St. John’s Board of Trade and Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council Working Towards Merger
To our members,
With a shared vision for the future, the St. John’s Board of Trade and the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council are working to bring our years of experience representing the provincial business community under one roof to be a stronger, more effective, member-focused organization. This is expected to unfold in the coming months and represents a significant leap forward in our mission to serve you better.
For years, both organizations have ensured that the perspectives and input of business owners and operators have informed policy makers to create a province conducive to and competitive for business. Both the Board of Trade and Employers’ Council have been dedicated to reducing the burden placed on businesses and making our province an attractive place to invest and grow.
As part of this move, we will be seeking member approval to change our name from the St. John’s Board of Trade to the Newfoundland and Labrador Board of Trade. As most of the advocacy efforts of the Board of Trade are applicable to the provincial business community, and not just to businesses based in St. John’s, we believe we should adopt a name that reflects our province-wide dedication.
Thank you for your continued support and trust in us. We are excited to embark on this new chapter together, confident in the brighter future we are creating for our members and the entire business community of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the St. John's Board of Trade and the Employers' Council merging?
The Board of Trade and Employers' Council share a similar mandate. Both work to represent the voice and perspective of business throughout the province and build a Newfoundland and Labrador that is business friendly.
We believe we'll be more successful together.
What does this mean for St. John's Board of Trade members?
We want to assure you that your membership with the Board of Trade will remain unchanged. This means no change in your membership fee, and you will continue to receive the same member benefits.
What will change is that, following this merger, you will be a part of a larger network with a stronger collective voice for business.
Will the Newfoundland and Labrador Board of Trade continue to advocate on the municipal level in St. John's?
It will be business as usual. Our municipal focus will remain with the City of St. John's.
The Board of Trade will continue to represent the interests of businesses in St. John's and bring their perspective forward to the municipality.
Will the Newfoundland and Labrador Board of Trade begin to advocate on a municipal level outside of St. John's?
No. Our municipal focus will always remain the City of St. John's.
However, we will always be available to work with local Chambers throughout the province if they would like to partner on any advocacy efforts.
I have a membership with my local Chamber of Commerce, should I keep it?
Absolutely! The Newfoundland and Labrador Board of Trade's aim will be to work alongside provincial Chambers, enhancing the collective voice of our business community.
We respect and value the unique roles and contributions of each Chamber and will not compete with them.
How will this affect other Chambers of Commerce in the province?
There should be no change in how they do business and support their community.
Our objective is to complement and amplify the work of Chambers throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
We look forward to finding opportunities to work together, particularly on joint advocacy initiatives that support businesses throughout the province.
Can I expect the same lineup of events throughout the year?
Our signature events aren't going anywhere. You'll be able to enjoy your favourite Board of Trade events including Business Bootcamp, Golf Classic, the Business Awards Gala, and State of the Province.
When will the merger be complete?
We are diligently working through the necessary processes to ensure a seamless merger, and we anticipate completion in the upcoming months.
Rest assured, we will keep you informed every step of the way as we approach this new chapter.
Have a question that's not answered here? Please reach out to us at any time: mail@bot.nf.ca.