The LNCC was established in 1965 as a not-for-profit membership-based organization consisting of businesses, professionals, relevant government departments, and community groups. Incorporated in 1986, the Chamber acts as a unified voice for businesses in Central Labrador; enabling its members to accomplish collectively what no one person can easily do individually. As the saying goes, “No man is an island,” and as with any organization, the secret to success is the people involved.
Since incorporation we’ve come far, yes -- but we’ll never forget our roots. We are what we are today due to the unwavering support of our partners and members. With approximately 140 members and growing yearly, the Chamber’s membership is the base upon which every initiative grows.
Taking place annually right here in scenic Happy Valley-Goose Bay at the end of June, Expo Labrador, Labrador’s Resource Conference and Trade Exhibition, continues to attract approximately 400 attendees, 70 trade show exhibits, and many resource-based industry leaders to the region. By showcasing resource development in Labrador, this event continues to strengthen partnerships, economic development and the regional knowledge base in such industry sectors as mining, energy, oil and gas, transportations, tourism, and many others.
In partnership with the Baffin Regional Chamber of Commerce (BRCC), the LNCC held the Northern Lights 2010 Business & Cultural Showcase in Montréal, Québec from January 27-30, 2010. Building upon the first Northern Lights show held in Ottawa in 2008, the event was hugely successful, attracting approximately 140 exhibitors and nearly 900 participants. Northern Lights 2010 also helped to create stronger business relationships and joint partnerships between northern and southern Canadian regions and organizations. Conditions have never been more favorable to explore significant business opportunities with our friends and partners in the North, and in this light, an announcement regarding the next Northern Lights event will be made very soon.
Created by the LNCC in 2003, the grassroots initiative that drives many other LNCC projects is NorthLink. A northern trade development project, NorthLink seeks to further the concerns of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Labrador, the Canadian North and throughout the circumpolar world. As awareness of the economic and strategic importance of Canada’s north increases, the task of ensuring development is undertaken for the benefit of northerners, as well as in a socially and environmentally responsible manner, falls upon organizations like the LNCC. As such, NorthLink seeks out partnerships with other northern chambers, economic development agencies and government departments that share our vision for the future of the north; prosperity for those who call the north home.
Many other initiatives are also taking shape. The LNCC has undertaken preliminary research regarding the development of a new Visitor Information and Business Service Centre for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, with follow up work currently underway. In addition, next year will mark the 25th anniversary of the incorporation of the Chamber, and planning is already underway for an exciting celebration.
What else is going on at the LNCC and in Labrador business? Join us monthly for our new Labradorian column entitled Chamber Chatter, in which the LNCC will profile issues important to the regional business community, keep the public up to speed on LNCC initiatives, and discuss general interest topics that can help you improve your business.
Now deemed the Gateway to the North, Central Labrador is undoubtedly rich in resources and economic potential. As we explore promising and exciting developments such as the Lower Churchill Project, improved transportation linkages and Labrador’s booming mining industry, we realize that we still have so much more to explore. As Newfoundland and Labrador’s former premier Brian Tobin explained during this year’s Expo Labrador Trade Exhibition and Conference, “Now is the time to invest in Labrador.”
As we watch the construction of new buildings and the rapid additions to local subdivisions, this investment in Labrador is hard to ignore. Families are shaping their lives here, and businesses in the province are approaching the Chamber for advice in hopes of relocating to the region.
I’m confident that as in 2010, the coming year will be a period of strength and long-term economic promise for this region. There are more business opportunities in Labrador than ever before, and the LNCC is thrilled to be a part of some of the most exciting initiatives in Canada. We invite you to join the journey.
Sterling Peyton President Labrador North Chamber of Commerce
For more information on LNCC initiatives and membership please contact the Labrador North Chamber of Commerce at (709) 896-8787, admin@chamberlabrador.com , or visit www.chamberlabrador.com.
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