Responsible Resource Development Supports Jobs in Atlantic Canada

Canadian Oil flowing east would create economic growth and prosperity across Canada

The Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources visited Saint John on December 11, 2012 and spoke to over 340 Saint John Board of Trade members, government, education and labour officials at a luncheon held at the Delta Brunswick Hotel. The Minister’s remarks highlighted the government’s plan for Responsible Resource Development. He was joined for his remarks by the Premier of New Brunswick, David Alward, and Saint John’s Member of Parliament, Rodney Weston. Further details at http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/media-room/news-release/2012/6746

Saint John Board of Trade's Women in Business Forum Launches 11th Annual "Bare Necessities" Campaign

Starting today, November 2nd, the members of the Saint John Board of Trade’s Women in Business Forum will be collecting toiletry items for their eleventh annual “Bare Necessities” campaign. The goal of the campaign, first launched in 2002, is to provide women’s shelters, food banks and other organizations packages containing the ‘little but necessary’ personal care items, just in time for the holiday season.

“Help us provide some of the bare necessities like hair brushes, combs, soaps, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, toothbrushes and toothpaste” said Imelda Gilman, President of the Saint John Board of Trade. “Items will be distributed to local not-for-profit organizations in time for the holiday season.”

The campaign will run from November 2 to November 30, 2012.

Drop off boxes are located at all CIBC and RBC Royal Bank branches in Saint John and at the Saint John Board of Trade at 40 King Street.

“We are really excited to be celebrating the 11th Bare Necessities Campaign this year,” Ms. Gilman commented. “The Campaign continues to grow year after year. Last year we were able to distribute over 40 boxes to more than 22 organizations in our community. We are continually impressed by how generous our members and the community are to support this campaign on an annual basis.

For a list of items needed, visit the Saint John Board of Trade website: www.sjboardoftrade.com.

Click here to view poster

Saint John Board of Trade to host event with Premier David Alward and Maine Governor Paul LePage

As part of its commitment to fostering relationships between businesses and the community, the Saint John Board of Trade is hosting its first ever, cross-border business event. The inaugural N2 International Exchange Forum, being held Thursday, October 25 at Lily Lake Pavilion, will mark the first time a New Brunswick Premier and Maine Governor have sat down for a public discussion on business sector opportunities.

“New Brunswick has always shared a unique connection with the New England states,” says Saint John Board of Trade President Imelda Gilman. “Saint John was originally founded on its cross-border relationships. We believe it is time to have a 21st Century discussion about the business and energy opportunities for the Province of New Brunswick and the State of Maine as a region.”

The Saint John Board of Trade and MT&L Public Relations partnered to create N2 International Exchange Forum to leverage and celebrate New Brunswick’s strategic geographical proximity to the New England States.

“We are thrilled that our Premier and the Governor of Maine will be in Saint John to kick-off the forum as the keynote speakers at the luncheon,” adds Gilman. “The interest from our business and sector leaders already has been really encouraging. Our local Saint John community and our counterparts across the border are dialed in to this event, and to renewing this working relationship that we share.”

Participants are invited to attend the luncheon with the Premier and Governor at Lily Lake with the option to also participate in one of two forums in the afternoon - Energy: A Regional Perspective for Maine and the Maritimes or Expanding Your Markets: Innovation and Expansion.

The event concludes with a networking mixer for the 25th Anniversary of Saint John and Bangor’s Sister City relationship with Saint John Mayor Mel Norton and Bangor Mayor Cary Weston and Access Atlantica Co-Chairs Nancy Thorne and Miles Theeman.

To find out more event details and register online visit www.n2exchange.com, or contact the Saint John Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111 or by emailing info@sjboardoftrade.com. To get involved in the conversation before the Forum, join the LinkedIn group New Brunswick New England International Exchange Forum.


Thursday, October 25, 2012 – 12 pm Lily Lake Pavillon
Luncheon kick-off: Cross-BorderConversation
Keynote Speakers:
Premier David Alward, Province of New Brunswick
Governor Paul LePage, State of Maine

Afternoon Forum Session Details:
Energy: A Regional Perspective for Maine and the Maritimes - 2 pm Lily Lake Pavillon:
Panellists:
Gaëtan Thomas, President & CEO, NB Power; Mike Whalen, General Manager, Marketing, Business Development & Regulatory Affairs, Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline; Kenneth Fletcher, Director, Governor's Energy Office; Gerry Chasse, P.Eng., President & COO, Bangor Hydro Electric Company and Maine Public Service Company; and , Christopher Huskilson, President & CEO, Emera Inc.
Moderator: John Herron, President, Atlantica Centre for Energy

Expanding Your Markets: Innovation and Expansion - 2 pm Union Club
Panellists:
John Voltz, Executive Director, Blackstone Accelerates Growth; Karina LeBlanc, Executive Director, Pond-Deshpande Centre at the University of New Brunswick; Matthew Raynes, Shareholder, Eaton Peabody and Christopher Stewart, Partner, Stewart McKelvey, Immigration: Cross-Border Hiring and Working.
Moderator: John Holden, Development Consultant, Eaton Peabody

About the Saint John Board of Trade
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.

About MT&L Public Relations
MT&L Public Relations is a communications firm in Atlantic Canada with offices in Saint John, Halifax and St. John’s. MT&L is a partner with NATIONAL Public Relations, with offices across Canada, US and Europe. To find out more about MT&L Public Relations visit www.mtlpr.ca.

Outstanding Business Achievement Awards Recipients Announced

The Saint John Board of Trade has announced the recipients of its 2012 Outstanding Business Achievement Awards. At its 28th awards dinner, Hemmings House Pictures was honoured with the award for Emerging Enterprise, and Master Promotions accepted the Entrepreneurial Achievement Award. In the Business Excellence category, the award went to Innovatia Inc.

In the Emerging Enterprise category, Hemmings House Pictures took top honours. Hemmings House Pictures was established after a previous partnership Greg Hemmings had with two others was dissolved in 2007. That year Greg joined Andrew Tidby and Dreamstreet Pictures to produce a TV show called Planet Luxury for which he invested heavily in production and post-production gear. Along with his many years experience in the film industry, he now had equipment plus an experienced crew, enabling him to start a new corporate video and commercial production company. Hemmings House has since produced numerous world-class television series and documentaries, and works closely with many of the regions top advertising agencies to serve the Atlantic Canadian corporate video and commercial markets.

Each of the ten full time staff and regular contractors has a support backup, so there is always at least one person who knows the job of the other, making for maximum redundancy and efficiency. The team is motivated by the ability to work in an environment that is more of a lifestyle than a career. As a service-based company that is successful because of the team’s talent and likability, personal relationship development with current and prospective clients is vital.

Greg considers himself an ‘adventure’ entrepreneur whose passion is the creative arts. He takes risks for high levels of adventure, and writes a weekly travel and adventure column in the Telegraph Journal. An active member of the Saint John community, the company supports many charitable and civic initiatives with free or deeply discounted services.

Hemmings House has become known in the marketplace for highly creative videos and photography. Clients hire them to tell their brand stories to customers around the globe. In the next five years the company plans to expand its export of original content, as well as service customers on both sides of the border.

Wendell Howes began Master Promotions in 1973 with one show in Saint John organized from a makeshift office in his basement. Expansion began in the Maritimes and, as the successes grew, creating shows across the country seemed to be the logical next step. With many International trade show companies scaling back or leaving Canada, Master Promotions has shown continuous annual growth through new show creation as well as the purchase of a number of highly respected shows in the Maritimes, Ontario and BC. Master Promotions now owns about 40 Trade and Consumer shows across Canada, managed by its 28 employees from offices on both coasts.

The company’s unique approach to event development, and provision of a seamless exhibiting experience for clients, stands out among the competition and has earned Master Promotions a reputation for producing high quality, focused and very successful events.

The company is continually on the leading edge of new developments in the trade show industry. Its unique Trade Show and Conference Registration software, developed by the in-house IT department, is used for registration at all of their trade shows and is contracted out to other industry events as well. Their new electronic sales brochures cuts down on paper waste, and engaging customers and visitors via social networking is an excellent tool to gauge satisfaction with an event and to generate excitement and sales activities.

Wendell's hands-on approach and unique ability to foresee opportunities has contributed to the company’s ability to expand nationally from its head office in Saint John. Master Promotions currently owns and manages Canada's largest trade shows in the forestry, heavy construction equipment, commercial fishing, trucking and logistics and agriculture. As founder and president, Wendell has built the company from a small organization to one of Canada's most recognized names in the trade show industry.

Innovatia is a Knowledge Management firm with a focus on the ICT and Energy industries. Founded in 2000, Innovatia’s 400 plus professionals deliver top quality solutions to their clients across North America and globally. Innovatia delivers knowledge management services in three areas: Learning Solutions, Documentation, and Technical Support. These solutions span the entire solution set from custom design and development through to delivery and support. Procedure Accelerator, a web-enabled software platform designed for the Oil and Gas and Chemical Processing industries, is also currently being marketed throughout North and South America.

Since Roxanne Fairweather and Dave Grebenc acquired the business in 2009, the Innovatia team has significantly grown the business. Today, they are successfully delivering large-scale projects to
some of the world’s leading global Technology and Oil and Gas organizations. The impact of this growth has been significant within Saint John and New Brunswick, both in the creation of skilled jobs and the subsequent revenue generation for local suppliers. Both the Saint John based employees and those throughout New Brunswick have a broad multi-level skill base that is rich in industry experience and knowledge management expertise.

In addition to their day-to-day business, the Innovatia team gives back to the community. Focusing their efforts on children and literacy, Innovatia continues to be a PALS partner promoting literacy at Hazen-White St. Francis School. Recently, this has included the transformation of the school library, a yearly book drive to stock the shelves, and the PenPALS program, pairing students with employees at Innovatia.

Innovatia’s commitment to client satisfaction and quality, their multi-level, extensive skill base and their broad and deep industry experience is why their clients continue to turn to them to transform their products and end-user experience.

This year’s recipient of the “Young Entrepreneur” award is Dave Wolpin, owner of Kredl’s, Wolpin Enterprises and Dave’s Produce Packs. This award recognizes young business leaders (30 years and under) just beginning to make their mark.

The Board of Trade presented this evening for the tenth year “The Big Heart” Award. The recipient of this award is Romero House Soup Kitchen.

Also this evening, Board of Trade Chair, Larry Hachey presented Credit Counselling Services of Atlantic Canada with the Chair’s Award. This marks the nineteenth year in which a deserving individual or organization has been selected by the Board’s Chairperson for their achievements within, and contributions to, the community.

Cruise Season Peaking at Port Saint John Next Week

Cruise Season Peaking at Port Saint John Next Week


Saint John (NB) – Cruise activity will steadily increase over next few weeks as Southern New Brunswick enters the peak period for Fall colours.

In particular next week will bring 8 ship calls between Monday and Thursday with triple cruise ship days on Monday, September 24 and Tuesday, September 25. This includes the added call of the 3100 passenger capacity Emerald Princess on Monday, September 24 and puts the total cruise guests expected this year on 74 ships at just over 190,000.

“We are pleased to gain an added visit of Emerald Princess on Monday,” noted Jim Quinn, President and CEO of Port Saint John. “This addition to the schedule gave us a second triple cruise ship day next week and brings to the total cruise guests expected over a four day period to 20,000 guests and 7,800 crew experiencing our city and region”.

He further noted the following week is nearly as busy with more than 17,000 cruise guests and nearly 7,000 crew members.

“Our tour operators, retailers and restaurateurs will notice a significant increase in the level of traffic in their businesses over the next few weeks and we at the Port Authority are gearing up to welcome these ships and their guests through our facilities as they experience all the Bay of Fundy region offers,” concluded Quinn.

The season will continue through to October 29 and includes three more inaugural calls of new vessels to the Port: Emerald Princess (September 24); Quest for Adventure (October 4); and Artania (October 8).

The cruise ship schedule for the remainder of 2012 is available at www.cruisesaintjohn.com.

Canada’s Skills Crisis: What We Heard

Barrier I: Resolving Canada's Skills Crisis

Last year, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce lead a nation-wide consultation of the network to find out what was the most pressing issue affecting Canada’s competitiveness. You told us that, as Canada confronts real and growing competition throughout the world, a key factor in our ability to win is the human resources supporting our business enterprises.

Between March and June 2012, we held our largest-ever consultation with our membership on a single issue. We organized 13 roundtables and participated in another five with corporate members and local chambers across the country. We mobilized our network to lead the conversation, asking for their best practices, and polling their opinions via eight online surveys.

Thank you to all the participants and chambers who shared their insights and advice with us in a real-time experience. Very few organizations could match the scope of the Canadian Chamber; our exercise may be unique in that respect.

Our findings from this initial phase are summarized in the report that I encourage you to review.

I thank you for your contribution and continued support. I look forward to working with all of you and our various stakeholders in the year ahead as we engage with governments and show business leadership in addressing this critical issue for Canada’s future.

Startup Canada Partners with StartupPlays to Ease Entrepreneurs' Struggles

Startup Canada and StartupPlays are launching a new initiative today that will share targeted and tactical startup strategies with Canadian entrepreneurs to help remove some of the struggle from starting a business.


StartupPlays is a combination resource centre and startup network that converts entrepreneur experience and knowledge into processes it shares as blueprints or “plays” in a customizable personal playbook. This week, Startup Canada is launching a beta integration of StartupPlays within its website to provide entrepreneurs with access to advice, tips, and tools used by successful startups around the world. These step-by-step business guides can be found at http://guides.startupcan.ca.

“Creating mentorship opportunities and improving the sharing of industry knowledge have been identified as key challenges by entrepreneurs across Canada, so we are excited to partner with StartupPlays to deliver some targeted solutions in these areas,” said Victoria Lennox, Co-Founder of Startup Canada. “Entrepreneurs and enterprise support organizations will be able to come to our website and find the tools and advice they need to start up, scale up, and succeed.”

StartupPlays provides a diverse selection of business guides, ranging in topic from marketing and operations, to finance, sales, and product development. In addition, its expert network features many Canadian entrepreneurs who are both serial veterans and overnight successes, including entrepreneurs like Dan Martell, CEO/Founder of Clarity; Cameron Herold, Former COO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK, and Sam Zaid, Founder of Getaround, who won TechCrunch Disrupt 2011.

“This is a grassroots, national partnership,” said Scott Annan, Founder and CEO of StartupPlays. “Startup Canada and StartupPlays.com share the same vision in helping Canadian entrepreneurs build world-class companies. This partnership will enable us to reach both seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast and help them grow their business using proven best practices by fellow Canadian entrepreneurs.”

Since March 2012, Startup Canada has been on a National Tour hosting Town Halls and other Fringe Events to develop community-led action plans that address key challenges facing entrepreneurs. As the tour enters its final week, its next steps will be to use the feedback gathered to create a national blueprint for implementing key recommendations from the Tour. This will be presented to the federal government in November.

Startup Canada sponsors include Microsoft, Gowlings, Ernst & Young, Best Western Hotels, the Canadian Innovation Commercialization Program, Export Development Canada, the Business Development Bank of Canada, The VideoBooth Company, Kick Ass Media, PubliAir, Blab! Media, the Ottawa Technology Transfer Network, the Association of University Research Parks Canada, the Canadian Association of Business Incubation, the Evidence Network, Francis Moran & Associates, FreshBooks, Global Advantage Consulting Group, MSBi Valorisation, Podio, Backbone Magazine, HootSuite, ITWorld Canada, NextMTL, Paper.li, Sprouter, and Techvibes.

Commentary-Larry Hachey, Chairman, Saint John Board of Trade

Published in the Telegraph Journal September 14th - Page A11
While many economists have declared the 2008-2010 recession over, there has been little resulting thrust of economic activity that usually and historically accompanies a prolonged malaise. Accordingly, a rebound has been stalled for an unusually long period of time. There is no doubt that Saint John, like the rest of Canada, finds itself mired in what has been dubbed the "Great Stall". The reasons for the stall are varied, but have mostly to do with lack of confidence in consumers and business. The Saint John Board of Trade is seeking to rebuild confidence and pride as a community, as we have lots to be proud of.

On August 29, 2012 the Saint John Board of Trade decided to showcase our city and specifically the investments being made in the private sector to our municipal and provincial government officials who joined business leaders for a tour of the city. The aptly dubbed “Private Sector Tour” was an opportunity for elected officials and government staff to gain a better understanding of the positive stories happening in the Port City. The tour had over 50 participants who were treated to a walking, train and bus tour of Saint John’s four business clusters.

Beginning early in the morning on the UNB Saint John campus the tour started with a look at the Health and Life Sciences Cluster. The group was treated to a walking tour of the Tucker Park Campus which features a now seamless collaboration between UNBSJ, NBCC, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John Regional Hospital, and Horizon Health Network. The tour touched upon the well over $50 million investments happening at Tucker Park and the future of health research for Saint John and our Province.

The tour then boarded a N.B. Southern Railway train where passengers learned about advances in the Energy, ICT, Port and Waterfront sectors. The train departed from Harbour Station and made its way west, with fantastic views, as leaders heard about advances in technology from J.D. Irving, Limited; and Moosehead Breweries construction on a 20 million dollar expansion. The train travelled to the NB Southern Rail terminal on the Gifford Road and learned of their recent expansion and addition of 150 employees and expectations to hire another 100 new employees year over year. After changing directions the tour focused on the ICT sector with presentations from Bell Aliant and Ambir. Saint John was named one of the Top 7 Intelligent Comunities in the world in 2012 by the Intelligent Communities Forum. Participants were pleasantly surprised to hear that the ICT sector in Saint John now employs 3000 people with over 100 companies.

The train then stopped at Bayshore on the west side where participants enjoyed spectacular views of the bay and learned about the ongoing investments at Canaport LNG. As the tour looked out over the bay towards Canaport LNG participants heard of their 43 million dollar investment aimed at improving efficiency and further reducing emissions.

After a quick lunch the tour left the rails and participants hopped aboard an articulated bus for updates from the Port of Saint John and Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan, N.B. Division as the bus circled the lower cove loop. Participants could see the final construction of the Diamond Jubilee terminal, the new Harbourfront condos on our beautiful waterfront, learn of the opportunities that lie ahead with the attraction of the 2nd largest container line in the world, MSC, to the port of Saint John, and hear of Potash’s $1.6 Billion investment in their mine and the impact on our port. The tour was completed along Bayside Drive where leaders of Emera discussed a 30 million dollar infrastructure expansion at Bayside Power. Atlantic Wallboard outlined their workforce expansion where the plant is now running 24 hours a day 7 days a week due to a recovery in the United States housing market.

As we take stock in our inventory, our strengths become evident. What is also evident is our need to change how we talk and think about our city. Yes, we have our challenges, but we do not lack the talent or the resources to overcome them and take advantage of our natural strengths. Now, more than ever, we need a bold vision to encourage economic development so that we can offer our youth opportunities to work and play here, to offer potential immigrants a reason to come and stay here and to increase our tax base so that we can afford the types of infrastructure we need to pay for. In the absence of a vision, none of those things will happen.

The Saint John Board of Trade wants to offer a vision of making Saint John recognized as the best place to run, grow and start a business in Canada. As a city, we have a way to go in achieving that vision, but not as far as you might think. It starts with a focus on our strengths, on deciding what we are good at and telling the world. Indeed, Saint John has a story to tell and we can't be shy about it anymore. Our future is calling.

Saint John Board of Trade announces recipient of 2012 “Chair’s Award”

Larry Hachey, Chairman of the Saint John Board of Trade is pleased to announce his choice for the 2012 “Chair’s Award” to be presented at the 28th annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards dinner on Wednesday, October 3rd at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.


The Chair’s Award was established in 1993 to recognize a company, or individual, who has demonstrated a particular excellence or achievement in a certain aspect of their business, having made either an immediate impact on or a substantial long-term contribution to the economic progress of our community.

“I am excited to be presenting the award this year to Credit Counselling Services of Atlantic Canada Inc. (CCSAC)” said Mr. Hachey. “CCSAC is a non-profit organization that has been changing lives, giving back to the community and along the way, has become a great employer and standard bearer for serviced based companies. My choice was an easy one.”

Credit Counselling Services of Atlantic Canada is a non-profit community service dedicated to supporting, educating and empowering consumers by providing guidance in solving debt problems through financial counselling, education and debt repayment programs.

Established in 1994, CCSAC began as a one-office, one-employee organization. John Eisner was hired as the first credit counsellor and his belief in the mission has never wavered. John and co-founder Bill Gale believed in the need for this service in Saint John and enlisted Roly McIntyre and Kit Payn, to name a few, to make up the first board of directors. To ensure sustainability during lean times, the early years saw the agency seek donations of postage and furniture and whatever else it took to make it to the next month.

Eventually hard work, word of mouth and consumer demand ensured the continued growth and success of the business. Under the direction of President John Eisner, the agency has grown to ten offices throughout Atlantic Canada and a staff of twenty-five. In 2011, CCSAC counselled over 5,000 clients and helped them eliminate over $10-million in debt. To date, CCSAC has worked with in excess of 100,000 consumers experiencing debt issues. CCSAC plays a very active role in financial literacy and last year alone reached over 4,000 participants during 180 presentations.

The 28th annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards dinner, Saint John’s Premiere annual business event, will be held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, October 3rd at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre. Tickets are available by contacting the Board of Trade office at 40 King Street, Saint John or by calling (506) 634-8111.

Past recipients of the Chair’s Award include: Mr. Philip Oland in 1993; Saint John Pro Sports Inc. in 1994; Mr. Malcolm Somerville in 1995; the Imperial Theatre Inc. in 1996; Mr. Patrick Darrah in 1997; Cruise Saint John’s “Meet & Greet” Committee and the Irving Companies in 1999; New Brunswick Community College-Saint John and the University of New Brunswick Saint John in 2000; Mr. Lino Celeste in 2001; The Greater Saint John Roundtable on Primary Healthcare in 2002; Mr. Stephen MacMackin in 2003; Dr. Mary Eileen Travis in 2004; The five regional mayors were honoured as group in 2005; The Atlantica Centre for Energy in 2006; the Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative (BCAPI) in 2007; Bob Manning in 2008; Gerry Pond in 2009; Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick in 2010; and Enterprise Saint John in 2011.

Saint John Board of Trade to host General Rick Hillier

The Saint John Board of Trade is pleased to present a luncheon with General Rick Hillier. The event will be held on Tuesday, September 18, 2012 at noon at the Saint John Trade & Convention Centre.

General Hillier was Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff – the highest ranking position in the Canadian Forces. He is presently Senior Adviser with TD Bank Group. General Hillier will speak on Leadership.

Event and ticket information can be found at www.sjboardoftrade.com and can be purchased online or by calling the Saint John Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111 or emailing info@sjboardoftrade.com

Thank you to our Sponsor, TD Bank Group.

Saint John Board of Trade to host Jean-Rene Halde, President & CEO, Business Development Bank of Canada

The Saint John Board of Trade is pleased to present its Distinguished Speaker Luncheon Series with Jean-Rene Halde, President & CEO of the Business Development Bank of Canada. The event will be held on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at noon at the Delta Brunswick Hotel.

Mr. Halde will speak on innovation and investings

Event and ticket information can be found at www.sjboardoftrade.com and can be purchased online or by calling the Saint John Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111 or emailing info@sjboardoftrade.com

Thank you to our Distinguished Speaker Series Sponsors Emera New Brunswick, Scotiabank and Stewart McKelvey.

Saint John Board of Trade announces the Finalists for the 28th Annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards

SAINT JOHN, NB – The Saint John Board of Trade proudly announces the finalists for Greater Saint John’s Outstanding Business Achievement Awards. The awards dinner, Saint John’s Premiere annual business event, and presentations will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3rd, 2012 at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.

From a field of over 90 nominees, the five-member judging panel has selected Cochran’s Country Market and Innovatia as the finalists for the Business Excellence award. The finalists for the Entrepreneurial Achievement award honour are Element5 Spa and Master Promotions. The finalists for the Emerging Enterprise award are Hemmings House Pictures and Piece-O-Cake.

The recipient of this year’s Young Entrepreneur Award is Dave Wolpin, the owner of Kredls, Wolpin Enterprises and Dave’s Produce Packs.

Now in its 28th year, the Outstanding Business Achievement Awards event recognizes businesses and business people in the community that have aided business development, entrepreneurship and increased economic progress in Greater Saint John.

The Entrepreneurial Achievement award is designed to recognize a company or individual that has started a business, considerably improved a company, or modified an existing enterprise.

The Business Excellence award focuses on established companies that have achieved highly in management quality, sales growth, community relations, marketing and leadership.

The Emerging Enterprise award recognizes new businesses just beginning to make their mark. To be eligible for this award, companies must have been in business less than five years.

The Young Entrepreneur Award recognizes young business leaders (30 years and under) just beginning to make their mark.

Previous winners of the awards, presented annually since 1985, have included: Lingley Printing Co. Ltd; Tabufile Atlantic Ltd; Pete’s Frootique; Mother Nature’s Pita Bakery & Restaurant; Bourque Manufacturing Ltd; Eastern Technical Services Ltd; Fundy Computer Services Ltd; Moosehead Breweries Ltd; Hunter Marketing & Communications; Beattie Construction Services Ltd; Thirtysomething Enterprises Inc (The Body Shop); Gardner Electric Ltd; NBTel; Kelly Tire Services Ltd; Mitchell, McConnell, Daniels Insurance Brokers Ltd; PCL & Eastern Packaging Limited; Aquila Tours/Destination Marketing; Baxter Foods Limited; Brenan Group Ltd; DMR Consulting Group Inc; Maritime Aqua Service; New North Media; Delta Brunswick Hotel; Senior Watch Inc; Appleby’s Image Center; Discount Car & Truck Rentals; The Document Company Xerox; Impact Forensic Analysis Inc; CanSupply.com; Java Moose; Irving Oil, Refining Division; Funeral Directors’ Choice; Meridian Construction Inc; Media Planet; Eastern Collections Services Ltd; Cendant Canada Inc; Here Publishing Inc; CAA Maritimes; National Leasing, Rent-a-Chef Inc; H.E.L.P. Educational Services Ltd; Simply for Life; Cooke Aquaculture; Fundy Engineering & Consulting Ltd; ADI Limited; Brovada Technologies; Evolving Solutions; Mariner Partners; CentreBeam Inc; Canadian Cable Systems Alliance Inc; Maritime Rescue and Medical Inc; East Point Inc.; Lorneville Mechanical Contractors; Jacques Whitford Limited; Vision Coaching; The DPL Group; Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission; Opera Bistro; Dillon Consulting; Kelson & Kelson; ClinicServer; Go-Go Gymnastics Inc; Punch Productions; and Bayview Trucks & Equipment Ltd.

Previous recipients of the Young Entrepreneur Award were Ji Li, Greg Hemmings, Tao Tao Liu, Marc Robichaud, Leah Anderson, Jenny Scott, James Galbraith, Kiera Fraser, and Keith Brideau.

This year’s winners will be announced at the awards dinner on October 3rd Tickets for the awards dinner may be obtained from the Saint John Board of Trade.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Network Skills Initiative: Results from Skills Surveys #1 & #2

Over the course of 16 weeks, from March to June 2012, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce released eight surveys to its chamber network, as part of its Top 10 initiative. Each survey focused on a particular theme under the umbrella of the skills challenges that Canada faces. The surveys are now closed but we wanted to start sharing the results with you.

To view the results of the first survey on post secondary education click here: http://www.chamber.ca/images/uploads/Network/NewsLetter/Survey_1_Results_Post_Secondary_Education.pdf

Survey #2’s theme was on life-long learning and can be found at: http://www.chamber.ca/images/uploads/Network/NewsLetter/Survey_2_results_-_Life-long_learning.pdf

Event Invitation- Saint John Airport to Announce New Aviation Service to Major Centres in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador

Officials at the Saint John Airport have received confirmation of new direct air service to Quebec City, Bonaventure, and beyond.
Representatives from the airline will be present for the launch set for:

Tuesday, July 31 at 11:00 a.m. at the Saint John Airport

Details include new, direct service for passengers and cargo to Quebec City and Bonaventure, Quebec, with connections to major centres throughout Quebec and Wabush, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Saint John Airport will be the only New Brunswick airport with direct flights to Quebec City and Bonaventure, with same plane connection to Wabush, NL.

Canada Post E-commerce Innovation Awards - The search to find Canada's most innovative E-merchants is on!

Announcing the Canada Post E-commerce Innovation Awards
On Thursday, July 12, 2012, Canada Post publicly announced the Canada Post E-commerce Innovation Awards, a competition designed to recognize and reward successful innovation by online retailers in Canada, both large and small, and further boost the growing e-commerce sector.
E-commerce retailers will compete in five categories for prize packages that include free parcel shipping and Direct Marketing, substantial enough to boost their businesses during the all-important fall and holiday season. Submissions will be judged by a blue-ribbon expert panel, and winners will be announced in Toronto on October 16, 2012.
More information on the awards is available at http://www.postescanada.ca/cpo/mc/business/campaigns/ecommerceawards/default.jsf or Englishcanadapost.ca/ecommerceawards.

Special Promotion: Nova Scotia Feed-in Tariff Forum 2012

The Atlantic Provinces Chambers of Commerce is a supporter of the upcoming Nova Scotia Feed-in Tariff Forum 2012, which takes place September 24-25 in Halifax. The forum will provide essential details on the opportunities for renewables under Nova Scotia’s Renewable Electricity Plan including the Community Feed-in Tariff (COMFIT) and RFP Programs and the next steps for renewables across Atlantic Canada.  
In receiving this email, you are eligible for a special 20% discount off attendance. Simply enter the code “atlantic20” when registering online at www.nsfit2012.com.
Don’t miss this opportunity to network with over 300 renewable energy developers, suppliers, policy and infrastructure experts and gain critical insight on moving renewable energy projects forward in the region including:

•             Updates  from the Nova Scotia Department of Energy on the COMFIT and RFP and next steps for renewables
•             Hear from world-class developers and OEMS on the business climate for renewables in Atlantic Canada
•             Learn about the COMFIT’s progress from municipalities, communities and First Nations
•             Insight on grid connection  plans and capacity for renewables in the Maritimes
•             Benefit from exclusive insight on renewable energy policy developments in New Brunswick, PEI and Newfoundland and Labrador

For more information, please visit: www.nsfit2012.com or contact Adrienne Baker at adrienne.baker@canadianclean.com or 819 459 1462.

Webinar: Aboriginal workforce development, June 27 - Canadian Chamber of Commerce

As today is National Aboriginal Day, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you that we will be holding our fourth skills-related webinar on Aboriginal workforce development on June 27 at 1 p.m. EDT (please check your local time zone). Members are invited to attend this session which will focus on engaging Aboriginal peoples in the workplace.

 

In this webinar, you will learn what you need to know about:

• Finding and hiring Aboriginal workers
• The best practices for Aboriginal inclusion in the workplace
• Confronting the critical issue of inadequate education among Aboriginal workers

Speakers include:
Kelly Lendsay, President and CEO, Aboriginal Human Resource Council; Kara Flynn, Syncrude’s Vice President for Government and Public Affairs; Jennifer Rattray, University of Winnipeg’s first Associate Vice-President of Indigenous, Government, and Community Affairs

This webinar is free, if you haven’t registered, you need to do so, by clicking here

Canadian Chamber Ongoing Consultations

As part of the chamber network’s ongoing consultation on the issues related to skills/competitiveness, we are pleased to be able to provide you with a survey that is appropriate for sharing with your members to gather their input on this important issue under the skills umbrella. This is the eighth and final survey we have sought your input on. This short survey (5 questions) focuses on issues relative to domestic skills development and focuses on Aboriginal peoples. Here’s the link to the survey:

A short one-page backgrounder on this topic is available if you wish to include it with your survey communications to your members.


Don’t forget, if you haven’t filled out our previous surveys they are still live and waiting for you and your members to comment. The list of previous surveys follows:


Survey 1 on post-secondary education:
Survey 2 on life-long learning:
Survey 3 on older workers and people with disabilities:
Survey 4 on integration services of immigrants:
Survey 5 on immigration potential through temporary foreign workers; permanent workers and international students:
Survey 6 on early childhood education programs:
A reminder: the Canadian Chamber will be holding its fourth skills-related webinar on Aboriginal workforce development June 27 at 1 PM ET (please check your local time zone). Please invite your members to attend this session which will focus on engaging Aboriginals in the workplace.
Survey 7 on skilled trades and labour mobility



A reminder: the Canadian Chamber will be holding its fourth skills-related webinar on Aboriginal workforce development June 27 at 1 PM ET (please check your local time zone). Please invite your members to attend this session which will focus on engaging Aboriginal peoples in the workplace.


In this webinar, you will learn what you need to know about:

- How to find and hire Aboriginal workers

- What are the best practices that are boosting opportunities for Aboriginal employees in the workplace

- How can business confront the critical issue of inadequate education among Aboriginal workers?

Speakers will include Kelly Lendsay, President and CEO, Aboriginal Human Resource Council; Kara Flynn, Syncrude’s Vice President for Government and Public Affairs; and Jennifer Rattray, University of Winnipeg’s first Associate Vice-President of Indigenous, Government, and Community Affairs.

Please note that while this webinar is free, if you haven’t registered, you need to do so, by clicking here.

Luncheon with David Campbell - Senior Consultant, Jupia Consultants Inc

On June 6, 2012 the Saint John Board of Trade welcomed David Campbell - Senior Consultant, Jupia Consultants Inc as part of our ongoing Distinguished Speakers Series. Mr. Campbell spoke on the difficulties that New Brunswick's urban centres face and challenged Saint John business leaders to “ Think Big! ” The presentation placed an emphasis on growing Saint John and our other urban centres in order to facilitate New Brunswick growth. More specifically, Mr. Campbell asserts that Saint John must lead New Brunswick’s urban growth over the next few decades. To read the full “ Think Big! ” presentation click here.

Skills Survey #6: Early Childhood Education Programs

As part of the chamber network’s ongoing consultation on the issues related to skills/competitiveness, we are pleased to be able to provide you with a survey that is appropriate for sharing with your members to gather their input on this important issue under the skills umbrella.

We encourage you and your members to provide feedback on all of our surveys on skills issues. This is the sixth survey we have sought your input on. This short survey (4 questions) focuses on issues relative to early childhood education programs.

A short one-page backgrounder on this topic is available if you wish to include it with your survey communications to your members. Don’t forget, if you haven’t filled out our previous surveys they are still live and waiting for you and your members to comment. The list of previous surveys follows:

Survey 1 on post-secondary education

Survey 2 on life-long learning

Survey 3 on older workers and people with disabilities

Survey 4 on integration services of immigrants

Survey 5 on immigration potential through temporary foreign workers; permanent workers and international students

A reminder: the Canadian Chamber will be holding its third skills-related webinar on May 30 at 1 PM ET (please check your local time zone). This webinar is titled “Connecting Education and Employment”.

Please invite your members to attend this session which will focus on the opportunities and best practices for connecting with educators within your community - whether you are looking for employee training, for an intern or apprentice, or for next year’s talent. Please note that while this webinar is free, participants must register and can do so by clicking here.

Webinar: Connecting Education and Employment - Canadian Chamber of Commerce

We are pleased to present the third of several webinars that will focus on the human resource challenges that chambers and their members face today. We encourage you to forward this event invitation to your member businesses so they can take advantage of the valuable information.


Our webinar will focus on Connecting Education and Employment. This webinar will take place on May 30, 2012 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. EDT. (more)

Saint John Hotel Association Promotes Benefits of Tourism to Saint John Through New Campaign

Saint John, N.B. – The Saint John Hotel Association (SJHA) today launched a public awareness campaign to grow local awareness, knowledge and appreciation about the value of tourism to Saint John.

“This is a good news story, and we want to share it with our whole community,” said Paulette Hicks, President of the SJHA.

More than 1.5 million people come to Saint John and spend up to $250 million a year at our local shops, restaurants and other everyday businesses. Tourism employs 1 in 10 people in the Fundy region, which is more than fishing, mining and agriculture combined.

“Tourists visit our community from all over the world – and the farther they travel to Saint John, the more they spend here,” added Hicks, who is also the General Manager of Delta Brunswick and the Brunswick Square Complex.

For example, conference delegates from elsewhere in Canada spend an average of $763 per visit, which is twice as much as in-province delegates. Delegates from outside of Canada spend an average of $1,781 per visit, which is five times as much.

The campaign will feature powerful testimonials from local people who benefit from tourism every day: Dave Forestell (Slocum & Ferris), Shelley DeMerchant (the Urban Shoe Myth), Sharon VanWart (Diamond Taxi) and Wayne Long (the Saint John Sea Dogs).

A testimonial from Jennifer Lanzon, the Executive Director of the National Police Board based in Ottawa, will speak to the benefits that national conferences bring to Saint John. Lanzon brought 250 delegates, companions and speakers to a conference she hosted at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre in August 2010.

“When we held our annual national conference in Saint John, the beautiful harbour, the warm hospitality, choice of restaurants and shops, and high level of service blew us away,” said Lanzon. “People still talk about the Maritime kitchen party.”

Other campaign tactics include the use of a campaign tagline, “We All Win with Tourism in SJ,” the distribution of tent cards and window clings throughout the city, a website (www.WinWithTourismSJ.com), radio ads, contests and social media outreach, including use of the Twitter hashtag #WinTourismSJ.

About the Saint John Hotel Association (SJHA):

The Saint John Hotel Association was formed in 2007 and today has 10 members, representing 997 guest rooms in the Saint John area. It was established to implement the voluntary legislation to collect a 2% Destination Marketing Fee (DMF) and be a catalyst in the formation of the public-private Destination Marketing Organization (DMO). Today’s priorities include working to engage the community and build excitement about the value of tourism, support renovations to the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre and increase DMF revenue to support the DMO.

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For more information, please contact:

Paulette Hicks
President
Saint John Hotel Association
General Manager
Delta Brunswick & Brunswick Square Complex
Phicks@fortisproperties.com
506-648-1657

Cynthia Goodwin
Vice President, Communications
Revolution Strategy
cynthia.goodwin@revolutionstrategy.com
506-646-1833

Business Mentor Info Session

Discover the rewards of mentoring a business immigrant at this fun and free information session.  Lunch will be provided
Tuesday, May 15th at 12:10 pm - 12:50 pm
Business Resource Centre, 40 King Street

(more)

193rd Annual General Meeting & Luncheon

The Saint John Board of Trade held its 193rd Annual General Meeting & Luncheon on Wednesday, May 2nd.  Incoming Chair, Larry Hachey addressed members of the Board of Trade at the luncheon.  To view his speech click here

Campaign on the Clock Connects Voters to Candidates

FUSION Saint John, Saint John Board of Trade and UNBSJ’s Students’ Representative Council present speed-networking event for members and municipal candidates.
With a full slate of names on Saint John’s municipal election roster, three local organizations have partnered to host an event to help voters put faces to names and connect with mayoral and ward candidates. FUSION Saint John, the Saint John Board of Trade and UNBSJ’s Students’ Representative Council (SRC) will co-host Campaign on the Clock, a speed-networking event that gives voters a chance to meet the candidates one-on-one.
“It’s important that voters be engaged in the political process and make informed decisions when casting their ballots,” says Imelda Gilman, president of the Saint John Board of Trade. “By partnering together to host this event, we’re extending our reach beyond our own memberships, and giving participants both a chance to interact directly with candidates and learn more about their platforms. Moreover, it allows for members from three organizations that represent different demographics a chance to connect with one another and discuss the upcoming election.”
This is the second time FUSION and the Saint John Board of Trade have hosted Campaign on the Clock, which was first held in 2008. By partnering with UNBSJ’s SRC, the hope is to engage Saint John’s student population in the political process by giving them direct exposure to the candidates.
All of the mayoral and ward candidates have been invited to attend Campaign on the Clock, and the host organizations expect that candidates running in all four Wards, as well as at-large and for mayor, will be in attendance. In addition, Michael Quinn, Elections New Brunswick’s Chief Electoral Officer, will be on hand with helpful voter information. There will be complimentary appetizers and a cash bar.
What: Campaign on the Clock 2012
When: May 3, 5:30p.m.-8:00p.m.
Where: Market Square Atrium
Who: FUSION Saint John, Saint John Board of Trade, UNBSJ Student Representative Council
About FUSION Saint John
FUSION is a networking group for active, civic-minded greater Saint John residents.
We serve as a catalyst for engagement through networking, partnerships and events, and are a leader in the movement that is helping to prevent the migration of educated young people to larger cities and to encourage those who have left to return to the greater Saint John region.
We strive to breathe new life into greater Saint John, and make it the premier place to live, work and play.
About Saint John Board of Trade
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization with distinction dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
About UNB Saint John Students Representative Council
Established in 1967, the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) of the University of New Brunswick in Saint John (UNBSJ) is a non-profit, apolitical organizations run by students for students. The SRC is an organization made up of approximately 2400 full-time and part-time undergraduate students. As an SRC we offer many essential services to our students such as; health and dental insurance plan, student legal aid, clubs, societies, student activities, social events, federal and provincial lobbying, student employment and more! With the help of the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) and the New Brunswick Student Alliance (NBSA) we will be lobbying tuition hikes, copyright issues, student debt, student loans application process and bursaries.
For more information:
Claire Ryan
FUSION Saint John
506-672-1860 x1
cryan@mtlpr.ca
Imelda Gilman
President, Saint John Board of Trade
506-634-4157
igilman@sjboardoftrade.com
John Runcie
VP External, UNBSJ SRC
506-648-5687
Src-external@unbsj.ca

Canadian Chamber of Commerce Webinar: How to Recruit, Hire and Integrate Skilled Immigrants

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the second of several webinars that will focus on the human resource challenges that chambers and their members face today. The second webinar will focus on How to Recruit, Hire and Integrate Skilled Immigrants. This webinar will take place on April 25, 2012 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. EDT.
Finding workers with the right skills is a big challenge for small and medium-size businesses. Employers are finding it is increasingly hard to find Canadian-born skilled workers. The reality is that immigrants are becoming the source of all new net growth in Canada’s labour force.
Once you realize you need to consider immigrants as potential employees, the question is how to find and recruit them.
In this webinar, you will learn where to turn when looking to hire foreign workers, and which organizations are available to assist employers find and retain employees from Outside Canada. You will hear about the experiences of other Canadian businesses which have attracted and hired immigrants.
There is no cost for participation. Spaces for this webinar are limited. We ask participants to pre-register by clicking her: http://www.meetview.com/chambertop10-20120425/

Barrier 1: Resolving Canada's Skills Crisis Skills Survey #3: Older workers/people with disabilities

As part of the chamber network’s ongoing consultation on the issues related to skills/competitiveness, we are pleased to be able to provide you with a short survey that is appropriate for sharing with your members to gather their input on this important issue under the skills umbrella.
We encourage you and your members to provide feedback on all of our surveys on skills issues. This is the third survey we have sought your input on. This short survey (9 questions) focuses on issues relative to older workers and persons with disabilities; here’s our third survey: http://bit.ly/top10survey3
A short one-page backgrounder on each issue, older workers and persons with disabilities, is available to you if you wish to include them with your survey communications to your members.
Don’t forget, if you haven’t filled out survey #1 on post-secondary education; and survey #2 on life-long learning, they are still live and waiting for you and your members to comment.

Expressions of Interest – Board of Trade Magazine “Currents”

The Saint John Board of Trade would like to solicit proposals from its membership base for its bi-monthly magazine “Currents”. Proposals will only be accepted from interested parties who can be a “one-stop shop” for magazine publication, by coordinating all aspects of the production including editorial, graphic design, advertising sales, printing and delivery. Interested parties must be willing to take a financial risk in this project as all expenses in producing the magazine must be offset by the advertising sales. More details can be obtained by contacting the Saint John Board of Trade.
Interested parties should contact Carole Cunningham, Office & Events Coordinator at ccunningham@sjboardoftrade.com or (506) 634-4153 no later than Friday, April 20, 2012 (4PM) to express their interest in submitting a proposal.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce reaction to the March 29, 2012 Federal Budget

Media Release: “A growth plan to restore Canada’s Competitiveness”
2012 Federal Budget Analysis by the CCC Chief Economist, Tina Kremmidas: http://www.chamber.ca/images/uploads/Hot%20Topics/2012_Federal_Budget_Analysis_FINAL.pdf

Barrier 1: Resolving Canada's Skills Crisis Skills Survey #2: Life-long Learning

As part of the chamber network’s ongoing consultation on the issues related to skills/competitiveness, we are pleased to be able to provide to you with a short survey that is appropriate for sharing with your members and gathering their input on this important issue under the skills umbrella.
We encourage you and your members to provide feedback on our surveys on skills issues. Our second short survey (7 questions) focuses on issues relative to life-long learning; here’s our second survey.
A short one-page backgrounder on this issue is available to you if you wish to include it with your survey communications to your members.
If you haven’t filled out Survey #1 on post-secondary education; you still can, by clicking here.
And don’t forget – This Wednesday, March 28, at 1 PM ET, the Canadian Chamber hosts a webinar on SME Employee Skills Upgrading. We hope you and/or your members will join us for the first in a series of four webinars related to our skills agenda. This seminar is free but you must pre- register.

SME Employee Skills Upgrading

We are pleased to present the first of several webinars that will focus on the human resource challenges that chambers and their members face today. We encourage you to forward this event invitation to your member businesses so they can take advantage of the valuable information. Our first webinar will focus on SME Employee Skills Upgrading. This webinar will take place on Thursday, March 28, 2012 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. EDT. The fastest way to improve your business’ productivity is to grow your employees’ skill sets. Targeted at small- and medium-sized businesses, participants will learn how essential skills in the workplace can make a difference and how to find the skills upgrading support they need. This webinar will feature the following topics: 1. Essential skills, productivity and competitiveness: the Canadian imperative Presenter: T. Scott Murray, DataAngel Policy Research Inc. 2. My employees don’t have the essential skills they need! So what? Now what? Presenter: Janet Lane, Literacy Alberta 3. Practical solutions for your business Presenter: Lindsey McIntosh, Office of Literacy and Essential Skills, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada There is no cost for participation and as we have designed our program to fit busy business schedules, the entire webinar will last one hour. Spaces for this webinar are limited. We ask participants to pre-register by clicking here.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce Top 10 Barriers to Competitiveness Barrier 1: Resolving Canada's Skills Crisis

As part of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce consultation with chamber network on the issues related to skills/competitiveness, we are pleased to be able to provide you with a short survey to gather input on this important issue under the skills umbrella. This survey focuses on issues relative to post-secondary education. We encourage you to complete the survey. Click here to view a short one-page backgrounder on this issue.

Saint John Board of Trade Letter to Premier Alward re 3T MRI

Letter to Premier David Alward regarding our concerns on the Governments plans not to allow the Saint John Regional Hospital to have a 3T MRI.

Click here to view letter

Win a Marketing Makeover

Dear Tourism Colleagues,
The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) is Canada’s national tourism marketing organization. Together with our industry and government partners, we’ve been extremely successful in developing a strong tourism brand for Canada. Our international marketing campaigns and programs increase the market potential of every tourism business in Canada, large and small. We also provide free research and tools on our corporate website to help people develop their tourism business.
The CTC wants to ensure your business is receiving the vital tourism information and marketing knowledge that you feel you need. We also want to determine if creating a community where tourism businesses can connect with each other to learn and share best practices is something we should be exploring. The following survey has been created to provide us with this important information.
On behalf of our team, thank you for completing this survey or for passing it on to your members to complete. Most of all, thank you for helping us do our part in making Canada’s tourism industry stronger and more competitive than ever.
Sincerely,
The Canadian Tourism Commission Team

Saint John Board of Trade Invite and Win!

Who would you like to see join the Board of Trade?
Invite them for the benefits and for your chance to win 4 tickets to a Sea Dogs Game!
Click here for more details.

Letter to Saint John Board of Trade Members from the City of Saint John regarding Saint John Building By-Law Amendment.

Click here to view letter.

Taking on the top 10 barriers to Canadian competitiveness

Canadian Chamber of Commerce outlines approach to sharpen Canada’s competitive edge
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce announced today that it has launched a 10-point national plan aimed at helping Canada regain its competitive edge in the global economy.
After extensive research and consultation with business leaders and member chambers of commerce across the country over the past year, the Canadian Chamber has singled out the top 10 barriers holding Canadian business back and diminishing Canada’s ability to compete.
“We believe it’s time to tackle the issues head-on by providing specific measures to solve them,” said Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. “We will catalogue the cause, impacts and possible solutions for each issue.”
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce will leverage the power and voice of its national network of more than 420 local, regional and provincial/territorial chambers to press for action from all levels of government, businesses and other stakeholders to help sharpen the country’s competitive edge. The members of the chamber network recognize that building a more productive, more competitive economy is a shared undertaking and are eager to be part of the solution.
Over the next several months, the Canadian Chamber will tackle each of the top 10 barriers, with a specific focus on the issue of skills in order to establish tangible, real solutions for Canadian business. “Everywhere I go, businesses of all sizes tell me that their number one concern is finding the right people to do the job”, Beatty added.
“With our cross-country reach and the depth of our collective experience, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and its partners are uniquely positioned to help address these challenges,” Beatty said.
Here are the top 10 barriers to Canadian business the Canadian Chamber will be focusing on over the coming year:
Resolving Canada’s skills crisis. A growing shortage of highly skilled labour is becoming desperate, threatening our ability to keep up in a global, knowledge-based economy.
Returning Canadians to work/Helping federally regulated businesses compete. Our Employment Insurance Program perpetuates regional disparity and discourages Canadians from relocating to where work is available. Federally regulated employers constantly risk being hobbled by overly prescriptive laws and regulations, which their competitors aren’t required to follow.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Improving the tax system. Reforms are needed to repair our tax system, which relies too heavily on the most economically damaging forms of taxation — income and profit taxes — and is overly complex.
Breaking down internal barriers. Internal trade barriers impose unnecessary costs to businesses and consumers, weakening our economy and our ability to compete.
Regulating efficiently. Inefficient government regulatory processes waste valuable time and resources for businesses, hampering their ability to grow and prosper.
Making Canada a magnet for international investment. Canada must remove obstacles in the way of attracting more foreign direct investment, actively promote it and strengthen regulatory regimes to enable it.
Stimulating research and development and bringing it to market. Flaws in the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax incentive program must be addressed so that businesses see it as a reliable and predictable incentive that doesn’t involve significant compliance and administrative costs.
Using technology to make Canada competitive. We must do a better job promoting our knowledge-based economy and take better advantage of our knowledgeable workforce.
Providing the financing businesses need to grow. Canada’s venture capital industry has been struggling for more than a decade, holding back our ability to compete. An aggressive national strategy is needed to build and sustain a robust venture capital industry.
Building 21st century infrastructure. Canada’s infrastructure is rapidly aging and current levels of investment in infrastructure are not keeping up with our needs. Canada needs a national infrastructure investment plan that includes new funding models and increased private-sector involvement.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is the vital connection between business and the federal government. It helps shape public policy and decision-making to the benefit of businesses, communities and families across Canada with a network of over 420 chambers of commerce and boards of trade, representing 192,000 businesses of all sizes in all sectors of the economy and in all regions. News and information are available at www.chamber.ca or follow us on Twitter @CdnChamberofCom.

Importing a New or Used Vehicle into Canada?

Come to our free Seminar!
Thursday, March 1
Topics :
Requirements
Documentation
Prohibitions
Costs
Regulations of the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada, Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the provincial government.
Registration
As seating is limited, please register by telephone at (902) 426-7982
Date: March 1, 2012
Time: 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Hilton Saint John , 1 Market Square
Kennebecasis Room
Language: English
Contacts
For more information or register/cancel by telephone, please call (902) 426-7982 or visit our website at http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/ and select Seminars in the A-Z Index

Customs Information Seminar For New Importers and Exporters

Canada Border Services Agency, Client Services will be offering an informative small business seminar in Saint John for importers and exporters. This three-hour seminar is designed to provide basic information to individuals and small-business entrepreneurs. The objectives of the presentation are to demystify commercial importation, explain essential steps, raise awareness about the requirements of other departments and introduce the available tools and resources.
Topics:
Import process
Release, accounting and payment options
Valuation
Classification
Tariff Treatment
Certificates of Origin
Trade incentives
Corrections, adjustments and appeals
Administrative Monetary Penalty System
Export requirements
Where to get help
We are offering this free seminar at the following location:
Location: Hilton Saint John
Kennebecasis Room
1 Market Square
Saint John, New Brunswick
Time: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Date: March 1, 2012
For more information or to registerPlease call (902) 426-7982 or visit our website at http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/ and select Seminars in the A-Z Index.

Reconnect with UNB Saint John Become an Alumni Advisor!

This fall, UNB Saint John introduced a new program called The Bridge Network. The goal of the three-year pilot project is to foster grassroots connections between the campus and the community, encouraging students to stay and thrive in Saint John by helping them build strong career and lifetime bridges.

Since the project launch in September, students have responded with keen interest and there is a clear appetite for the program’s expansion.

You can help make The Bridge Network an even greater success by becoming an Alumni Advisor.

The Alumni Advisor program allows members of the community to connect with and support the university in a personal and unique way, by:
· Helping students set their career goals and paths at a critical point in their education
· Providing students with industry and field knowledge
· Sharing your successes and your setbacks, and what you learned from them
· Acting as a resource to help ease the transition from school to the working world

As an advisor, you also have the opportunity to identify potential future interns and employees, and access to a talented pool of bright and eager minds. The Bridge Network has been particularly helpful with international students, acting as a vehicle through which these newcomers can connect confidently with the broader Saint John community. Students need to feel they belong here, socially and professionally, and Alumni Advisors can play a big role in making that work.

Advisors set the amount of time they give and determine the level of connection with students. Participants can sit on advisory panels, offer one-on-one mentoring, join in networking seminars or give workshops on various topics. Students who wish to join the program will participate in an Orientation Session so they understand your role as well as your time and contact constraints.

The knowledge you have gathered throughout your academic and working career is invaluable; we are hopeful that you will become an Alumni Advisor and share that experience as we strengthen the connections between you, our students, and the broader community.

Please visit www.unb.ca/bridgenetwork for more information about the program. Also, be sure to check us out on Facebook – just look for The Bridge Network.

NBIF launches $100,000 Innovation Challenge

Did you know that over 90% of people's most innovative ideas go no further than their desktop? That means you or someone in your company could be sitting on a goldmine of an opportunity. But who has the time, resources and technical expertise to figure it out?
Enter the NBIF's R3 Innovation Challenge for a chance at $100,000 worth of R&D at a New Brunswick post-secondary or research institute.
If your company is selected, NBIF will help you find the research talent you need, and any intellectual property developed by the end of your R3IC project will be owned by your company.
Terms and conditions apply. Visit our website to find out more. Talk to your boss. Talk to your staff. Click here to pass it on.

Saint John one of the Top7 Intelligent Communities

Saint John has been named of the world’s Top7 high tech hot spots by the Intelligent Communities Forum. This advances Saint John’s standing from a Smart21 community to the Top7 for 2012.

This gives Saint John international recognition for the progress this Community has made over the past decade, and acknowledgement for the foundation we have built for future growth and prosperity.

For more information visit Enterprise Saint John's website.

Municipal Campaign Training Workshop for Women

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities will be hosting a two-day workshop in Rothesay, February 25th and 26th, 2012, providing campaign training for women in New Brunswick. The workshop will cover a wide range of topics, including: deciding to run, financing the campaign, campaign ethics, canvassing, public speaking, and media training.

The United Nations defines 30 per cent as the minimal percentage of women required for government to reflect women’s concerns. While women make up 52 per cent of the Canadian population, only 24 per cent are elected municipal politicians: 16 per cent of mayors and 25 per cent of councillors. Based on current statistics, Canada would need more than 1400 more women elected to municipal office to reach the 30 per cent target. This represents an increase of approximately 100 women every year for the next 15 years.

For more information click here.

Irving Shipbuilding Online Supplier Registry Goes Live

The following is a news release from J.D. Irving, Limited.

On January 17th Irving Shipbuilding officially launched its Online Supplier Registry, as a part of its extensive preparation for upcoming vessel construction programs associated with the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS).

“Although we are only 90 days into a 30-year process, we felt it was crucial to capture the interest expressed by many local, national and global companies in becoming part of the Irving Shipbuilding supply chain,” said Steve Durrell, President, Irving Shipbuilding.

The registry database, located at www.irvingshipbuilding.com, is designed to gather and categorize information on interested potential suppliers, and assist in consistent communications regarding NSPS-related contracts and projects. Since the Oct. 19th announcement of the successful NSPS shipyards, Irving Shipbuilding has received more than 550 inquiries from suppliers interested in knowing more about upcoming opportunities to provide goods and services.

“We’re currently working on laying important groundwork with the federal government, including the recently announced agreement in principle as well as negotiating the contract for the first set of vessels,” said Steve Durrell, President, Irving Shipbuilding. “We hope to be in a position to begin production on the first set of vessels in late 2013. No supplier selection related to NSPS programs has taken place as yet. We will only be in a position to begin supplier selection when we finalize those agreements and receive further detail on vessel designs and specifications.”

The registry is searchable and will be used by Irving Shipbuilding supply chain professionals to identify suppliers to be invited to participate in future ISI-led supplier development sessions; to identify relevant suppliers to receive Requests for Interest or Requests for Proposal related to specific project requirements; and to help direct further relevant updates and information to suppliers. Both potential and current suppliers are encouraged to register. Registering on the system does not guarantee suppliers will be successful in obtaining work for the upcoming vessel construction projects.

Irving Shipbuilding’s Online Supplier Registry will also feature helpful links, including a link to ACOA for further information and background on the federal government’s Industrial Regional Benefits programs. In addition, for assistance in Controlled Goods, Security Screening, Quality Assurance, Safety and Continuous Improvement, links to participating audit firms have been provided.

Digital Technology Adoption Pilot Program (DTAPP)

As part of the Government of Canada’s Digital Economy Strategy, NRC-IRAP has been selected to deliver the Digital Technology Adoption Pilot Program (DTAPP) from October 2011 to March 31, 2014. DTAPP represents a significant investment into the Canadian economy in an effort to increase the productivity growth of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada across all sectors through the adoption of digital technologies.

For more information click here.

On-line Supplier Registry for Shipbuilding

On January 10th the Saint John Board of Trade hosted a 2012 Outlook Luncheon at the Delta Brunswick Hotel. During the Luncheon Mr. Irving referenced the creation of an on-line supplier registry for companies interested in becoming suppliers for the $32 billion National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy contract Irving Shipbuilding was awarded in October 2011.

Irving Shipbuilding's on-line supplier registry is now 'live'.

For instructions in English click here.

For instruction in French click here.

NBIF launches $100,000 Innovation Challenge

Did you know that over 90% of people's most innovative ideas go no further than their desktop?

That means you or someone in your company could be sitting on a goldmine of an opportunity. But who has the time, resources and technical expertise to figure it out?

Enter the NBIF's R3 Innovation Challenge for a chance at $100,000 worth of R&D at a New Brunswick post-secondary or research institute.

If your company is selected, NBIF will help you find the research talent you need, and any intellectual property developed by the end of your R3IC project will be owned by your company.

Terms and conditions apply. Visit our website to find out more.

Talk to your boss. Talk to your staff. Click here to pass it on.

Crown Land Task Force Report Submission

On January 13, 2012 the Saint John Board of Trade made a submission to the Department of Natural Resources highlighting support for several recommendations made in the Report by the New Brunswick Crown Land Task Force. To view a copy of the submission click here.

Province of New Brunswick announces Canadian Blood Services decision

The following is an excerpt from a news release from the Province of New Brunswick.

The provincial government will continue its relationship with Canadian Blood Services. Health Minister Madeleine Dubé made the announcement today.

"Our government has carefully reviewed the reports and data that were submitted to us along with the comments we received from New Brunswickers and stakeholders," said Dubé. "While our preference was always that Canadian Blood Services blood production remain in New Brunswick, I am comfortable that we have done all in our power to keep Canadian Blood Services here and that this decision to continue and strengthen our relationship with Canadian Blood Services ensures that we have an affordable, safe and available blood supply."

Since early 2009, the provincial government tried to convince Canadian Blood Services to reverse its decision to consolidate blood production services in Dartmouth, N.S. ....

Canadian Blood Services has provided assurances that it remains committed to providing blood services in New Brunswick, and it has made adjustments to its consolidation plans to address concerns expressed by New Brunswick stakeholders.

While production and distribution functions are being consolidated to Dartmouth, Canadian Blood Services will continue:
● to collect blood, plasma and platelets in Saint John;
● to maintain the apheresis platelet program in support of the bone marrow transplant program;
● to use Saint John as the hub for mobile collections in the province;
● to maintain a stock holding unit in Saint John with an inventory of finished blood products for regular, ad hoc and emergency deliveries, which will improve services to hospitals as it results in two distribution points instead of one; and
● to continue to collect blood in Moncton.

To view the full news release click here.

Municipal Campaign Training Workshop for Women in Rothesay

The following is a news release from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities will be hosting a two-day workshop in Rothesay,
February 25th and 26th, 2012, providing campaign training for women in New Brunswick. The
workshop will cover a wide range of topics, including: deciding to run, financing the campaign,
campaign ethics, canvassing, public speaking, and media training.

The United Nations defines 30 per cent as the minimal percentage of women required for
government to reflect women’s concerns. While women make up 52 per cent of the Canadian
population, only 24 per cent are elected municipal politicians: 16 per cent of mayors and 25 per
cent of councillors. Based on current statistics, Canada would need more than 1400 more
women elected to municipal office to reach the 30 per cent target. This represents an increase
of approximately 100 women every year for the next 15 years.

Since 2005, FCM’s Standing Committee on Increasing Women’s Participation in Municipal
Government has undertaken a number of initiatives, activities and programs to encourage
women who are considering running for municipal office. Adopting strategies that are designed
to increase women’s participation in municipal decision-making supports FCM’s mandate to
improve the quality of life in all communities by promoting strong, effective and accountable
municipal government.

The Getting to 30% program is being funded for a two-year period by Status of Women Canada.
The funding is being used to develop, promote and present the Municipal Campaign School
Workshops and Webinars across Canada.

For additional information, please visit www.fcm.ca/women or contact Jennifer Mowbray, 613
907 6219 or jmowbray@fcm.ca

Registration is now open at www.fcm.ca/women

Looking for more choice at the Saint John Airport?

Let’s send a message to Porter Airlines

The local tourism and business communities are working together to bring competitive service to the Saint John Airport. We believe that Porter Airlines is a good option for our community and we want them to know.

We are asking you to take a minute and sign-up for a VIPorter Membership at https://www.flyporter.com/VIPorter/Points?culture=en-CA

The long-term viability of the Saint John Airport rests on its ability to offer competitive service. By joining the VIPorter Membership program, we are signaling our support as a community for an additional airline serving Saint John.

You can find out more about Porter Airlines at www.flyporter.com and choose VIPorter to sign-up as a member.

Let’s bring Porter Airlines to Saint John!

New Brunswick Securities Commission Full Sail Stakeholder Consultation

Making Headway Newsletter
STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

This edition of the Capital Markets Newsletter is focussed on the review of Minimum Amount and Accredited Investor Exemptions currently underway.

The New Brunswick Securities Commission is looking for input from New Brunswick stakeholders in a Canada-wide consultation process.

Click here for more information: www.nbsc-cvmnb.ca/makingheadway

TO TRULY TACKLE POVERTY, SUPPORT THE CREATION OF JOBS

This joint opinion piece by the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce and the Saint John Board of Trade was published in the Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Telegraph Journal on page A5 under the headline 'Higher wages would hinder job creation'.

In recent months there has been plenty of discussion about the increase of the minimum wage in New Brunswick and how this has been linked to the Government’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. In our view the best way to tackle poverty in New Brunswick is to create prosperous employment opportunities, and recent dramatic increases in the Province’s minimum wage have limited the ability of our small businesses to create jobs. Not only does this undermine any meaningful strategy to reduce poverty but it also hinders our Province’s ability to flourish.

In the past two years our province has seen a 21% increase in the minimum wage, an amount that has risen much higher than the rate of inflation. This, coupled with the increases of doing business, has put financial strain on the small business sector at a time when the Province is still severely challenged by the global economic downturn.

The majority of employers in New Brunswick are small businesses. Indeed, 97 percent of businesses are considered to be small and medium sized. Increases in minimum wage only increase an employer’s costs, and in fact, have a ripple effect throughout the entire economy. More often than not, these increases have unintended employment consequences. To underline this point, consider that New Brunswick is still the only province in Canada to have fewer jobs than it did before the 2008 economic crisis began.

It is our opinion that wage increases should be permitted to grow at a rate that is in tune with natural economic growth in the province. In Alberta, where starting wages vary widely, the legislated minimum wage, as of September 2011 is $9.40 per hour, 10 cents below what we have in New Brunswick. The average hourly wage in Alberta is $26.16 while in New Brunswick it is $19.73. That makes the minimum wage in Alberta 35.9% of the average wage compared to 48.1% in New Brunswick. In Alberta the provincial economy is better positioned to absorb minimum wage increases than in New Brunswick.

Quebec economist Pierre Fortin has argued that if the minimum wage is greater than a certain percentage of the average hourly wage in a province, economic evidence suggests that further increases to the minimum wage can have a profoundly negative employment effect. Fortin has suggested that as long as minimum wage remains less than 45% of the average wage it will not impact employers. Above the 45% threshold, employers need to make difficult choices to reduce their costs. For a number of small businesses, that choice unfortunately is layoffs. With the next scheduled increase to $10, N.B.’s minimum wage will jump to an estimated 50% of the average hourly wage in the province. This will only lead to further hard choices for business owners in the province.

In New Brunswick, approximately 23,000 households, rely on social assistance compared to the 15,000 individuals (mostly students) who make minimum wage. The focus should be more on improving policies like tax benefits and other targeted social initiatives rather than imposing increases on employers who work in a free market economy where the laws of supply and demand rule the day.

The poorest households of New Brunswick would be better served through changes to social programs and policies such as increasing the maximum income before tax, increasing the ceiling on income assistance (especially with respect to health cards), and other initiatives to encourage greater participation in the workforce.

A good job is the most meaningful way out of poverty, and our business members would welcome an opportunity to help create more jobs in New Brunswick. We believe an aggressive minimum wage increase undermines this approach.

In closing, the Saint John Board of Trade and Fredericton Chamber of Commerce agree that poverty is too high and the New Brunswick government needs to take concrete steps to reduce the cycle of poverty. However, we do not believe this should be on the shoulders of business. Virtually all economists agree that increasing the minimum wage as a means to tackle poverty is too blunt a policy instrument, and may have unintended employment consequences. Considering that 1 in 5 young New Brunswickers is already unemployed, our province can ill-afford further experimentation with wage rates.

With more than 900 members, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce is one of Atlantic Canada’s largest chambers of commerce. A dynamic and relevant business organization, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce is actively engaged in policy development that affects the competitiveness of our members and of the Canadian business environment.

The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.