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President's Message to Our Members

I am reaching out today as we reflect on the impact of our work in the first half of this year and how we might use those insights to inform our priorities for the balance of the year. In doing so, what is top of mind for us is the engagement and support of you, our members.

Thank you for ensuring Ottawa has a strong voice of business . . . Read More.

CALL FOR CEBA LOAN EXTENSION

The Ottawa Board of Trade continues our advocacy to ensure small business survival post pandemic. This week, we joined the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and over 280 industry associations across Canada to sign an open letter to urging the government to extend the CEBA deadline and access to the forgivable portion.

"Ottawa small businesses demonstrated great creativity and resilience during the pandemic. But at great cost. Many were forced to take on copious amounts of debt that have yet to be paid as revenues are not fully rebuilt and additional barriers ensue. We cannot afford any more businesses closures that could be saved with simple policy and program changes. We need these businesses to drive our economic growth. Extending the CEBA deadline will give the small business community the confidence and time they need to move forward in uncertain times."

~ Sueling Ching, President & CEO, Ottawa Board of Trade

READ THE LETTER

Ontario Chamber Network: Employer Sick Note Consultation

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Employment Standards Act allowed employers to require a note from any employees when taking a sick day. The Ontario government introduced a temporary provision during the COVID-19 health crisis which suspended the requirement for employees to provide sick notes when taking a sick leave. This was done to allow an employee showing symptoms of COVID-10 to stay home from work while reducing the chances of spreading inflection to others by attending their doctor’s office. With the COVID-19 pandemic over, the Ontario government is contemplating making this change permanent.

The Ottawa Board of Trade and Ontario Chamber Network is collecting feedback to share with the Employer Commission. Please let us know if you have any concerns if the government proceeds to permanently remove the provision enabling employers to ask for sick notes from employees by

August 2, 2023.

SUBMIT FEEDBACK

The deadline to book your foursome is fast approaching! We hope to see you for a fun-filled day outdoors, connecting with your clients and colleagues and on the greens!

Donate to JA Ottawa for a chance to hole out Professional Long Drivers Ken Long and Mike Zulauf and win a golf trip of a lifetime for two!

KEN LONG

Fastest Ball Speed: 215 mph

Longest Drive: 460 yds

Captain of Team Canada Long Drive

MIKE ZULAUF

Max Ball Speed: 214 mph

Longest Competitive Drive: 397 yds

2021 Canadian National Amateur Long Drive Champion

Promote your business and your brand! Limited Tee Box sponsorship opportunities still available. Please contact Don for more info: Don@ottawabusinessevents.ca

The Ottawa Board of Trade is a proud community partner of the REDBLACKS Summer Rush! Join over 300 guests for an evening of networking, food, football and fun.✨ Expand your network and raise money in of the REDBLACKS Back to School Initiative. Don't wait, grab your tickets today!

Nominate a deserving recipient in your community.

The Order of Ottawa recognizes the professional achievements and outstanding service of exceptional Ottawa residents. This prestigious civic award honours up to 15 of Ottawa’s most deserving individuals each year. Any resident of Ottawa who has made a significant contribution in a professional capacity that has been of benefit to our community may be nominated. Deadline for nominations is September 8, 2023.

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION

Chambers Plan is Canada's #1 Plan!

Talent attraction and retention is critical to business success. Fortunately, OBOT members have a competitive tool. Access to an affordable and accessible health insurance and benefits plan. Alongside standard benefits like dental, health & life insurance, all Chambers Plan programs include value-added services like HR tools, resources, and expert advice.

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