Equipped with foundational research and an engaged business community, The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce provides   expert advice to government – advice that is often reflected in future public policy.   Our advocacy efforts are formed by our corporate members as well as the 63 local Chambers of Commerce members through their participation in issue-specific task forces as well as our AGM resolution process and continual solicitation of member feedback.

Task Forces

The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce researches and develops policy positions that serve to enhance the province’s business competitiveness, and to ensure that Manitoba is an attractive place to invest, conduct business and attract skilled talent.

The Policy committee and team help shape the issues for which we advocate through a policy resolution process.

At our Annual General Meeting (AGM), chamber members gather to debate and define the resolutions that inform advocacy efforts for the coming year(s). As a member you are invited to participate and influence on important resolutions that affect your business.

Once an issue has been identified, a task force is sometimes then organized. These task forces are made up of industry experts who lend knowledge and expertise to better inform an advocacy plan and offer solutions to the barriers identified by the membership and  the wider business community.

Very often the President and the Policy Committee will form special Task Forces of experts to tackle specific issues that have emerged during monthly committee meetings or upon requests from local chambers.

In 2012-2013 we have special advisory task forces that are working with area experts on issues pertaining to Health in Manitoba, Water and Flooding,  an Arctic  (Northern) Strategy for economic growth.  We are grateful to these professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to assist the president and staff on current and vital issues.

Resolutions and Issues

There are many reasons for joining Manitoba’s most influential business advocacy group.  Some of the key issues that we are working on this coming year include Northern Agriculture, Technical Barriers to Trade,  Lake Winnipeg’s Watershed, Payroll Tax Reform,  A Citizens’ View of Healthcare, Aboriginal Procurement,  Churchill and a Northern Economic Development Strategy.  Our website has a full report on all of the resolutions that our public affairs team are working on.

Gold key service

The Chamber understands how busy schedules can get. We also recognize that we are here to work for you, and with your business.  Members have the option of a senior staff member or expert volunteer visiting with you or  a member of your team to understand your challenges, so we can assist you to find a solution.

For More Information please contact:

Policy and Advocacy | contact Sue Barkman, Director of Policy | sbarkman@mbchamber.mb.ca | 204-948-0103