Vision 2009 - Highlights

Vision 2009 is the most aggressive plan ever presented by your Chamber. We understand the importance of planning for the future while strengthening and cultivating the local economy today.

The Chamber will continue to host business related monthly events like luncheons, mixers and the Business AM Roundtables in 2009. We will also focus on expanding our educational business development seminars, marketing and sales consultation, and business start up workshops.

We will expand and improve some of the new events added in 2008, like the Business Distinction Awards and Chamber Fest and we hope to introduce new and exciting events that will have a huge brand and economic impact for the region.

The Chamber team takes pride in its ability to creatively develop and implement new concepts, and 2009 has five (5) key initiatives we are proud to present. Starting immediately, we will;

• Meet with both Mayors and Councils to present our goals and objectives for the short and long term viability of the region, develop and strengthen the relationships and create new partnerships around specific initiatives.
• Champion the development of a new conference centre or tradex facility in the region
• Work with the Economic Development (EDAC / EAC) committees to develop a regional marketing plan.
• Introduce and implement seven (7) new web-based business development tools for the membership.
• Aggressively promote an “Open for Business” marketing plan to help develop, support and sustain the locally economy
• Promote all chamber related events in and around the region to increase exposure for members

Vision 2009 – Highlights (dates could change and more detail swill be announced)

• Chamber Car
  Sponsored by the West Coast Auto Group and decorated by Sign a Rama, the “Open for Business” community cruiser will attend all sorts of functions and events and will be full of goodies for those who approach the driver during some of our special promotion contests.
• January 21, 2009 – “Happy New Year” Business Mixer
  Meadow Gardens – The Loft (Upstairs 5pm – 7pm)
• February 16 - 20, 2009 – Chamber Week
• February 19, 2009 – Business Distinction Awards
  Eight (8) more businesses from our region will enter our Wall of Fame. Nominees will be introduced in January.
• March – Golden Ears Gateway Report
• March – Spring Business Showcase & Conference
• March – Spring Wine Taster at Pitt Meadows Golf Course
• April – Luncheon with Special Guest
• May – Home Show
• May – All Candidates Meetings (Provincial Election)
• June 19 – 21, 2009 - Outdoor and Recreation Showcase
  Hosted around Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, this weekend event will showcase all the wonderful sport and tourism businesses and destinations our communities have to offer. Canoeing, golf, hiking, camping, trail riding (bike or horse) and a fishing derby are just a few of the week’s highlights. More details to come….
• Summer  – Party on the Bridge
  Hosted by the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows and the Langley Chamber this event is still in development.
• August 8, 2009 – Chamber Fest 2009
  Cold beverages, bbq and special musical guests to be announced.
• September – Back to Work Business Mixer
• October 19 - 23 – Small Business Week
• October 22, 2009 - Business Excellence Awards & Gala