With more than 450 Canadian Chamber of Commerce annual general meeting  delegates spending time and money in York, the national spotlight is focused squarely on our communities and commerce, Vaughan Chamber of Commerce CEO Deborah Bonk said.

“First of all, we’re thrilled the meeting is being hosted in York Region,” she said. “This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our region to the rest of Canada.

“The delegates are business people from all over. Some may be looking to relocate or open satellite offices in York. Some of our colleagues are in tourism and it’s an opportunity to network and have them direct people to us.”

While the financial benefits to local enterprise have yet to be calculated, it should be substantial.

“There’s definitely an opportunity for dollars to stay in York Region,” Ms Bonk said.
Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce CEO Leslie Walker agrees.

“The meeting has been in Toronto, never in Markham,” she said. “This is a historic event. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase Markham and the region.”

Ms Walker, whose chamber has 600 members, said the local economy will be buoyed by the delegates, many of whom have brought friends and family.

The region’s nine chambers have collaborated on the event, including companion tours throughout York Region. Visitors can choose from a variety of trips and tours.
Regional main streets, malls, wineries, golf courses and cultural and entertainment attractions are poised to welcome delegates and guests. Among the destinations awaiting visitors are Paramount Canada’s Wonderland, McMichael art gallery, Vaughan Mills and Willow Springs Wineries.

“There will be a lot of residual benefits,” she said. “Hotels are obvious. We’ve hired local people and services. There‘s a dine around on Sunday with restaurants across York involved.

“Many economic development departments will attend our host night. The bonus is the chance to show how well all the chambers in York work together.”

The host chambers have made sure the delegates are entertained and informed.

The executive awards dinner is tonight at York Downs Golf Club. Tomorrow, the diversity of our nine municipalities will be featured at A Taste of York Region at the Markham Civic Centre, followed by the Celebration of the Arts program at the Markham Theatre.

Federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty addresses the delegates Sunday morning. Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty is guest speaker at the luncheon Monday. The gala dinner is that evening at the Paramount Hall.