Chamber Updates & Local News

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, one thing remains constant: the demand for adaptable, creative, and technically skilled workers. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and the skilled trades are at the forefront of this transformation, offering young people diverse pathways to meaningful work. Yet, for many youth, the idea of “what’s out there” can…

In today’s rapidly shifting economy, innovation isn’t just for big tech – it’s essential for small and medium-sized businesses looking to stay competitive and grow. Whether you run a local retail shop, manufacture specialty parts, or support our healthcare system, smart innovation can connect your business to new opportunities that improve efficiency, attract customers, and…

2025 has been a year of economic instability, but with some cautious optimism-we can work together to strengthen our community. One powerful way to do that is by supporting businesses, non-profits, and individuals who make Kingston the special place it is. Giving back has always been central to my family’s journey. As some of Tim…

In business, every decision is a bit like a group project-if it goes well, everyone celebrates. If it goes poorly, no one remembers who suggested it. While good decisions can drive growth and innovation, bad ones tend to leave behind a trail of budget overruns, awkward meetings, and the occasional “learning opportunity.” Let’s take a…

Behind every successful sports team is a strong community, and behind every strong community are local businesses that believe in something bigger than themselves. The bond between sports teams and local businesses runs deep. It’s more than sponsorships or signage; it’s a shared identity. When a team wins, the community celebrates, and so do the…

As business owners, we give so much of ourselves to what we’ve built-time, energy, creativity, and care. But too often, our own well-being (and that of our teams) gets left behind. We accept stress, overwork, and isolation as part of the deal. We wear burnout like a badge of honour. But it doesn’t have to…

Earlier this month, a delegation from the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce joined over 50 chambers from across the province for the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s 10th Annual Advocacy Day at Queen’s Park. Representing Kingston were Chamber Chair Kent Williams, Past Chair Sunita Gupta, and CEO Karen Cross, forming a powerful delegation to voice the…

The winners of the 2025 Kingston Business Awards, presented by title sponsor MNP LLP and organized by the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce, have been announced. Awards were presented this evening at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. “We are thrilled to honour the exceptional winners of the 2025 Kingston Business Awards-businesses and…

The nominees have been announced for the Kingston Business Awards 2025, presented by title sponsor MNP LLP, partner sponsor Chambers Plan and organized by the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce. Across the ten award categories, there are 47 nominees, including: Hospitality, presented by Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Ltd.: Benjamin Hotels, Chez Piggy Restaurant & Bar, Donald…

Text originally published at: Ontario Chamber of Commerce   Amid recent trade disruptions, Ontario must strengthen its domestic economy by investing in key sectors-especially those often overlooked. A new policy brief from the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) highlights the province’s culture sector (includes the arts and creative industries), as a critical driver of economic…