Advocacy

Policy Matters: Why It’s Time to Go All-In on Canada’s Economic Sovereignty

Our country has been on high alert since November 25, 2024, when then President-Elect Donald Trump threatened 25% across-the-board tariffs on Canada. These tariffs are set to do real damage to our economy — analysis from the Business Data Lab finds that 25% tariffs could reduce our GDP by 2.6%, the equivalent of Canadian households losing an average of $1,900 per year.

Canada’s trade with the U.S. has long been a strength — we are a critical and reliable supply chain partner for U.S. companies and consumers, with almost two-thirds of our trade being in intermediate inputs (used to make final products). However, we’ve been patching our economic holes with the convenience of U.S. trade for years and it’s left us vulnerable to a situation like the one we find ourselves in now.

Job number one is protecting our economic sovereignty and security. In addition to navigating retaliation as well as what emergency measures we put in place at home, we must focus on doing what’s in our control to build a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy.

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While the economy showed some resilience in early 2024, this quarter’s findings reveal that business optimism continues to erode, particularly among exporters.

Don’t forget to visit the page on our website here. We post resources and news as we receive it from the province & Chamber network.

Canada’s Provincial Chambers of Commerce Recommend Agenda for Premiers

(Toronto, March 6, 2025) – As Canada enters a trade war provoked by the United States, the nation’s provincial chambers of commerce have come together to present An Agenda for Economic Growth and Stability, a set of recommendations to Canada’s premiers to drive economic growth, strengthen domestic trade, and elevate Canada’s global competitiveness.

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Upcoming Events & Workshops

Tips & Taps: Cybersecurity

Join us for an update on the current state of Cybersecurity by Matthew Magee from Adaptive Office Solutions discussing essential cybersecurity best practices tailored for local business owners followed by a Q&A and networking.

How to Facilitate Workshops

Ready to elevate your workshops? 🚀 Whether you’re adding them to your product line or need to facilitate sessions in your role, this program has you covered! We’re taking it beyond the basics by integrating AI!

Professional Sales Training

develop skills in anticipating and overcoming objections as well as confirming the sale. Through this process, you’ll craft a sales pitch you can test in the marketplace and enhance your sales mindset.

Learn Best Practices for Communication

Communication Skills for Frontline Employees is designed to support you in navigating through the changing trends around how people
communicate in the workplace and marketplace.

Valley’s Best 2025

Valley’s Best is the Annapolis Valley’s People’s Choice Awards. We provide 25 business categories, and you vote for your favourite business. 

Cellar Feast

Join Chef Michael Smith and The Inn at Bay Fortune Fire Brigade at Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards for a collaborative Cellar Feast and an intimate culinary experience, featuring the best of their farms and vineyard.

Member Benefits

The Chambers Plan

Each employee has different insurance needs, thankfully Chambers Plan lets them choose what works best for them. Through Personal Benefits, employees can purchase additional life, critical illness, and travel coverage, whenever they need it. Check it out in the my-benefits app.

Contact coordinator@annapolisvalleychamber.ca to learn more.

Chamber Perks

Shop local. Save more. Support your community.
The Chamber Perks App connects you with exclusive discounts from Canadian businesses, helping you save money while helping both your community and Canada THRIVE!

Download The Chamber Perks App today to redeem 📱

Discounted Rentals

At the Valley Business Hub, we offer flexible workspaces for rent. Whether you’re a start-up, need a meeting or workshop space, want to escape your home office, or need a dedicated workspace in the Annapolis Valley, we have options to suit your needs!

From our Members

Nova Scotia’s wineries uncork new tourism opportunities

The Government of Canada has announced a $150,000 investment in Wine Growers Nova Scotia to enhance wine tourism, expand industry training, and position our region as a must-visit, year-round destination. This includes new marketing initiatives and the launch of the Nova Scotia Vine and Wine Ambassador program, helping winery and hospitality staff deliver an unforgettable experience to visitors.
A huge congratulations to our Chamber Champion members, Wines of Nova Scotia, on this exciting milestone! Their leadership is helping grow our local tourism economy, attract more visitors, and showcase the world-class wines of our region.

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Exciting News: Secura Vita Bed & Breakfast Grand Opening! April 26, 2025, 2 -5 PM

Secura Vita is excited to announce the grand opening of their one-of-a-kind Bed and Breakfast in Clementsport, Nova Scotia! Located at 2153 Highway 1, this 16-acre property offers a serene and picturesque escape along the beautiful Annapolis Basin. Secura Vita, which translates to “carefree life” in Latin, promises guests a peaceful and eco-conscious retreat where nature and comfort come together in harmony.

As part of their commitment to sustainability, Secura Vita has made numerous environmentally-friendly upgrades to the property. These include the installation of energy-efficient heat pumps, a solar energy system, and the removal of the oil boiler. The property also features a deep well providing fresh, delicious water, along with organic gardens that grow a variety of fruits and vegetables. Guests will also enjoy the company of free-range chickens.

The Rooms: Secura Vita offers four thoughtfully designed rooms, each with its own private bathroom and unique charm:

  • Canopy Bedroom Suite: This enchanting suite boasts a double canopy bed, perfect for a relaxing and whimsical stay. Guests will enjoy views of the front gardens and raised vegetable beds, with an ensuite accessible washroom featuring a seat in the shower for added comfort.

  • Family Art Suite: Ideal for families, this suite includes a queen bed, an electric fireplace, a TV/DVD player with a large selection of DVDs, and walls adorned with personal art projects from the owner’s family. Guests can enjoy views of the grapevines, backyard, and Annapolis Basin. The bathroom is conveniently located in the hall outside the suite.

  • Basin View Suite: With a queen bed, stereo system, and a curated collection of CDs, this cozy suite provides a perfect space for relaxation. The ensuite bathroom has a shower, and the suite offers a serene view of the backyard and Annapolis Basin.

  • Family Suite: Designed for families with children, this suite features a king bed, a day bed, and an ensuite bathroom with a large bathtub and shower. The suite also includes a small nursery room with a crib and change table, offering a peaceful setting for naptime. Guests will enjoy views of the backyard, Annapolis Basin, and the front gardens.

Additional Amenities and Services:

  • A delicious, made-to-order breakfast is included with every stay, with a choice of hot or cold options.
  • The property is equipped with a stair climbing device for those who require assistance, and emergency supplies, including an AED, Narcan, and a first aid kit, are available on-site.
  • Staff members are trained in first aid, and the nearest ambulance service is just 10 minutes away in Annapolis Royal.

Secura Vita is excited to welcome guests to experience the carefree life that the property embodies, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, comfort, and sustainability.

Grand Opening Celebration: Secura Vita invites guests to celebrate their grand opening! More details will be shared soon about how to join in this exciting event.

Our goal is to help build successful and innovative businesses that contribute to a vibrant and entrepreneurial Nova Scotia. 

CEED, Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development

Bringing unconventional Mexican-themed handheld food + drink to 437 Main St. Kentville NS. Emphasizing local ingredients in a fast-casual setting. Our mission: Making a difference, one taco at a time!

TACOcentric