Our purpose is to drive economic prosperity by empowering and supporting our members
Chamber Story
OUR STORY
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.
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.
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.