Last week, the Canadian Chamber Executives Conference (CCEC) brought Chamber professionals together in Victoria, British Columbia, for two days of learning, collaboration, and meaningful conversations about the future of Chambers of Commerce and the communities they serve.
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) attended the conference alongside Chamber colleagues from across the province and country. The event provided an opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas, celebrate achievements, and explore new approaches to strengthening Chambers and supporting businesses in our communities.
Learning from a National Perspective
One of the greatest benefits of attending a national conference is the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others. While every community has its own opportunities and challenges, Chambers across Canada share many common goals: advocating for business, building strong local economies, supporting their members, and creating thriving communities.
Throughout the conference, discussions highlighted the importance of strong leadership, effective governance, collaboration, and financial sustainability. These conversations reinforced the need for Chambers to continue evolving, finding innovative ways to deliver value to members, and responding to the changing needs of the business community.
For Tessa Masi, Executive Director of the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, the opportunity to connect and learn from fellow Chamber professionals was one of the most valuable aspects of the conference.
“CCEC is always a great opportunity to learn from others, share ideas of what is working well in your area, and ask questions of your peers who have the same challenges that you are facing. I’m coming away from CCEC this year with fresh ideas and, most importantly, encouragement to keep leading my Chamber well.”
That exchange of ideas and experiences is what makes CCEC so valuable. Chamber leaders have an opportunity to learn from one another, explore solutions to shared challenges, and return home with practical ideas they can put into action.
The Value of Connection and Collaboration
A key theme throughout the conference was the power of collaboration. Chambers are often at their strongest when they work alongside other business organizations, community partners, and local leaders to advance shared priorities.
The ability to connect, collaborate, and share insights with other Chamber professionals is incredibly valuable. These conversations often spark new ideas, introduce different ways of approaching familiar challenges, and provide opportunities to learn about programs and partnerships that can benefit Chamber organizations.
As another important benefit, CCEC provides an opportunity to explore programs and services that can create strong non-dues revenue opportunities for Chambers. With financial sustainability continuing to be a priority for many organizations, learning about new revenue streams, efficiencies, and innovative approaches to delivering value can have a meaningful impact long after the conference ends.
While attending CCEC the value extends well beyond the conference itself. With the right takeaways, connections, and opportunities, Chamber leaders can identify efficiencies, explore new revenue opportunities, and find ways to generate a return on that investment and potentially much more.
For Manitoba, continuing to foster these connections and share knowledge across our provincial Chamber network is an important part of building a resilient and competitive business environment. When Chambers learn from one another and share what is working in their communities, the entire network benefits.
Celebrating Excellence in the Chamber Profession
The conference was also an opportunity to recognize important achievements within the Chamber network.
During the event, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce was presented with its Certificate of Accreditation for 2027–2031 by the Chamber Accreditation Council of Canada.
This national accreditation recognizes MCC’s commitment to strong governance, operational excellence, transparency, and accountability. It reflects our ongoing dedication to serving Manitoba’s business community, supporting our members, and contributing to a thriving provincial economy.
We were also pleased to celebrate Tessa Masi, who received her Accredited Chamber Executive (ACE) certificate for meeting the industry standard of excellence in the Chamber profession.
This professional designation recognizes a commitment to leadership, knowledge, and excellence in Chamber management. Tessa’s achievement is a great example of the dedication and professionalism that strengthen Manitoba’s Chamber network.
We are proud to celebrate these accomplishments and the individuals and organizations working to advance the Chamber profession across our province.
Taking Ideas Home to Manitoba
Beyond the formal sessions, the opportunity to connect with Chamber colleagues was a highlight of the experience. Sharing successes, discussing challenges, and learning from different approaches helps strengthen the broader Chamber network.
The insights and relationships developed at this year’s CCEC offered valuable opportunities to reflect on how we can continue supporting Manitoba’s Chambers, advocating for our business communities, and helping create the conditions for businesses to succeed.
As we look ahead, the conversations in Victoria serve as a reminder that strong Chambers are built through collaboration, continuous learning, and a shared commitment to the communities we represent.
Thank you to the organizers and everyone who contributed to making CCEC26 a valuable opportunity for professional development, connection, and recognition. The work continues back home, and the ideas, relationships, and encouragement shared in Victoria will help inform the conversations and initiatives that move Manitoba’s business communities forward.
