When one Chamber closes, another opens

Lisha Van Nieuwenhove

Five days after the Uxbridge Chamber of Commerce announced on Facebook that it was “permanently closed,” the Scugog Chamber of Commerce announced the unveiling of the North Durham Chamber of Commerce.

On April 19, the Uxbridge Chamber of Commerce posted “Announcement – as of April 19, 2024, UXCC is permanently closed. Thank you so much for your past membership and sponsorship. We wish all businesses much success on your journey. Thank you, UXCC Team.” No further explanation for the seemingly sudden announcement was made.

On April 25, the Scugog Chamber of Commerce issued a press release that stated it was “excited to embark on a new transformative journey. With a steadfast dedication to progress and collaboration, we proudly introduce the North Durham Chamber of Commerce.”

The release outlined that the North Durham Chamber of Commerce intends to bring businesses, professionals and community leaders from the townships of Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge to “create a powerful force for positive economic change.”

“This natural evolution of the chamber provides a regional perspective while encouraging each municipality to continue developing unique events that nurture their local strengths. Together, we can address common challenges, seize shared opportunities, and build a thriving business ecosystem that benefits us all,” says the release.

The move to the creation of one Chamber of Commerce that covers all of north Durham was spearheaded by the Scugog Chamber of Commerce, which reached out to both the Township of Uxbridge and the Brock Board of Trade.

Karey Anne Large, executive director for the Scugog Chamber of Commerce, explains that, through collaboration, the new Chamber sees itself “forging stronger connections, empowering businesses, and creating new opportunities across our vibrant communities. Together, we'll continue to thrive, innovate, and champion the economic growth of North Durham. We look forward to having businesses join the North Durham Chamber of Commerce.”

The North Durham Chamber of Commerce says that it believes the three townships will be stronger together than they are apart, and that this “natural evolution” of the chamber provides a regional perspective while encouraging each municipality to continue developing unique events that nurture local strengths.

The release says that members of the North Durham Chamber of Commerce can expect a wide range of enhanced services and supports that are tailored to the “unique needs of our business community.” Support services will include access to the Chambers Plan, an employee benefits plan for small businesses that was available through the Uxbridge Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, the North Durham Chamber of Commerce says it will offer a wide spectrum of resources and initiatives, including networking events, educational programs, advocacy campaigns, and a wealth of accessible resources, and that its commitment is to “furnish members with the necessary tools and assistance vital for their sustained success and growth.”

The new Chamber says it recognizes the need for innovation in North Durham. With a focus on improved broadband connectivity, infrastructure delivery and quality of life, the new chamber says it can “attract the next generation of employers that will help to create jobs, drive economic prosperity, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the region.”

Uxbridge Mayor Dave Barton says that he is “delighted to see the launch of the North Durham Chamber of Commerce, which symbolizes North Durham’s dedication to cooperation and advancement. This unification of our townships strengthens our shared voice, improves services, and fosters an innovative economic environment that enriches both our citizens and businesses.”

A little-publicized “Uxbridge Business Info Night” was held Tuesday evening at the Second Wedge Brewing Co., to offer more details about the new Chamber of Commerce, its vision and services.