About the Chamber
We work with politicians and senior bureaucrats to bring about change and positively influence issues affecting our community.
The Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization financed through membership investment, events and through a contract to operate the Service Ontario office.
The chamber is “your business network” and works to preserve and further the operation of Greater Sudbury’s businesses based upon individual freedom of choice and personal initiative and responsibility.
Through the participation of its member volunteers on committees and task forces, the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce influences federal, provincial and local legislation affecting over 1,000 business members. It is this grass roots involvement that sets the Chamber apart from many other organizations in representing the business viewpoint.
As members of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, we are part of strong network that provides access to all levels of government.
Our History
The origins of our beginnings can be traced back to the fall of 1895 and the Sudbury Board of Trade when a group of 34 small businesses got together to form an organization that would promote business opportunities in Sudbury, while helping existing businesses and residents deal with issues concerning insurance, railway rates and roads. This organization was known as the Board of Trade of the Town of Sudbury and the Township of McKim. On October 3, 1895, the association was officially incorporated and became known as the Sudbury Board of Trade (SBT). The first president was Frank Cochrane (right), owner of the Cochrane Dunlop Hardware store and one of the most successful politicians in the area.
In 1942, board members voted to rename the SBT to the Sudbury and District Chamber of Commerce. In 1999, the Board again voted to change the name, and this time they added “Greater” to the title.
Over the past 117 years, the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce has been led by 63 community leaders and provided an opportunity for hundreds of dedicated and passionate business leaders to volunteer their skills and experiences on committees, task forces and panels.
From its early beginnings, the concept remains the same: a voluntary organization representing the business community who is dedicated toward improving the progress and prosperity of its members.
Mission
“As the Voice of Business, the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce advocates for business and community prosperity.”
Vision
“The Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce is Greater Sudbury’s leading business organization, providing maximum opportunity to its members by being the driving force behind community growth and economic prosperity.”
Values
Integrity
All decisions have to consistently adhere to our set of values. Have open discussions internal to the board and agree to debate and accept disagreement. Outside of the internal process, we will speak with one voice on behalf of the board
Courage
Take risks. Be innovative with confidence and resolution. Take a strong stand and accept possible consequences.
Trust
Reliance in intention and ability. Board, CEO, staff and membership operate in an environment of mutual reliance and interdependence.
Committed
The state of being bound emotionally and or intellectually to some process and/or course of action.
Broad Thinking
Fairness to members. Our process of consideration is fair. We look at how issues affect the entire community and/or all businesses.