News

✨ AGM Recap: A Record-Breaking Night

We were thrilled to host one of the highest-attended AGMs in Chamber history. Held at the beautiful Glass Manor, the evening featured a plated dinner and an opportunity for members to connect, engage, and help shape the future of the Chamber.

We reflected on a strong and successful 2025, highlighted by:

• Growth in new fundraising initiatives
• Strategic investment in technology to streamline operations
• Enhancements focused on improving the member experience

We also officially voted in our new Board of Directors, with positions to be assigned at the first board meeting this week — stay tuned for full introductions.

As we look ahead, we also want to recognize and thank the board members stepping out of their roles:

A special thank you to President Heidi Visser, who has dedicated four years of service and will continue supporting the Chamber as Past President, sharing her knowledge and leadership.

Thank you to Vice President Samantha Valencia for the energy, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas she brought to the role.

And to our outgoing Treasurer, we extend our sincere appreciation for her consistency and contributions to the Chamber’s continued success.

Celebrating Our Members & Sponsors

We extend our sincere thanks to our incredible Chamber Sponsors:
Heidi Visser Real Estate, Cookstown Antique Market, Barrie Drawing & Facepaint, and Tenfoot Studios.

This year, we introduced two new awards to recognize outstanding members of our community:

✨ Rising Star Award
Awarded to a young entrepreneur whose business has flourished since joining the Chamber.
Congratulations to Anna K of Bubbly Bites. - See attached  -  Award presented by VP Samantha Valencia

 Legacy Award
Honouring long-standing contributions to both the Chamber and the community.
Congratulations to Diana and Bill Robinson of Cookstown Antique Market & Robinson Enterprises.  - See attached - Award Presented by Treasurer Lisa Whibley

Giving Back to Our Community

We were proud to present a $1,000 donation to Community 4 Kids, made possible through proceeds from our recent Community Dance.

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported — your participation continues to make a meaningful impact.

Please see attached Notice from InnServices.

Cookstown Water Tower EA - Notice of Study Commencement.pdf

Chamber Members — This One’s For You!

We’re excited to officially introduce The Grand Easter Expo — and YOU are invited to be part of it!

This brand-new community event will bring families together at the Cookstown Manitoba Masonic Lodge on Saturday, April 4th from 10am–1pm for Easter Bunny photos, treats, egg fun, and interactive booths hosted by our incredible local businesses.

✨ Member booth spots are FREE with community engagement
✨ Limited to the first 10 members
✨ Waitlist available

We’d Love Your Feedback

As we continue planning upcoming events and initiatives for the Cookstown & District Chamber, we’d truly value your input. This quick survey will help us better support and promote our members and community. Responses can be anonymous, but you’re welcome to leave your name if you'd like us to follow up. Thank you for helping shape what comes next!

Take the Survey HERE

Join us for our next Member Mingle & Quarterly Meeting in one of Cookstown’s most beautiful local spaces — hosted by Chamber Member Wick'ed Fragrance House.

 

Wick’ed Fragrance House is a proudly local, artisan business dedicated to crafting high-quality, hand-poured candles and home fragrance products. Rooted in creativity and community, this boutique shop has quickly become a standout destination for thoughtfully made, beautifully scented pieces that elevate any space. Supporting businesses like this is exactly what the Chamber is all about — celebrating entrepreneurship, passion, and local impact right here in our community.

What to Expect:

• This evening is your opportunity to:
• Connect and network with fellow Chamber Members
• Catch up with the Board and hear important quarterly updates
• Learn what’s ahead for upcoming events and initiatives
• Experience and support a stunning local business firsthand

There’s something special about gathering in a member’s space — it reminds us why we do what we do. Our Chamber thrives because of businesses like Wick’ed Fragrance House, and we’re excited to spotlight and support her continued growth.

 

Interested in Hosting?

Would you like to host a future Member Mingle? We’d love to hear from you! Hosting is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business, share your story, and create meaningful connections with fellow members in your own space. It’s a relaxed, supportive way to highlight what makes your business unique while strengthening relationships within our Chamber network. Reach out to the Board to learn more about available dates.

We look forward to seeing you for an evening of connection, collaboration, and community.

Be sure to register through the Member Portal to secure your spot.

Community Dance – Sponsors Wanted

February 7

The Community Dance is a Chamber fundraiser, and we’re looking for local businesses to get involved! Sponsorship opportunities include food support, raffle items, spot dance prizes, and larger prize donations. All sponsors receive recognition before and during the event.

Interested in supporting this community favourite?
Login to the Member Portal and complete the Community Dance Sponsorship Form in the Events Section.

✨2026 is just around the corner! ✨
Keep your Chamber membership active by logging into your Member Portal today.

If you haven’t renewed yet, your account will show as Pending. From the portal, you can review your invoice and confirm your details. Don’t forget — this is also a great time to refresh your public profile!

How to Renew:

1. Visit the Profile section of the Member Portal (on the app or website).
   TIP: Use this moment to ensure your business info is up to date — logo, images, website, and social links!

2. View your Invoice.

3. E-transfer your membership fees to treasurer@cookstownchamber.ca.

Once your payment is received, your account will be updated and you’ll be all set for another fantastic year with the Chamber.

Thank you for your continued membership!

Looking Back at 2025 — and Ahead to an Exciting 2026! ✨

What a year 2025 has been for the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce! From new community initiatives to refreshed digital tools, this year marked a huge step forward in how we support and connect with our members. We launched several new programs, introduced an improved member portal, strengthened community partnerships, and expanded opportunities for businesses to shine.

As we head into 2026, the momentum continues! The Member Portal will remain your go-to hub for all Chamber updates — including news, event details, sponsorship opportunities, and important reminders. Make sure to check in often to stay connected.

A few key dates to mark in your calendar:
Community Dance – February 7th
Annual General Meeting – March 30th

We’re excited for another year of growth, collaboration, and community spirit. Thank you for being part of the Chamber — 2026 is shaping up to be our best year yet!

Explore two exciting opportunities this month—fully funded Digital Twin training to boost business innovation, and the 2026 Franchise Canada Show for anyone looking to grow or franchise.

Link here

More Info Here

⚠️ 2026 Chamber Renewals Are Officially Open! ⚠️

It’s that time of year! Get ahead of the rush and renew your 2026 Chamber Membership today to stay connected, visible, and empowered within the Cookstown business community.

Follow the steps below to complete your renewal before the December 31st deadline:

1. Log into your Member Portal on the app or website and head to your Profile section.

2. Look for the bright blue “Renew” button.

3. Review and refresh your Member Profile.
   Pro Tip: This is the perfect moment to make sure your logo, images, website, and social links are up to date!

4. Click “Update & Next,” review your Membership Details, and hit Confirm.

5. View your invoice and E-transfer your membership fees to treasurer@cookstownchamber.ca.

Once your payment is received, your account will be updated — and you’ll be all set for an exciting new year with the Chamber!

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community!