CHRISTINE JONTZ-BARBOUR
SALMON ARM – The Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce is celebrating a successful and impactful 2024, marked by growth, advocacy, and community-building initiatives that brought businesses together and strengthened local connections.
A Year of Growth and Engagement
In 2024, the Chamber welcomed over 50 new members, underscoring its role as a hub for businesses across the region. This growth reflects the Chamber’s commitment to providing value-driven programs, events, and resources that empower local businesses to thrive.
Networking remained a cornerstone of the Chamber’s initiatives, with 12 “Business After Business” events held throughout the year. These monthly gatherings provided members with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and build relationships in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Advocacy at the Forefront
The Chamber continued to amplify the voices of local businesses by advocating at all levels of government. By addressing key issues affecting the local economy, workforce, and community development, the Chamber positioned itself as a strong advocate for its members, ensuring their concerns and needs were heard.
Celebrating Excellence: The 1st Annual Business Excellence Awards
A major highlight of 2024 was the launch of the 1st Annual Business Excellence Awards—an event designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of outstanding local businesses. The awards brought the community together to honor innovation, leadership, and dedication among Salmon Arm’s business leaders.
The success of this inaugural event reflects the strength of the local business community and sets the stage for an even bigger celebration in 2025.
Congratulations to our winners:
Community Spirit: DeMille’s Farm Market
Health & Wellness: Meridian Integrative Health
Hospitality: Ecotreats Cafe
Non-Profit: Shuswap Association for Community Living
Tech & Manufacturing: 4AG Robotics
Member of the Year: Garret Pristie
Personal Services: Fern & Co
Professional Services: Trilogy Solutions
Recreation/Entertainment: Salmon Arm Folk Music Society
Retail: Skookum Bike & Ski
Trades: Integrity Roofing
Business of the Year: Ricochet Brewing and Taphouse
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the Chamber reflects on a productive year, it remains focused on building momentum into 2025. Plans are already underway for expanded programming, continued advocacy, and new opportunities for businesses to connect and grow.
Executive Director Christine Jontz-Barbour shared her gratitude for the support of members, sponsors, and partners: “2024 was a year of collaboration and growth. From welcoming new members to celebrating business excellence, we’ve seen the power of working together. We’re excited to build on this success in 2025 and continue supporting businesses in Salmon Arm.”
The Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce invites local businesses to join them in the year ahead as they work to strengthen the local economy and foster a thriving business community.
For more information, contact Christine Jontz-Barbour at the Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce.