The Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce held its annual general meeting March 25, bringing forth ideas to help nurture local businesses in the upcoming year.
Financially, the chamber is holding steady, bringing in a surplus of $21,032 in 2013, said president Bill Popplewell. He added that much of that money is being reinvested back into Cochrane’s small businesses and business owners.
“Most of our revenue is being spent to support the trade fair,” remarked Popplewell. “In turn, that supports our community and, ultimately, our membership.”
The Cochrane Trade Show is set to run May 3-4. Popplewell anticipates the event will draw about 135 exhibitors.
This year, the chamber is focused on growing its membership, which currently hovers around the 240 mark. That number is up slightly from 2013’s membership of about 230.
“We always have room for more growth,” said Popplewell. “We need to make sure our members are being promoted. We’re working to increase the visibility of Cochrane’s small businesses through events, networking and education.”
He added the board is looking at revamping the Chamber’s Lunch and Learn series — brief sessions that educate on a number of business-related topics. Popplewell said the chamber is exploring the possibility of moving the series to a local restaurant or switching up the typical lunchtime time slot.
Last year, the chamber resurrected its annual golf tournament and threw a Christmas party for its members. Popplewell said events like these are two-fold: it helps grow chamber membership, and provides a forum for local proprietors to meet.
“These are the events we need to focus on,” he said. “They’re fun, businesses can put their membership to use, and owners can meet and talk with each other.”
Currently, there are two vacancies on the board of directors for those interested in volunteering.
Visit cochranechamber.ca for more.
