Economic forum

 

The Whitecourt Chamber of Commerce held its annual Economic Forum on Thursday, March 8 at École St. Joseph’s Hall. The six-hour event featured several different speakers from various economic backgrounds. Chamber President Paula Miller said business owners learn quite a bit at events such as this. “They learn about what’s happening in the town and the county, as well as new businesses that are starting up and what they will bring to the community.”

The entire event focuses on bringing community businesses together to learn about each other and, in turn, help each other grow and improve their businesses. “It’s a great networking opportunity. As a business you can talk to different business owners about the challenges you face. Networking is probably the biggest benefit of this event. You need to build your business and building a business comes through networking,” said Miller.

For those who are not already members of the Whitecourt Chamber of Commerce, joining them has its benefits, said Miller. “We feel we are a voice for the community and for your business. If you have issues you can bring them to the Chamber and we are constantly advocating on different things that are happening.  With these kinds of events it’s about building and growing your network.”

Deputy Mayor Paul Chauvet and Woodlands Mayor Jim Rennie both addressed the crowd about the current state of business in their respective areas as did Arnold Viersen, Member of Parliament for Peace River-Westlock Region. Newly-promoted president of Eagle River Casino & Travel Plaza, Eris Moncur, also spoke about the expansion project that is taking place at the casino. The executive dinner provided for forum guests was also graciously sponsored by Eagle River Casino.

Following a short break, several business owners took to the stage as part of a business panel to share stories and experiences. Guests included Geoff Stewart, owner of Rig Hand which is a craft distillery in the greater Edmonton area. He focuses greatly on agriculture and resource development within Alberta by locally sourcing, producing, and distributing his products which can be found at CJ’s Liquor.

Justine Vandenhouten was also a guest speaker and was joined by her fellow business partners at Compass Cannabis Clinic. The evening’s key note speaker was humanitarian and award-winning business leader, Ian Hill. He shared his personal journey through trials and tribulations in business and spoke about community projects that were innovative and life-changing.

Ian remarked on how much he enjoyed his time in Whitecourt. “I’ve been amazed by the authentic and sincere nature of both the formal and informal leaders of the community and their desire to work together to make the place something special. I was also incredibly impressed with the youth I met today. I got a chance to go to both high schools and spend real time with them, and the future is bright. It’s well in their hands,” said Ian.

Up next for the Chamber of Commerce is the Annual Trade Fair taking place on Mother’s Day weekend. The three-day event is always a high traffic area for businesses and is roughly half filled with vendors at this point. To nab one before they are gone, speak with Michelle at the Chamber office at 780-778-5363.