Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) President & CEO, Ian McLean, attended the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM & Convention in Victoria, British Columbia, on October 28-29, 2026, alongside colleagues from the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, including President & CEO Greg Durocher.
The annual event brought together more than 400 delegates representing approximately 117 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade from across the country to explore the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping Canadian business today.
In addition to advocating for local businesses on a national level, the convention provided valuable opportunities for Chamber leaders to discuss emerging business trends, particularly the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and the opportunities it presents for small and medium-sized businesses.
A key announcement was a new national initiative led by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, supported by more than $2.7 million in funding from Google.org, to help over 10,000 Canadian small and medium-sized businesses build the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to put AI to work. Launching in January 2027, the two-year program will provide accessible AI training, workshops and hands-on support through the Canadian Chamber’s national network of Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade.
This initiative recognizes that while AI offers significant opportunities to improve productivity, streamline operations and support business growth, many smaller businesses need greater access to the training and resources required to adopt the technology effectively and responsibly.
Resolution: Increasing Access to Early Learning & Childcare Programs
The Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber, in partnership with the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, was proud to co-sponsor a national policy resolution focused on increasing access to early learning and childcare programs. Access to affordable, reliable childcare continues to be a significant barrier for individuals looking to return to the workforce, particularly women. Limited availability, affordability challenges and gaps in childcare services can prevent qualified individuals from pursuing employment opportunities, advancing their careers and contributing fully to the economy.
With ongoing workforce challenges across Canada, improving access to childcare is an important part of strengthening labour force participation and supporting employers in attracting and retaining talent.
The resolution calls for greater attention to the accessibility of early learning and childcare programs, recognizing the important role that childcare plays in supporting families, workers and Canada’s broader economic growth.
The resolution received an overwhelming 97% support from delegates at the convention, demonstrating strong national recognition of the importance of this issue.
Supporting Canada’s Broader Business Priorities
In addition to co-sponsoring the childcare resolution, the GKWCC supported several other additional policy resolutions addressing a range of issues impacting Canadian businesses and the national economy.
Resolutions focused on artificial intelligence (AI), aerospace, tax reform, infrastructure, agriculture, and other emerging opportunities and challenges facing Canadian industry.
Participating in these discussions and supporting resolutions from Chambers across the country allows the GKWCC to contribute to a broader national business voice and help advance policy priorities that support economic growth, innovation and competitiveness.
What It Means / What Comes Next?
The Canadian Chamber AGM & Convention provides an important opportunity for Chambers of Commerce to come together, share perspectives and influence the national policy agenda. Through collaboration with the Cambridge Chamber and other Chamber partners across Canada, the GKWCC continues to ensure that the concerns and priorities of local businesses are represented at all levels of government.
From advocating for greater access to childcare and a stronger workforce to exploring opportunities in AI and supporting small business innovation, these conversations help shape the future of Canada’s business environment.
Your Chamber continues to advocate for you and your business, working collaboratively at the local, provincial and national levels to ensure that the voice of our business community is heard.
Here are some highlights from the event:
Candance Laing – President & CEO of Canadian Chamber of Commerce with our President & CEO – Ian McLean.
Our President & CEO – Ian Mclean with Brian Rodnick – Communication Specialist, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Greg Durocher – President & CEO of Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Travis Dyk – Chair of Board of Directors – Cambridge Chamber of Commerce & Greg Dunnett, President & CEO – Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.
Greg Durocher – President & CEO of Cambridge Chamber of Commerce with Brian Rodnick – Communication Specialist, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Travis Dyk – Chair of Board of Directors – Cambridge Chamber of Commerce with our President & CEO – Ian McLean.
Our Chamber & The Canadian Chamber of Commerce are supported by great number of businesses.
