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Newmarket chamber recognized with national inclusive growth award

The local business organization is being honoured with the prestigious new award from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce for 'outstanding efforts to advance economic reconciliation and foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility'
NewmarketToday Staff

The Newmarket Chamber of Commerce is being recognized with a national award for its "outstanding efforts to advance economic reconciliation and foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the Canadian business landscape."

The local business organization is one of three chambers being honoured with the prestigious new Inclusive Growth Award from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

“We’re grateful for the recognition from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce," said Chris Emanuel, president and CEO of the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce, in a chamber news release. “A thriving business community is one where everyone has opportunity to succeed. As a united business community, we can make a positive and lasting difference. We truly are stronger together.”

The Newmarket chamber was recognized alongside the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce at the Canadian chamber’s 2023 AGM and convention in Calgary Oct. 12 to 14.

The chamber stated it has actively sought out ways to better align itself with an equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging framework, including:

  • The creation of Accelerate Newmarket, which supports start-ups and emerging businesses, in partnership with Treefrog Inc. and York University, Schulich School of Business. The target of 50 per cent of participants coming from traditionally underrepresented groups has been exceeded by 20 per cent. To date, the 300 participating businesses have raised in excess of $30 million in capital.
  • The Women in Leadership Development (W.I.L.D.) Mastermind in partnership with Scotiabank and The MARC Group. Currently, there are two cohorts underway; each six-part group consists of foundational information to support and strengthen women leaders and female-led companies.
  • Building a DEI component into the Newmarket chamber’s Business Excellence Awards. Along with a separate DEI award, a new aspect for all categories has been introduce, with consideration given to an organization’s/individual’s efforts to support leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion.