NANAIMO – This summer, the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce unites forces with Tourism Nanaimo to focus the spotlight of our local tourism industry on a networking, professional development and leadership awareness program called “Tourism Matters”.
With annual visitor spending of over $75,000,000 in the Nanaimo area, tourism is clearly vital to our community and its economy. From hotels to campgrounds, retailers to car rentals and restaurants – Nanaimo has more than 1,200 businesses that cater to visitors year-round. Therefore, a partnership of the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Nanaimo makes perfect sense to salute this sector on a regular and frequent basis.
“Tourism Matters” is a sector-focused endeavor — just one more way of bringing the working parts of that particular business community together to get to know each other, educate themselves about their industry, and share in professional development events.
The first partnered “Tourism Matters” event took place in July at Pioneer Waterfront Plaza, with the venue sponsored by the Nanaimo Port Authority. Additional sponsorship came through the DNBIA. Representatives of major summer events and festivals provided an overview of Nanaimo’s coming celebrations. Intense networking spread the word about other tourism businesses in the community, and there were plenty of ‘outside the box’ idea exchanges to add energy.
Whether you’re a Chamber member or not, “Tourism Matters” events are a great way for businesses to get to know each other, contribute to the offers we make to tourists and help enhance Nanaimo as a great destination. Watch the Chamber website for announcements of future events.
The Chamber will also be creating similar future opportunities with the manufacturing, export, and technology sectors in the coming months as well. Those efforts won’t be a duplication of “Tourism Matters”, instead programs will be developed that suit the individual needs and demands of each sector. Keep connected.
NOTE: “Feast-ival” is coming September 26. It’s a new and exciting showcase of the local food and beverage scene featuring some of the finest locally-sourced products, ingredients, talent and attractions on the mid-Island. Meet the folks who make and grow your favourite food and drink, all in one place, at one amazing event. Tickets available at the Chamber of Commerce 250-756-1191, ext #4 or email: registration@nanaimochamber.bc.ca
– Kim Smythe is CEO of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at ceo@nanaimochamber.bc.ca.
