President's Message
Tracy Gromniski
The past year holds many reasons for the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce to celebrate. A heightened level of engagement from our business community has been evident through attendance at our events. Likewise, we have experienced an increased interest and participation in various committees and stakeholder groups, as well as in our Board of Directors and staffing. These groups contribute to the success of our events, programming, and help shape the future direction of our organization. Engagement from beyond the borders of our community is also growing. Various leaders and decision-makers are demonstrating interest in what is happening in the Steinbach region and we are being asked more frequently to provide valuable input. This engagement is the result of hard work and dedication to the Chamber’s vision of “Leading Growth and Connecting People.”
2023 also marked the Steinbach Chamber’s inaugural event, Taste of Steinbach. This impressive event was a resounding success, bringing together a celebration of local food and local business, all while showcasing our community and creating a space for local connection and camaraderie. It was a truly remarkable experience and people spoke about it for weeks.
Our recent visit with Premier Heather Stefanson was another highlight. This meeting was the result of intentional efforts by Chamber board and staff to connect with decision-makers, leaders and influencers both in and outside of our community. This past year, the Chamber’s leadership participated in discussions on economic development, immigration, tourism, and doctor recruitment, to name a few. We are grateful for these opportunities and glad to have a seat at the table representing our community’s interests and to bring other community leaders alongside in those discussions.
Focusing on the services of Eastman Immigrant Services (EIS), we have watched as our community grows more and more diverse. We continue to see many newcomers from outside of Canada choosing Steinbach as their home. This past year, the largest number of newcomers served by our office were from Ukraine, Philippines, Mexico, and India. With immigration comes the increased demand for English language training, employment services, and settlement services for families. Some of these newcomers are establishing businesses in our community, contributing to job creation in the region. Others are helping to expand the labor force, which also supports our local economy. We are immensely proud of the success of Eastman Immigrant Services and we are committed to ensuring that newcomers continue to be welcomed and well-served as they make Steinbach and area their home. We all play a role in making Steinbach and region a welcoming place to live and work. We truly are “Better Together.”
Supporting economic development for the city of Steinbach and the region continues to be a significant priority for the Chamber. The establishment of the Steinbach Economic Development Corporation (SED) is an example of the Chamber’s commitment to “Leading Growth” and ensuring that the program is sustainable into the future.
As we look ahead, we know that much effort will be put into managing our growth and change as an organization. Sustained effort allows us to build off the strengths of our programming and the natural synergies that connect the Chamber, EIS, and economic development programs – three pillars that together will contribute to the continued growth of the community and ultimately improve the quality of life for all residents.
Thank you, sincerely, to our Chamber membership, our staff, board, and committee members for all the unseen work that you do. It is valued and you are appreciated. Thank you also to the City of Steinbach and the stakeholders and partners of the Chamber, EIS and SED who continue to encourage and support our efforts to Lead Growth, Connect People.
– Tracy Gromniski, President
Chamber Team
The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce unites and represents Steinbach and area businesses, in the belief that the resulting economic growth and stability provides an enhanced quality of life for the entire community.
Executive Committee
The mandate of the Executive Committee is to oversee all Chamber functions, programs, committees, and staff. This committee will recommend a strategic direction and assess annual achievements.
They will monitor the achievement of the financial goals and ensure prudent financial practices are being followed. They will provide an advocacy role to represent members on current issues and employment legislation that affect business and workforce needs and will lobby local, provincial and federal governments.
This committee will build and develop an effective, knowledgeable Board of Directors, identifying required knowledge, skills and experiences. They will strive for diversity of board members, and continuity through a smooth succession of board members that balances new ideas and energy with experience and ‘institutional memory’.
Community Relations Committee
The mandate of the Community Relations Committee is to bring business and the community together. This committee will coordinate various community events and will participate in community initiatives.
They will work to ensure the community is aware of the Chamber’s projects and activities, and in doing so, promote the values and work of the organization. They will look for ways to support and celebrate the work of our many local not-for-profit organizations and will support tourism in our area.
Membership Services Committee
The mandate of the Membership Services Committee is to develop and implement effective marketing, mentoring, and membership programs to achieve Chamber retention and recruitment objectives.
This committee will actively pursue new memberships and retain existing memberships through the provision of value to all members and will identify and respond to the changing needs of the membership. These committee members will be Chamber ambassadors in the business community.
Business Development Committee
The mandate of the Business Development Committee is to promote and support growth and development of business in the community.
This committee will create a learning environment and share information with members through special events, expert speakers, and workshops regarding employment, labour and job creation, workplace legislation and best HR practices, always attempting to help our members improve their knowledge base and develop new skills to strengthen their business. This committee will oversee the Eastman Immigrant Services program and the English at Work program, and ensure they stay vibrant and relevant.
Past Presidents Council
Every fall, the Chamber hosts a Past Presidents Council to thank former Chamber presidents for their involvement and commitment to our business community.
This event serves to keep these individuals updated on the Chamber’s current activities and future goals, while also providing an opportunity to gain valuable feedback from them.
