Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Dear Members and Representatives,
As I wrap up my first year as President of the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made. Both as an organization and as a champion for Barrie’s business community.
When the pandemic hit, the Chamber stepped up to help our members navigate some of the toughest times in recent memory. We provided thousands of COVID screening kits at no cost. We kept pace with daily, sometimes hourly, updates on community health, financial aid and business programs. We focused on what mattered most to you, offering guidance and insight that helped local businesses stay informed and resilient. That period didn’t just test us, it changed us.
Are you ready to engage and advocate for Barrie?
Your completed nomination form must be submitted to the Barrie Chamber office
by 5:00PM, Monday, May 26, 2025.
Now we’re entering a new chapter. One where we’re advocating for local business with more strength and clarity than ever. Our voice is louder, our reach is broader and our focus is sharp.
Membership is growing. Engagement is stronger than it’s ever been. Our partnerships now stretch across the region. We are active at every level of government, working to make sure Barrie’s business community is heard when decisions are being made.
Our reach has also expanded within the Ontario Chamber of Commerce where we continue to represent Barrie’s priorities on a larger stage. Most recently, we’ve taken a bold step beyond our borders by launching a new partnership in the UK that opens up exciting opportunities for local business owners. Bringing expert recommendations within reach of our membership.
We’re seeing that momentum in our leadership as well. Our Board of Directors has grown alongside the city, with a clear focus on representing the people and industries that define Barrie today. This kind of representation matters because it shapes both how we advocate and who we advocate for.
As Barrie continues to grow, the Chamber needs strong voices at the table. We are looking for passionate forward-thinking people to join our Board of Directors. Leaders who understand our business landscape and care deeply about the community we serve.
We are looking to add the following skillsets to our Board:
- Leadership
- Governance
- Community building
- Strategy & business development
- Public policy development
- Human resources
- Legal
- Urban planning and development
You will find everything you need to know about the nomination process here:
Call for Board Nominations – Barrie Chamber of Commerce
If you’ve been waiting for a way to make a bigger impact, this is it. Help us write the next part of our story built on purpose, action and the voices of local business.
Sincerely,
Salim Bardai, President
Barrie Chamber of Commerce