The MISSION of the Board of Trade is to create prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, and leadership. We do this by representing the interests of the businesses, all sectors, and sizes of business. We work with local, provincial, and national and international business and community leaders. And we based our work on the values of inclusion, innovation, and integrity.
The one thing that is not widely understood is HOW we do this work. As a non-profit, non-partisan, independent organization, we must be savvy in how we use our resources to create the greatest impact. In any climate, with evolving priorities and opportunities, our one indispensable and key asset never changes. Our volunteers.
The work of the Board of Trade only moves forward, benefiting the entire community because of the business and community leaders who dedicate their energy, insights, and time to our collective economic growth. They do this largely through our committee and council structure which allows us to align expertise and interests with our strategy in the most effective way.
We have several committees focused on policy, economic growth, supporting business, and governing the board. Some ad hoc committees are also formed for emerging issues and opportunities. This work gives business members a chance to contribute and grow while ensuring the success of an organization that exists solely for the purpose of creating an environment in which business can thrive.
The advantage of being member-driven and led is that we can rapidly adapt and access those in the know; business owners, managers, and those most in tune with our business community. Committee mandates, members, and action plans can be found on the OBOT website; however, we would like to highlight three key ones working hard in the current climate.
CEO Council: Our mandate is to develop government recommendations and create tactical solutions to help businesses in Ottawa counter the impact of COVID-19 (SURVIVE) and design a rapid recovery (THRIVE). Our three objectives are: a) advocacy, b) solutions for the business community and
c) support of the community. Our primary focus is to represent the perspective of large business and ensure the successful rebound of the economy.
SME Council: Our mandate is to lead, create, and enhance initiatives that support start-up, small and medium enterprises to scale, strengthen, and identify new opportunities. This typically includes information, education, and recognition programs in addition to identifying key advocacy issues. Recently the committee has ramped up to address the evolving issues and opportunities presented by COVID-19 and have created two focuses; what needs to be done to support SMEs NOW and NEXT.
Talent Committee: Our mandate is to design and promote strategies that provide the local private sector with the information, access, and support required to attract, retain, and develop top talent. We work closely with key stakeholders and host and support programs that support sector-specific issues.
Many of our volunteers have declared they have received great value and made many connections from participating in our committees. If you have a desire to contribute to the ongoing advocacy and program work of the Board of Trade, contact our membership lead, Lynn Ladd at lynn.ladd@ottawabot.ca.
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