BBOT Policy Wins at the BC Chamber of Commerce AGM
Last week, the Burnaby Board of Trade proudly represented Burnaby’s business community at the BC Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting in Nanaimo. BBOT CEO Angie Whitfield, Chair Dana Martin, and Past Chair Raj Sharma joined chamber leaders from across the province to vote on the most pressing issues facing businesses in B.C.
We’re excited to share that all three policy resolutions submitted by the BBOT, developed in collaboration with key partners, were approved and will now become part of the BC Chamber’s official advocacy agenda. These wins reflect our commitment to ensuring the unique needs of Burnaby businesses, whether they’re small, growing, or global, are not only heard but also acted upon.
Strengthening British Columbia’s Backbone: Ensuring Robust Support for Small Businesses
The sudden closure of Small Business BC in December 2024 left a major gap in resources for entrepreneurs. With 98% of B.C. businesses classified as small, this is a serious concern. The BBOT’s policy recommends leveraging chambers of commerce, which are already trusted community partners, to deliver mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. We also called for increased access to funding, better governance of support programs, and new training opportunities in digital literacy, finance, and strategic planning. These measures are crucial for helping Burnaby’s small businesses grow, adapt, and succeed.
Federal Immigration Policy Changes and Their Impacts on Canada’s Workforce and Post-Secondary Institutions
Jointly submitted with the Surrey Board of Trade, this resolution addresses the negative impacts of recent federal immigration changes, particularly on international students and graduate-level talent. These reforms risk weakening Canada’s workforce pipeline, undermining post-secondary competitiveness, and damaging our international reputation. We’re calling on the federal government to take a coordinated, long-term approach—expanding post-graduate work permit eligibility and ensuring immigration policies reflect regional labour needs. For Burnaby, home to SFU and a growing innovation economy, this policy directly supports talent retention and economic development.
A Sustainable Approach for Transit and Major Road Funding in BC
In partnership with the Richmond Chamber of Commerce and supported by the Tri-Cities Chamber, the BBOT championed a forward-thinking approach to funding B.C.’s transportation systems. The current patchwork of gas taxes, property taxes, and transit fares is no longer sustainable. Our resolution calls on the provincial government to begin phasing out gas taxes, implement ICBC-based vehicle levies, and allow transit authorities to align fare increases with inflation. These changes are vital to improving infrastructure, reducing congestion, meeting climate goals, and ultimately, keeping people and goods moving efficiently across the region.
What Happens Next
Now that these policies have been adopted into the BC Chamber’s advocacy agenda, they will shape future lobbying efforts and government consultations at both the provincial and federal levels. The BBOT will remain closely involved, continuing to push for progress and ensuring Burnaby’s voice remains at the forefront in policy conversations.
Your Voice Matters
These wins are a direct result of businesses telling us what matters most and trusting us to advocate on their behalf. That’s why it’s so important for BBOT members to continue sharing their challenges, priorities, and ideas with us. The more we hear from you, the stronger our voice becomes at the tables where decisions are made. Let’s keep working together to build a business environment where Burnaby companies can thrive.