. Kelly Austin will be the new General Manager, and we wish her all the best in her new position!

After more than two decades of dedicated service, Brian Ohl, the General Manager of Budweiser Gardens, is embarking on his next chapter as he enters retirement.

Under Brian’s leadership, Budweiser Gardens became a landmark of civic pride for Londoners, consistently delivering unforgettable experiences to patrons while maintaining an outstanding reputation within the live entertainment industry. His visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have been pivotal in shaping the venue’s identity and ensuring its continued success over the years.

During his time as General Manager, Brian was instrumental in bringing high-profile events to Budweiser Gardens including the 2005 and 2014 Memorial Cups, World Figure Skating Championships in 2013, and the 2019 Juno Awards. He also booked legendary artists such as Prince, David Bowie, Bon Jovi, and The Who. Many Londoners will also remember Tommy Hunter’s Farewell concert and the Tragically Hip’s final show at the venue on Aug. 8, 2016.

Thank you, Brian, for all the unforgettable memories. Wishing you incredible adventures and a joyful retirement ahead! Remember, there will always be a place for you here at Budweiser Gardens.

We’re thrilled to welcome everyone tomorrow morning for a special edition of Ask the Experts: Indigenous Allyship in the Workplace. Thank you to our Indigenous History Month sponsor, LBMX.

If you can't join us in person, the session will be available on our YouTube channel later.

Pastries will be provided by Oneida Sweet Treats.

Moderator: Katie Wilhelm, Katie Wilhelm Graphic Design

Elders Dan and Mary Lou Smoke

Panelists:

- Dr. Ashley Sisco, Sisco & Associates Consulting Inc.
- Sharon Deebrah, Nokee Kwe
- Chantal Antone, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC)
- Alizabeth George Antone, Indigenous Community Liaison Advisor, City of London, Ontario - Municipal Government

https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/sold-out-ask-the-experts-special-edition-indigenous-allyship-in-the-workplace-1552

Nokee Kwe, the London Chamber of Commerce, and Libro Credit Union are pioneering the new First Employ Project. It aims to enhance inclusive economic growth by leveraging the Indigenous workforce’s strengths. The project, established in response to local businesses’ struggles recruiting and retaining Indigenous talent, aims to improve hiring norms and create culturally sensitive work environments. By way of a survey, assessing businesses’ reconciliation efforts and developing bespoke resources, the initiative hopes to inspire further workforce development partnerships and similar models elsewhere.

Complete the survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeF9fovCyTxJ9Df1n0eIv0WJqjjIZJAJ7nuR7ddwl1XPF1YxQ/viewform

Golf Committee Lunch! A big thank you to our incredible team of volunteers. The Past Chairs’ Golf Classic wouldn't have been possible without their support!

Special thanks to the following volunteers:

Ashley Viau, Greg French, James Whittaker,
Louise Motuzas, Sandi Firman, Werner Duever, Liliana Pardo, Ruth Harland, Stephanie Marentette, Tyler Brown, and Peter Geadah.

We missed those who weren’t able to come to lunch today!

2024 is off to a busy start! Explore the London Chamber's initiatives in policy and advocacy on critical business issues.

Check out the highlights: https://business.londonchamber.com/news/details/chamber-q1-and-q2-advocacy-review

Highlights from our 58th Annual Past Chairs' Golf Classic. Stay tuned for more photos!

Silvia, Julia, and Andrew are working hard to assemble the goody bags for our upcoming Past Chairs’ Golf Classic next week. ⛳️

We still have a foursome spot available! Register now at https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/past-chairs-golf-classic-1542

Our silent auction features fantastic items, including Blue Jays tickets, hockey tickets, and hotel stays!

Nokee Kwe, the London Chamber of Commerce, and Libro Credit Union are pioneering the new First Employ Project. It aims to enhance inclusive economic growth by leveraging the Indigenous workforce’s strengths. The project, established in response to local businesses’ struggles recruiting and retaining Indigenous talent, aims to improve hiring norms and create culturally sensitive work environments. By way of a survey, assessing businesses’ reconciliation efforts and developing bespoke resources, the initiative hopes to inspire further workforce development partnerships and similar models elsewhere.

Read the media release: https://business.londonchamber.com/news/details/first-employ-project-media-release

Link to First Employ Project survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeF9fovCyTxJ9Df1n0eIv0WJqjjIZJAJ7nuR7ddwl1XPF1YxQ/viewform

Join us at June's Business After 5 event at CCovent Garden Market Canada where we'll celebrate National Indigenous History Month. 🤝

Catering by: Candice Elijah, Candice's Catering
Music by: DJ Deon Carter

Thank you to our Business After 5 sponsor, TD, and National Indigenous History Month Sponsor, LBMX.

Register here: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/june-business-after-five-1529

It's June! That means it's National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions, and experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

We invite you to join us on June 26 for a special Ask the Experts - Indigenous Allyship in the Workplace. The speakers will offer clear, actionable steps towards meaningful economic reconciliation.

For example, how can businesses:

1. Enhance hiring norms and promote culturally safe work environments?
2. Align their operations with the principles of equity, respect, and partnership?
3. Enhance employment prospects for Indigenous individuals?
4. Promote dialogue between Indigenous community members and business leaders on economic reconciliation and inclusivity within the workplace?

Join us for a stimulating discussion and important discussion.

Moderator: Katie Wilhelm, RGD, Business Owner / Graphic Designer, Katie Wilhelm Graphic Design

Panelists:
Dan and Mary Lou Smoke
Ashley Sisco, Founder & CEO, Sisco & Associates Consulting Services
Additional panelists will be announced soon

More information and register here: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/ask-the-experts-special-edition-indigenous-allyship-in-the-workplace-1552

Nokee Kwe

🎥 Check out this video - UNESCO Cities of Music 2024 Annual Meeting After Story!

In February 2024, London, Canada, hosted the UNESCO Cities of Music Network, providing a platform for member cities to collaborate and learn from one another in pursuit of sustainable development through cultural and creative means.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PVK_4RA_w8

London Music Office Tourism London, Ontario

UNESCO Cities of Music 2024 Annual Meeting After Story London (Canada) played host to the UNESCO Cities of Music Network in February 2024. Member cities travelled from all corners of the globe to connect, learn a...

Only a few spots remain for our Past Chairs' Golf Classic on June 17th at the beautiful Sunningdale Golf & Country Club, proudly presented by Libro Credit Union. ⛳️

As a not-for-profit, the London Chamber of Commerce relies on funds from this tournament to support our advocacy work for all London stakeholders.

Whether you're a seasoned golf pro or just picking up the clubs for the first time, our tournament promises a day of competition, networking, and fun while forging new connections within the vibrant London business community.

Register: https://business.londonchamber.com/events/details/past-chairs-golf-classic-1542