Building More Than a Business: Why Your Local Chamber Matters by Paul Jenkins, CEO, St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce In a city as vibrant as St. Thomas, where ‘St. Thomas Proud’ isn’t just a hashtag but a way of life, small business owners often feel like they have to wear every hat – accountant, marketer, and visionary. But even the most driven entrepreneur shouldn’t have to build alone. For those looking to move from surviving to thriving, the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce is the ultimate partner in your corner. As the voice of more than 600 businesses, non-profits, and charities across St. Thomas, Central Elgin, and Southwold, we are a powerful network of community builders. If you aren’t one of the 600 yet, here is why you should be. A Competitive Edge for Your Bottom Line Membership is often more affordable than your morning coffee, with rates starting at roughly $27 per month. For that small investment, the returns are substantial. One of the most significant perks for small teams is access to the Chambers Plan, Canada’s largest group benefits provider. This allows you to offer health, dental, and life insurance at stable, industry- leading rates usually reserved for large corporations. Visibility That Hits Home Joining the Chamber amplifies your local presence instantly. We actively promote our members through social media
channels that average nearly 100,000 impressions per month. Beyond digital, we feature members on 94.1 myFM, This Month in Elgin, and right here in Hometown St. Thomas . When you join, you are plugged into a trusted network where consumers are 60% more likely to buy from you simply because of your Chamber affiliation. Whether it’s through our Member Directory or ‘Our Favourite Things – Your Guide to Shopping Local’, you aren’t just a shop on the corner—you’re a recognized leader. Advocacy, Education, and Connection The Chamber acts as your voice at all three levels of government. We work with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to advocate for policies that help local businesses thrive. Locally, we bring your concerns directly to our municipal leaders. We also empower our members through education, hosting workshops on everything from cyber-security to mental health to employee retention. Of course, we also know how to celebrate! Our prestigious Im- pact Awards recognize local business and community excellence, while our monthly Business After 5s – almost always drawing over 100 professionals – provides the perfect space to ‘break bread’ and share ideas. Small businesses are the heartbeat of St. Thomas and Elgin County. By joining the Chamber, you aren’t just buying a membership; you’re investing in a support system that works just as hard as you do.
WHERE BUSINESS COMES ALIVE
Residential / Commercial 24/7 Emergency Services Licensed & Insured
Page 26 Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026
To advertise here contact Geoff@VillagerPublications.com
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs