Save the Date – Kentville Businesses & Residents
Please save the date for an upcoming community meeting being hosted by Minister John Lohr, in collaboration with the Downtown Kentville Business Community.
When: January 22, 2026
Time: 7 – 10pm
Where: Kentville Firehall
This will be an open, public meeting — all are welcome to attend.
The purpose of this gathering is to bring our community together for a thoughtful, solutions-focused conversation about the challenges we’re seeing downtown, the realities behind them, and the supports needed to move forward in a way that allows both local businesses to thrive and individuals who are unwell in community to be supported with care.
We’re currently finalizing the agenda and confirming panel participants. More details will be shared in the coming week, including the full agenda and speaker list.
For now, we encourage you to save the date and plan to join us for what we hope will be a constructive, clarifying, and forward-looking conversation for our community.
More information to follow soon.
Policy Matters: The Top 3 Topics of 2025
Overview of Atlantic Canada’s Population Growth & Workforce Strategy
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce has developed a focused strategy to accelerate population growth, improve talent retention, and strengthen long-term workforce development across the region. These initiatives aim to build the skilled, stable workforce needed to support a competitive and sustainable Atlantic Canadian economy.
Events & Workshops
Workplace Education: Transformational Leadership
Start date: January 15, 2026
Workplace Education: Computerized Accounting
Start date: January 22, 2026
January 11th, 2026 at 5 PM
From Our Members
In 2025, Open Arms experienced a year of unprecedented growth, expanding its infrastructure, developing new programs, and strengthening key partnerships.
As the challenges facing unhoused community members became increasingly complex, Open Arms’ response became more targeted and effective. By maintaining a focus on Housing First initiatives, the organization provided more than a safety net—it built a bridge. From supporting chronically unhoused individuals into stable housing to quickly mobilizing responses during the provincial woods ban, the Open Arms team consistently stepped up to meet the needs of the community.
Willow & Withers Stables, Nova Scotia’s First Horse Simulator
Valley Regional Hospital Patient Care Strengthened Through Community Support
STICK & PUCK – ALL ARE WELCOME
ParaPower Play is excited to launch Friday Stick & Puck sessions beginning January 2.
Location: Greenwood Arena
Time: 6:45–7:45 p.m.
When: Every Friday
These sessions are open to everyone—all ages and all abilities. Individuals with disabilities, as well as those curious about para hockey, are invited to try the sleds in a relaxed, non-team environment. There is no pressure and no commitment required—participants are welcome to simply come and give it a try.
Gear Requirements
Children: Full hockey gear required
Adults: Helmet, gloves, stick, and skates required
Using the sleds: Gloves and a helmet are required
The goal of Stick & Puck is to create a fun, inclusive, and welcoming environment where both able-bodied participants and those with disabilities can experience para hockey without practicing with the team.
Participants are encouraged to skate, shoot, learn, and enjoy the experience. Community members are welcome to spread the word and bring a friend.
Municipality of the County of Kings
2026 dog tags are available now! Dog tags can help the Municipality reunite owners with lost or injured pets. Visit the Municipality’s website to learn more about how to register your dog today: https://www.countyofkings.ca/dog-licensing
For Our Members
Make 2026 Your Year with the Chamber
The new year is a great time to make the most of your Chamber membership. There are many opportunities to connect, learn, and grow your business in 2026.
Explore all the ways your membership can support your goals and help you make the most of the year ahead!
Chamber Members – Are You Using the Chamber Perks App?
As part of your Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce membership, you have free access to the Chamber Perks Mobile App, a powerful marketing tool for your business.
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Promote your business in the mobile business directory
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Increase visibility to fellow Chamber members and app users
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Create exclusive perks or discounts to attract new customers
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Add value for your employees with access to member-only savings
If you’re looking for a simple way to boost exposure and engagement in 2026, the Chamber Perks App is a great place to start.
Not signed up yet? Contact the Chamber to get started: info@annapolisvalleychamber.ca
Contact info@annapolisvalleychamber.ca to learn more and get started today!
Chamber Members: Access HR Covered
As an Annapolis Valley Chamber member, you have access to HR Covered, a trusted partner for small businesses and not-for-profits across Canada.
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Complimentary HR tools and resources
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Support for over 2,000 businesses and 60,000+ employees
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Mission-driven to limit employer liability with cost-effective HR support
New Members
