To our community:

My first few months at the Chamber have been highlighted by challenging, inspiring, and thought-provoking conversations with leaders in all industries, and in business, non-profit, and post-secondary sectors. While we’ve all faced major challenges over the past eighteen months, there’s one key theme that binds our community together: optimism.

When I took on this role a few short months ago, I said I believe in this city, and I believe in its potential. It’s become clear to me through my conversations that I am in good company among leaders and entrepreneurs in our community.

At its core, Calgary is a city that is innovative, resilient and collaborative. We know how to work together to tackle important issues and we’re committed to investing in our future. As we go into municipal and federal elections, the Chamber will work collaboratively with our members and stakeholders to secure a promising future for Calgary that is prosperous and inclusive, with a focus on investing in the qualities that make our city a great place to live, work and play.

Our city needs to be that place for everyone. We are aware of the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples as they seek collective action on healing and reconciliation. We are equally mindful of difficulties encountered by racialized and marginalized communities. Now is the time for action, and to chart an inclusive path forward as we move toward economic recovery and growth, that also addresses the challenges faced by those displaced by the dramatic changes in the energy sector. For us, this means investing in our community’s well-being, and ensuring social issues are not separated from economic concerns.

Leading up to the municipal election, we’ve outlined the Pathways to Potential for Calgary’s next City Council as a guide for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous future. We’ve put forward 18 recommendations to attract and retain talent, rebalance and stabilize our property taxes, reimagine our downtown, create an inclusive city, and make it easier to do business in Calgary – all of which our members have told us are top-of-mind.

Federally, together with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, we’ve outlined a bold vision to move Canada From Challenge to Change. Rather than simply recover what was lost through the pandemic, we must develop a path toward a more robust, stable and inclusive economy. We urge the next parliament to focus on economic recovery and diversification, talent, skills, and jobs, environment and climate, taxation and Canada’s finances, and trade at home and around the world.

As we have for 130 years, the Chamber will continue to serve Calgary and our business community. We are committed to being a convenor and a thought leader, bringing together bright minds to develop and advocate for the changes we need to help us reach our potential. I look forward to more conversations with you this fall and know the Chamber will be there every step of the way to help Calgary achieve its full potential.

I encourage you to add your important voice to the conversation by coming to our events, getting in touch directly, and voting in the federal election on September 20th and the municipal election on October 18th.

Sincerely,

Deborah Yedlin

President and CEO, Calgary Chamber of Commerce