stronger business together
Stronger business together: it’s the creed that drives everything we do. Our Chamber is a voluntary, Member-driven organization of individuals and businesses working together to advance the commercial, financial, and civic interests of our community. Whether we’re pooling resources to offer Member learning opportunities, raising our voices together on a policy issue or facilitating connections between members of our business community, we know that businesses that work together are stronger.
Chamber programs and services are designed around the 3 pillars of our strategic plan:
Lead
Champion Bold Policy Change, Aligning Regional Forces for Collective Prosperity
The Chamber will lead impactful advocacy that shapes policy at all levels of government serving as a trusted convenor across civic, Indigenous and economic development partners to unlock regional potential. With a focus on priorities that improve economic opportunity and quality of life, Thunder Bay will grow as an even more significant hub for Northwestern Ontario.
The Thunder Bay Main lighthouse - an iconic part of our local landscape - represents commitment to illuminating the path forward.
Connect
Deliver and Communicate Member-Centric Value
The Chamber will design programs, events, and outreach that reflect the needs and goals of our diverse membership.
Through storytelling, data, and personalized engagement, we’ll help members feel informed, supported and seen.
The Black Bay Bridge symbolizes connection within our community; linking people, ideas, and values across a distance.
Grow
Accelerate Workforce and Economic Diversification
The Chamber will expand Thunder Bay’s economic future by supporting talent attraction, entrepreneurship, and innovation in both traditional and emerging sectors. With an eye on youth, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and underrepresented groups, we will help build a diverse, future-ready workforce and a more resilient business ecosystem.
The Pine Tree embodies local resilience, renewal, and steady growth reaching upwards and outwards.
Our Vision
By 2030, the Chamber will be Thunder Bay’s forward-looking business champion, fueling bold ideas, influencing policy and leading lasting change.
Our Mission
A trusted advocate, connector and supporter of members of all sizes, together, we position your business for success.
Our Values
We are…
Courageous
We speak up for what matters. When business success, fairness, or future opportunity is at stake, we take bold, principled action – even when it’s difficult.
Innovative
We embrace change and lead by example. By evolving our services and adopting new tools, we help members stay ahead of trends and thrive in a rapidly shifting economy.
Trusted
We are dependable, transparent, and outcome-focused. We say what we’ll do, we do it, and we share results so that members can measure the Chamber’s value.
Connected
We act as a bridge linking business, government, and community. Through strong relationships and collaboration, we create space for shared progress and regional prosperity.
Inclusive
We create a welcoming environment where all members – regardless of business size, stage, sector, or background – feel seen, respected, and valued. We model inclusivity through our own practices, partnerships, and programming.
A Little History
Much like Thunder Bay itself, the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce began as two entities which later joined together. The Port Arthur Board of Trade was established in 1885 and in 1891 the Fort William Chamber of Commerce opened its doors. The two organizations amalgamated in 1965 to become the Lakehead Chamber of Commerce; five years later, in 1970, it was renamed The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce.
The Lakehead Chamber of Commerce, of the Cities of Port Arthur and Fort William were registered with the Department of the Secretary of State of Canada in Ottawa on December 22, 1964 under the Boards of Trade Act, Chapter 18, R.S.C. 1952. The original Certificate of Formation and Memorandum of Agreement is entered on Film 163, Document 231.
The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce was incorporated on August 7, 1979. The Ontario Corporation number is 422405.
Since the inception of the Port Arthur Board of Trade in 1885 and the Fort William Chamber of Commerce in 1891, the individuals who have served as Chair of the Board for the organization have been instrumental in shaping our community and our success as a Chamber. We express our sincere gratitude for their service.
In 2025, the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrates its 140th anniversary. This video takes you on a journey through time, tracing the Chamber’s roots back to the founding of the Port Arthur Board of Trade in 1885. The spirit of resilience and determination that shaped our past continues to light our path into the future.