2025 was a year of real momentum for the Atlantic Chamber. On behalf of the ACC Board of Directors, I’m proud to share that we completed Year One of our strategic plan. This is a plan the Board truly owns, and it is already delivering meaningful results for our valued members.

Together, we made our voice count through impactful advocacy on the issues that matter most to Atlantic businesses, including immigration, trade, and fiscal policy. We also strengthened our connection with members by listening first. Members of the Board reached out directly to the Boards of Chambers across our network, and those conversations are helping guide our priorities and actions. We expanded our reach as well through new partnerships, including our collaboration with the Atlantica Centre for Energy.

As a Board, we remained focused on building a strong, sustainable organization - delivering balanced budgets, investing in board training, and ensuring the ACC is well positioned for the future.

Our events this year reflected the depth and relevance of the conversations we aim to lead. We welcomed Gerry Protti, Chair of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, for a thoughtful discussion on Canada’s business environment, and heard a candid and compelling perspective from Don Mills on Atlantic Canada’s economic future and his book, Toward Prosperity. These discussions reinforced the Chamber’s role as a trusted forum for business leadership.

Thank you for your engagement, your trust, and your confidence in the Atlantic Chamber. On behalf of the Board, I’m excited about what we are building together.

Margo Soucy

Chair

As I reflect on the past year, I’m humbled by the passion, leadership, and commitment each of you bring to the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce. You are the backbone of our network: innovators, employers, community builders, and champions for a stronger Atlantic Canadian economy. Together, we are shaping the future of our region in meaningful and measurable ways.

Thanks to your engagement and collaboration, we’ve advanced key initiatives that matter deeply to our members and communities:

• United for Population Growth & Workforce Strength
We championed a Population Growth & Workforce Strategy focused on retaining graduates, attracting newcomers, and strengthening workforce development across Atlantic Canada.

• Amplified Business Voices to Government
Through coordinated advocacy, policy submissions, and direct engagement, we ensured Atlantic business priorities were heard by government.

• Policy Leadership and National Impact
Our policy resolutions were successfully advanced through the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, influencing national discussions on trade, workforce development, innovation, and fiscal responsibility.

• Member-Driven Programs and Resources
We expanded governance training, strategic planning support, and market entry initiatives to help businesses grow, adapt, and compete.

• Stronger Networks Across the Region
Through our conference and AGM, PACs, and collaborative forums, we strengthened connections and ensured member voices guide our work.

None of these accomplishments would be possible without you. Your engagement, insight, and leadership are what make this Chamber strong and credible. You are not just members, you are partners in building a resilient, thriving Atlantic Canada.

As we look ahead, I am confident in our collective ability to seize new opportunities and overcome challenges together. Thank you for your trust, your leadership, and your continued commitment to our shared future.

With gratitude and determination,

Rhonda Tulk-Lane
President & CEO
 

Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada (CCEC) 

Staff Person of the Year

Chelsea Barnhill-Weatherbee, Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce, NS (right)

• Large chambers (1000+) Morgan Peters, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, NB (middle)
• Medium Chambers (500-999) Ann Marie Boudreau, St. John’s Board of Trade, NL (left)

Previous winners here

Accreditation Recognition

• Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton 
• Sussex and District Chamber of Commerce

To learn more here

Accredited Chamber Executive designation is a national recognition that acknowledges the experience, knowledge, and achievements of professionals within the chamber of commerce sector.
 

Tracy Beaver continues to serve on the Board of Directors for the CCEC

The ACC is the Atlantic voice representing businesses across the four Atlantic provinces, we amplify the collective voice of our members and drive policy change. Together, we ensure that the interests of our business community are heard and prioritized, paving the way for growth, innovation, and opportunity throughout the region.

What has the ACC network accomplished?

1. Provincial Pre-Budget Submissions
   1. Nova Scotia
   2. PEI 
2. Hill Day 2025
3. B7
4. Hosted Federal Minister of Immigration
5. Letter to Federal Minister of Immigration 
6. New England Governors Reception
7. 2 Pre-Budget Submissions
8. Chambers of the Federation meeting with Premier Ford and Premier Houston
9. National Policy Resolutions
10. Create Provincial Elections Toolkit
11. Met with Premier Lantz, PEI
12. Met with Premier Holt, NB
13. Met with Commissioner for Employers, Nancy Healey
14. Hosted Premier Wakeham when he was leader of the opposition

What has the ACC accomplished?

1. 52 Newsletters
2. X Op-eds
3. X Interviews

Diversity and inclusion is valued at the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce, driving innovation, fostering equitable opportunities, and strengthening economic growth across the Atlantic provinces. By advocating for inclusive practices, we empower businesses and communities to thrive, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and valued in building a prosperous, united future.

What has the ACC network accomplished?

• Staff completed cultural awareness training with The Creative Hub
• Board of Directors attended a session on cultural awareness for boards with the Creative Hub
• Conference example with artist

The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce values financial stewardship and maintaining a well-ordered financial framework, recognizing that sound fiscal management is the foundation of long-term success and stability. Just as businesses must responsibly manage their resources to thrive, we advocate for governments to uphold the same principles. A fiscally disciplined approach ensures sustainability, fosters growth, and builds trust—essential elements for a prosperous community and robust economy. By championing these values, we aim to inspire accountability and promote a future where both private and public sectors thrive together.

What has the ACC network accomplished?

What has the ACC accomplished?

• 11 All Chamber Meetings
• Annual Conference 
• Free Trade Tuesdays
• Canada Infrastructure Bank

What has the ACC accomplished?

1. 13 new businesses signed up for the Market Entry Development Program & 5 businesses graduated. Learn more click here
2. Ask ACC

What has the ACC Accomplished?

• 2 Chamber Plan board meetings
• Sharing infromation with members
• Continuous contact with Chamber Plan rep Scott McCammon
• Met with Blair Corey, plan administrator for Atlantic Canada

A Heartfelt Farewell & Warm Welcome

On behalf of the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce, we want to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Scott McCammon for his dedication, leadership, and partnership as our Chamber Plan representative. Scott has been a trusted advisor, a steady champion for chambers, and a true friend to our network. His support has strengthened our work and helped us deliver real value to our members across Atlantic Canada. We are deeply grateful for everything he has contributed, and we wish him all the very best in his next chapter.

At the same time, we are delighted to welcome Keitha Robson as our new representative. From Timmins but with strong roots and deep connections to Atlantic Canada, Keitha brings energy, experience, and a genuine passion for supporting chambers and the business community. We look forward to working with her and continuing to build on the strong foundation Scott helped create.

Please join us in thanking Scott for his tremendous service and in welcoming Keitha to the Atlantic Chamber family. We are excited for the road ahead.