GEORGE GREENWOOD
KELOWNA – The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce is experiencing unprecedented membership growth in the first quarter of 2025, despite the continuing uncertainty being felt by businesses in the Okanagan.
Shane Osborne, Manager of Business Development for the Chamber said, “The demand for Chamber services hasn’t been this high for a couple of years. We are all seeing the news and survey information: uncertainty; long-term business confidence ‘crumbling’ according to Credit 1 economist Bryan Yu – it seems that businesses are turning to the Chamber to shore up their business planning.”
“I don’t have a crystal ball,” said Osborne. “Is it that business leaders recognize the power of collective advocacy? The Chamber has been spending a lot of time talking to our business members, speaking to media, hosting a tariff panel with local CEOs – I think this means our members see their voices heard and reflecting challenges and opportunities all at the same time.”
The Chamber notes its growth curve is the highest year over year upturn post-pandemic. “Whatever the root cause,” said Osborne, “we know that the Chamber is well-positioned to bring up-to-date data and networking support to members. We’re the largest Chamber by membership outside the Lower Mainland/Coast, and we really are emotionally invested in the well-being of our members. Plus, we have the support of the deep resources of Canadian Chamber analysts and their government connections.”
In response, the Chamber intensified advocacy efforts at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels, ensuring that members receive timely insights and a platform to raise concerns. It plans to continue hosting roundtables and panel discussions in which members take part at this extraordinary political moment.
As Kelowna’s business community grows, the Chamber continues to support a strong and stable network, providing advocacy and collaboration to support long-term economic sustainability.
George Greenwood is CEO of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce
