PURPOSE - Microsoft...Excellence Summit 24 Sponsorship Opportunities 25 Corporate Members 26...

FOCUS

PURPOSE

20192019ANNUAL REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

01 01 Message from the Chair

0202 Alberta Chambers of Commerce Organizational Chart

0404 Chamber Members

0606 81st Provincial Conference & Policy Session

0808 Canadian Chamber of Commerce

0909 Roundtables

1010 Chamber of the Year Awards

1212 Political Action Day and MLA Dinner

1414 Fall Board Meeting and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner

1616 Policy Committee

1717 Advocacy

1818 2019 Alberta Business Awards of Distinction

2121 Alberta Chamber Executives (ACE)

2222 2019 ACC Disney Excellence Summit

2424 Sponsorship Opportunities

2525 Corporate Members

2626 Value-Added Programs

2828 Management’s Discussion & Analysis

3434 Independent Auditor’s Report

1808, 10025 - 102A AVENUEEDMONTON, AB T5J 2Z2PHONE: 780-425-4180TOLL-FREE: 1-800-272-8854

www.abchamber.cawww.albertaperspectives.cawww.abbusinessawards.com

facebook.com/ABChambersofCommerce

twitter.com/albertachambers

http://www.abchamber.ca

http://www.albertaperspectives.ca

http://www.abchamber.ca/pages/Vision2020

http://www.abbusinessawards.com

https://www.facebook.com/ABChambersofCommerce

https://twitter.com/albertachambers?ref_src=twsrc%5Eappleosx%7Ctwcamp%5Esafari%7Ctwgr%5Esearch

ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ANNUAL REPORT 2019 | 1

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

2019 was a significant year for the Alberta Chambers of Commerce

network. The year included elections at both the provincial and

national levels, presenting new opportunities to advocate on behalf

of Alberta job creators. In the leadup to the provincial election, our

network launched Vote Prosperity—a platform of business priorities

that would later be replicated at the national level. The initiative was

both timely and effective, with the new Alberta government acting

on 14 out of 17 of our network’s recommendations.

Speaking of advocacy, our network also launched Alberta

Perspectives—a major market research initiative. We surveyed

members of the business community and public alike on priorities

for the province before asking businesses about the red tape

barriers they face—providing our network with high-quality,

statistically relevant data to inform our advocacy.

2019 was also a major year for events. Only ten weeks after the

provincial election, we held our first Political Action Day and

MLA Dinner with the new Alberta government. We were thrilled

to welcome record numbers of MLAs, business leaders, and

community chamber representatives. In the fall, we held our

annual Fall Board Meeting and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner, where

we welcomed 26 senior public servants and representatives of 23

community chambers. We were also pleased to add new categories

to our annual business excellence awards and receive record

award submissions—honouring even more business leaders making

significant contributions to their communities.

None of these milestones would be possible without the dedication

and tireless advocacy of community chamber representatives and

volunteers throughout the province. The ACC’s strength as both a

provincial and national player is truly within our network. Despite

this year’s successes, there are—as always—challenges ahead. At

the time of writing, our business community is currently facing the

global COVID-19 pandemic and record low oil prices—harming job

creators and hard-working Albertans alike. While these conditions

will have a significant and lasting impact on our provincial economy,

I know our network will respond with the same purpose and focus

that we saw in 2019.

Shawna MillerCHAIR, Alberta Chambers of Commerce

2 | ANNUAL REPORT 2019 ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

ALB

ERTA

CH

AM

BER

S O

F C

OM

MER

CE

BO

AR

D O

F D

IREC

TOR

S

EXEC

UTI

VE

CO

MM

ITTE

E(S

TR

AT

EG

IC O

PE

RA

TIO

NS

)

SHAWNA MILLER

CHAIR

ROSETTA TAYLOR

CHAIR ELECT

BRUCE GALTS

FIRST VICE CHAIR

AARON FLEMING

SECOND VICE CHAIR

JODIE MCFADZEN

TREASURER

SHAUNA FETH

PAST CHAIR

The Executive Committee is formed from leading chamber volunteers from around Alberta. This year’s Executive Committee members are based in Grande Prairie, Spruce Grove, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, St. Albert and Camrose.


STA

FF

KEN KOBLYPRESIDENT & CEO

JASON LESLIECOMMUNICATIONS & POLICY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

HEATHER CLIFFORDPUBLIC RELATIONS & POLICY COORDINATOR

TRACY ACORNCHAMBER SERVICES & ADMIN MANAGER

TBDCHAMBER SERVICES & ADMIN COORDINATOR

JILLIAN MCGUIREEVENTS & CORPORATE SERVICES MANAGER

ZOË LEPARQUEEVENT MARKETING & CORPORATE RELATIONS COORDINATOR


Edmonton

Red Deer

Calgary

Lethbridge

Medicine Hat

Grand Prairie

Fort McMurray

63

63

88

58

58

88

88

35

35

35

64

02

02

02

02

55

02

02

21

21

21

21

56

56

53

5353

20

56

02A

01A

12X

02

22

22

22

54

22

22

23

24

22

25

36

36

36

27

27

09

09

61

03

03

04

62

0303

03

05

02

02

06

01

01

01

01

23

07

01

40

08

09

0972

09

1001

33

3332

32

1616 16

16

16

16

36

36

36

36

15

45

4545

28

28

41

41

41

55

55

36

63

02

18

63

44

44

3343

43

28

02

49

49

49

43

4359

40

40

47

93

11

11

12

11

12

12

12

13

1313

14

14

39

26

14

12

41

41

41

41

48

62

55

73

845310

45

95

50

58

60

42 44 119

38

18

12

88

64

11

15

03

34

103

91

0693

86

1084094

23

106 81

37

24

11254

390932

31

01

27

20

17

3680

66

57

79

25

47

33

87

22

7190

69 26

46

14

77

85

109

118

10525

19

59

02

05121

110

68 92

98

116

113

6607

21

61

29

89

83

30

120

11774 70

75

43

65

102

72

13

63

16

04

28

49

9641

35

111

67

78

101

100104

99

51

82

0852

76

56

97

114

107

122

115


01 Airdrie

02 Alberta Beach

03 Alix

04 Athabasca

05 Barrhead

06 Bashaw

07 Beaumont

08 Beaverlodge

09 Beiseker

10 Berwyn

11 Blackfalds

12 Bluffton

13 Bonnyville

14 Bow Island/Burdett

15 Bow Valley

16 Boyle

17 Bragg Creek

18 Breton

19 Brooks

20 Calgary

21 Camrose

22 Cardston

23 Caroline

24 Carstairs

25 Chestermere

26 Claresholm

27 Coaldale

28 Cochrane

29 Cold Lake

30 Consort

31 Cremona

32 Crossfield

33 Crowsnest Pass

34 Delburne

35 Devon

36 Diamond Valley

37 Didsbury

38 Drayton Valley

39 Drumheller

40 Eckville

41 Edmonton

42 Edson

43 Elk Point

44 Evansburg/Entwistle

45 Fairview

46 Foremost

47 Fort Macleod

48 Fort McMurray

49 Fort Saskatchewan

50 Fox Creek

51 Grande Cache

52 Grande Prairie

53 Grimshaw

54 Hanna

55 High Level

56 High Prairie

57 High River

58 Hinton

59 Innisfail

60 Jasper Park

61 Killam

62 La Crete

63 Lac La Biche

64 Lacombe

65 Lamont

66 Langdon & District

67 Leduc Regional

68 Legal

69 Lethbridge

70 Lloydminster

71 Magrath

72 Mallaig

73 Manning

74 Mannville

75 Marwayne

76 McLennan

77 Medicine Hat

78 Morinville

79 Nanton

80 Okotoks

81 Olds

82 Onoway

83 Oyen

84 Peace River

85 Picture Butte

86 Pigeon Lake

87 Pincher Creek

88 Ponoka

89 Provost

90 Raymond

91 Red Deer

92 Redwater

93 Rimbey

94 Rocky Mountain House

95 Sexsmith

96 Sherwood Park

97 Slave Lake

98 Smoky Lake

99 Smoky River

100 Spruce Grove

101 St. Albert

102 St. Paul

103 Stettler Board of Trade

104 Stony Plain

105 Strathmore

106 Sundre

107 Swan Hills

108 Sylvan Lake

109 Taber

110 Thorhild

111 Thorsby

112 Three Hills

113 Tofield

114 Valleyview

115 Vauxhall & District

116 Vegreville

117 Vermilion

118 Vulcan

119 Wabamun

120 Wainwright

121 Westlock

122 Whitecourt

Honorary Lifetime Membership Ron Chapman

CHAMBER MEMBERS


81ST PROVINCIAL CONFERENCE & POLICY SESSION

Every year, members of our federation gather in a different Alberta community for three days of meetings, learning, and networking.

Highlights of the 2019 Provincial Conference in Camrose included:

• 90 delegates attended representing 37 chambers

• A total of 144 guests participated throughout the weekend

• As part of the Friday activities, guests toured Vermeer’s Dairy, the Camrose County Conservation Area, and the Cargill Canola Crush Plant

• The Camrose Chamber hosted us for an exclusive fun night at the Camrose Regional Exhibition, including games, dinner, and live entertainment

• Delegates at the policy session debated and approved all policies

• We welcomed Shawna Miller of Grande Prairie as incoming Chair

• We said farewell to Chris Dugan of Sherwood Park, who stepped off the Executive Committee

CAMROSE

Sharon Anderson, Executive Director & Chuck Erman, President – Camrose & District Chamber of Commerce.

Policy Showdown participants, Brent (Francis) vs. Rainer (Koscis) of Edmonton Chamber of Commerce with ACC President, Ken Kobly.

Fun Night: Nice Horse & Chuck Erman- President, Camrose & District Chamber of Commerce


ACC 2018/2019 Executive Committee

Shauna Feth, Outgoing ACC Chair, 2019/2020. Past Chairs Forum: Carman McNary, Brad Severin, Sean Ballard.

Shawna Miller is declared Chair for 2019/2020.TAP Presentation: John Gerum, Export Training Program Manager, Enterprise Edmonton.

Her Honour, the Honourable Lois E. Mitchel, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

Writer/Researcher Vivian Krause.RBC’s Chief Economist Dawn Desjardin.


CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCESAINT JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK

Alberta business was well represented during the 100th Canadian Chamber of Commerce annual conference, hosted September 21-23 in Saint John, New Brunswick. The Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce hosted the gathering in celebration of its 200th anniversary. Premier Jason Kenney joined 91 Alberta delegates to promote Canada’s energy industry. During his address to the national chamber assembly, Premier Kenney announced Alberta would drop eight more exemptions to the Canadian Free Trade Agreement – leading all regions’ efforts to reduce internal trade barriers across the nation.

Lisa Kowalchuk, Executive Director of the Medicine Hat and District Chamber, was recognized as Executive of the Year during the Canadian Chamber Executives conference, with six Alberta chamber executives recognized for five- and 10-year milestones of service in the chamber movement.

Alberta policy leadership

• Largest provincial delegation

• 18 per cent of resolutions proposed

• 12 of 14 proposed resolutions adopted

10 years of service recognition: Alberta Chamber Executives Tanya Oliver, Grande Prairie and District Chamber (second from left); Megan Wakefield, Bonnyville and District Chamber (second from right), Lisa Kowalchuk, Medicine Hat and District Chamber (right).

Five years of service recognition: Monica Bartman, Lacombe and District Chamber (left), Natalie Charlton, Hinton and District Chamber (second from left), Carla Gabert, Innisfail and District Chamber (middle), Janet Riopel, Edmonton Chamber (third from right)


ROUNDTABLESEach year, the ACC plans up to six roundtables across the province. In 2019, our network hosted five roundtables—one each in Brooks, Canmore, Spruce Grove, Stettler, and Vermilion. Thank you to those chambers for assisting us with planning and hosting these events.

In 2019, these events included a total of nearly 100 chamber staff and volunteers. With both federal and provincial elections scheduled for the year, 2019 had no shortage of discussion topics. Our network undertook a new election initiative with our Vote Prosperity platform, which featured prominently in these roundtable discussions. Thank you to all chamber representatives who supported this initiative, sharing priorities and engaging members. Aside from the Vote Prosperity campaign, other roundtable topics included chamber and board governance, value-added updates,

our business apprenticeship program, a chamber’s role in economic development, and advocacy and government engagement. Thank you to Pamela Brace, Chambers Group Plan Regional Marketing Manager, for joining us and providing updates on the plan.

A key part of each roundtable event is, as the name implies, a roundtable discussion with attendees to share chamber experiences, celebrating the positives and seeking solutions to the challenges. This networking and discussion opportunity is an invaluable part of each event.

If your chamber is interested in hosting a roundtable in your community, please contact Tracy Acorn, Chamber Services Manager, at [email protected]@abchamber.ca. Roundtables are only open to chamber volunteers and staff. If you have yet to join us for one, please consider doing so in 2021.

mailto:tacorn%40abchamber.ca?subject=Roundtable


2018 CHAMBER OF THE YEAR AWARDS – AWARDED IN 2019Each year, the ACC requests submissions from chambers to recognize some of our community chamber champions—awarding four “chambers of the year” based on chamber size and work the prior year.

Thank you to all the chambers who made a submission. The ACC executive takes recognizing our member chambers seriously; the strength of our federation is truly in our grassroots approach. Our entire network benefits when we recognize leadership and chamber excellence.

Chamber of the year: 151-350 members, Hinton and District Chamber of Commerce.

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR WITH MEMBERSHIP UNDER 150:BEAUMONT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Beaumont Chamber has remained committed to its mandate of engaging and supporting its local business community. Putting words into action, the chamber developed a speaker series and workshops to showcase the skills of local businesses, foster collaboration, and build lasting partnerships.

The Beaumont Chamber has worked tirelessly to advocate at the regional and municipal levels. Through work by the chamber with local leaders, Beaumont now has a new signage bylaw to better meet the needs of local businesses.

Newly formed in 2014—and with a growing membership of more than 120—the Beaumont Chamber has excelled in representing its business community.

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR WITH MEMBERSHIP BETWEEN 151 AND 350:HINTON AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Hinton and District Chamber fully embraces the motto that size doesn’t matter when it comes doing great work at all orders of government. The Hinton Chamber has successfully aligned with likeminded organizations in its community to help further the town’s growth and prosperity.

Through this hard work, the chamber recently celebrated a major success with the Canadian Chamber adopting its mountain pine beetle policy at the 2018 AGM and Policy Session. The Hinton Chamber has also been successful in other advocacy work, specifically as a strong voice in a collaborative “shop local” campaign.

In addition to its advocacy work, the Hinton Chamber still managed to pull off many successful events for its members and community, including the “Beer & Blue Jeans” summer golf tournament and its annual Canada Day parade.

Chamber of the year: Under 150 members, Beaumont Chamber of Commerce.


Chamber of the year: 651+ members, Medicine Hat and District Chamber of Commerce

Chamber of the year: 51-650 members, Spruce Grove Chamber of Commerce.

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR WITH MEMBERSHIP BETWEEN 351 AND 650:SPRUCE GROVE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Spruce Grove Chamber has taken a truly regional approach to advocacy, demonstrating that success comes from productive partnerships and non-partisan collaboration.

The Spruce Grove Chamber succeeded in raising its community profile, working collaboratively with the city to welcome and support new businesses with commemorative plaques. Additionally, the chamber has prioritized inclusion and diversity in the workplace by partnering with organizations including Inclusion Alberta and its local public library.

In 2018, this chamber focused on regional advocacy, drawing on its close relationship with the city to implement a fair and equitable retail cannabis bylaw.

The Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Greater Wabamun Chambers have now strengthened the chamber federation by joining to become one unified chamber, the Greater Parkland Regional Chamber of Commerce.

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR WITH MEMBERSHIP ABOVE 651:MEDICINE HAT & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Through strong communications, the Medicine Hat Chamber of Commerce maintains connections with more than 780 members and the greater Medicine Hat community. Through ongoing engagement, the Medicine Hat Chamber understands its community and addresses issues most important to local business.

The Medicine Hat Chamber plays an active role as the unified voice for its business community. In 2018, the chamber worked on a long list of issues ranging from corporate income tax to municipal air services.

Chambers across Alberta and the country rely on Medicine Hat Chamber representatives for their support and expertise. With strong board direction and staff in stylish red jackets, Medicine Hat Chamber representatives are noticed wherever they go.


POLITICAL ACTION DAY AND MLA DINNERAn annual favourite, we held our record-breaking Political Action Day and MLA Dinner on June 25, 2019. Members of the new government caucus attended the evening MLA Dinner. The day’s activities featured presentations from business and media leaders, as well as a question development session with members from 25 chambers from across Alberta in attendance.

Event highlights included:

• Daytime speakers Janet Riopel (Edmonton Chamber of Commerce CEO) and Michael Sullivan (Strategic Counsel managing partner)

• Morning government relations panelists Brent Kossey (Navigator), Doug Noble (Global Public Affairs), Jeremy Chorney (Canada’s National Brewers), and Cathy Kiss (Crown Strategic Consulting) discussed working with a new Alberta government

• Afternoon media panel with guests Graham Thompson (columnist/political analyst), Tom Vernon (Global News), Jennifer Crosby (Global News), and Emma Graney (Globe and Mail)

Michael Sullivan (Strategic Counsel) speaks to guests during the afternoon sessions.

• The evening’s MLA Dinner included 335 guests, including 16 ministers and 24 MLAs who met with chamber representatives, corporate members, and guests over dinner.

• Hon. Travis Toews, Minister of Finance, delivered the evening government keynote, followed by a Q&A with ministers and MLAs.

Travis Toews, Minister of Finance, takes questions from guests during the MLA Dinner.


The morning sessions kicked off with a presentation from Janet Riopel (CEO, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce).

Government Relations panelists Jeremy Chorney, Cathy Kiss, Doug Noble, and Brent Kossey.

Media panelists Graham Thompson, Emma Graney, Tom Vernon, and Jennifer Crosby discuss Alberta’s new political landscape.


FALL BOARD MEETING AND DEPUTY MINISTERS’ DINNERThis year’s annual ACC Fall Board Meeting and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner created opportunities to discuss current and emerging issues for Alberta businesses. We had a record 300 attendees, including 26 senior public servants and representatives of 23 community chambers. Education sessions during the day featured presentations and discussion around the challenges currently facing Alberta businesses, including a review of key takeaways for government from the ACC’s Alberta Perspectives survey on red tape. In the evening, delegates met with some of the province’s top civil servants at the annual Deputy Ministers’ Dinner.

Highlights included:

• Morning presentation from Shauna Feth (Executive Director of the Alberta Business Family Institute, Alberta School of Business) on succession planning for business, demographics and leadership

• Lunchtime keynote and Q&A with Hon. Tanya Fir, Minister of Alberta Economic Development, Trade and Tourism

• The afternoon sessions kicked off with a community red tape reduction panel discussion featuring Tyler Gandam (Mayor of Wetaskiwin and Alberta Urban Municipalities Association board member), Kara Westerlund (Vice President of Rural Municipalities of Alberta and Councillor for Brazeau County [Drayton Valley]), and Ken Kobly (President and CEO, Alberta Chambers of Commerce)

Lunchtime keynote speaker Hon. Tanya Fir responds to questions

from the audience.

• Hon. Peter MacKay spoke on Alberta’s role in confederation

• Katherine White, former Chief Economist of Alberta, explored the fiscal considerations of the Alberta Fair Deal Panel through a presentation and Q&A session

Jason Krips, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Trade, and Tourism facilitated this year’s Deputy Ministers’ Dinner and Q&A, which was attended by the ACC’s guests and Alberta’s civil servants.


Katherine White presents during the afternoon sessions.

Morning presenter Shauna Feth.

Jason Krips, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Tourism, facilitates the dinner Q & A period. Afternoon keynote speaker Hon. Peter MacKay.

Medicine Hat & District Chamber of Commerce Policy & Communications Director Katalin Lang poses a question to the Hon. Peter MacKay.

Aaron Fleming, ACC Second Vice-Chair, introduces the Community Red Tape Reduction panelists.


POLICY COMMITTEEThe Alberta Chambers of Commerce Policy Committee meets monthly during the policy season to discuss advocacy initiatives, emerging issues, and policy development across the network. The ACC encourages every chamber to consider appointing at least one representative to the committee to ensure our network develops timely and relevant policies for communities across the province.

This year saw excellent participation, with several new chamber representatives and a number of chambers participating in meetings and sponsoring policies for the first time. Chambers will present proposed policies—both new and renewing—at the 2020 annual general meeting.

The Alberta Perspectives market research program was a major focus for our network this year and played a prominent role in policy development. Collecting data on our current business environment helps our network develop relevant policy and present consistent messaging across our communities and to our elected officials. The data collected through this program will do even more to position chambers as leaders of—not only within—their communities.

Thank you to chambers for your continued contributions to ACC policy!

Rosetta Taylor is the 2019/20

Policy Chair.Rosetta is an

ATB Financial Branch Manager

in Spruce Grove.


With elections at both the provincial and federal levels, 2019 was a significant year for ACC advocacy.

Vote Prosperity—a platform to inform the 2019 provincial election—was a key advocacy initiative for the Alberta chambers network. The campaign featured four pillars (strengthening business competitiveness, growing provincial trade, building healthy communities, and improving government accountability) which, along with local insights and stories, the ACC communicated to Albertans through a Postmedia advertising campaign. Community chambers were keenly involved in the election process, hosting nearly 40 all-candidates forums across the province—several moderated by ACC staff. The campaign was a major success, with the new Alberta government acting upon 14 of 17 key recommendations. The campaign was later mirrored at a federal level, informed by the experiences of provincial chambers advocating on behalf of their local business communities.

Launching the Alberta Perspectives market research program also played a major role in ACC advocacy this year. The first two surveys, priorities for the province and red tape/business supports, collectively garnered thousands of responses—providing our network with high-quality, statistically relevant data to inform our advocacy. By capturing results at both the provincial and local levels, community chambers have access to data to help identify problems—and inform solutions—within their local business environments. With the program continuing through 2020, our network will continue to draw on the data collected to inform our advocacy.

ADVOCACY


2019 ALBERTA BUSINESS AWARDS OF DISTINCTIONThe Alberta Chambers of Commerce presented the 28th Alberta Business Awards of Distinction on March 1st, 2019 at the Edmonton Airport Renaissance Hotel. Two hundred and fifty-five finalists, sponsors, and guests attended the evening event. This was one of our most competitive years yet, and our sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to nominate a deserving business or share their own business story. We introduced five new award categories for 2019: Community Attraction Award of Distinction, Customer Service Award of Distinction, Global Growth Award of Distinction, Leading Edge Award of Distinction and Mentorship Award of Distinction. A big thank you to all our sponsors, nominators, finalists, and volunteers for making the night possible.

Sponsor of the Diversity Award of Distinction, Rebecca Smillie, Manager- Community Impact, Alberta Blue Cross.

Winner of the Customer Service Award of Distinction, Peavey Mart (Red Deer) with award sponsor Invest In You Today.

Rik Kaminsky of Solare Distributors Inc., winner of the Indigenous Award of Distinction, with ACC President Ken Kobly.


2019 ALBERTA BUSINESS AWARDS OF DISTINCTION WINNERS

Community Attraction Award of Distinction*

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Bear Creek Folk Music Festival GRANDE PRAIRIE

Customer Service Award of Distinction*IN PARTNERSHIP WITH INVEST IN YOU TODAY

Peavey Mart RED DEER

Diversity Award of DistinctionIN PARTNERSHIP WITH ALBERTA BLUE CROSS

Tiny Toes Castle RED DEER

Global Growth Award of Distinction*IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE

ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

BioNeutra North America Inc. EDMONTON

Indigenous Award of DistinctionIN PARTNERSHIP WITH SYNCRUDE

Solare Distributors Inc. SPRUCE GROVE

Leading Edge Award of Distinction*IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE


BIXSco Inc. EDMONTON

Marketing Award of DistinctionIN PARTNERSHIP WITH POSTMEDIA SOLUTIONS

Crowsnest Pass Property Management CROWSNEST PASS

Mentorship Award of Distinction* IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CPA ALBERTA

Tiny Toes Castle RED DEER

Small Business Award of DistinctionIN PARTNERSHIP WITH CPA ALBERTA

Bear Creek Funeral Home GRANDE PRAIRIE

Woman Entrepreneur Award of DistinctionIN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE


Hines Health Services FORT MCMURRAY

Young Entrepreneur Award of DistinctionIN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE


EverLine Coatings and Services SHERWOOD PARK

Alberta’s Best of Business Award of Distinction

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Carbon Credit Solutions Inc. AIRDRIE

*New category for 2019


Edmonton radio host Ryan Jespersen was the evening’s Master of Ceremony.

Winner of the Woman Entrepreneur Award of Distinction, Kristi Hines, Hines Health Services.

iPad WinnersIN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE


• Jacknife Oilfield Services (Bonnyville)

• Rose Muller (Jacknife Oilfield Services)

Sponsor of the Mentorship and Small Business Awards of Distinction, Chris Pilger, Director of Communications, CPA Alberta.


ALBERTA CHAMBER EXECUTIVES (ACE)The Alberta Chamber Executives (ACE) is an association of chamber staff from across the province. Through membership in ACE, chamber professionals are provided with opportunities to share ideas and management strategies.

ACE members look forward to gathering every year for a professional development summit. These summits allow for open dialogue and the opportunity to connect with our counterparts from across Alberta, participating in group discussions and professional development sessions. The St. Paul & District Chamber of Commerce was our fantastic host for July 10 to 12, 2019. Thank you, Linda Sallstrom, for putting on a great event!

The 53 participants at the 2019 summit took part in a variety of educational sessions. ACE members were treated to several presentations, including:

• the success-energy equation by Michelle Cederberg,

• a presentation by Heather Thompson of 13 Ways,

• finding funding from our partners for small business support with the Government of Alberta,

Each year at the ACC Chair’s Dinner during the ACC provincial conference, ACE presents the Chamber Executive of the Year Award to a chamber executive chosen annually by their peers. Nominations take place each spring in survey format for individuals who have made substantial contributions to their community chamber and to the network.

ALBERTA CHAMBER EXECUTIVE OF THE YEARSHARON ANDERSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CAMROSE & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

At the 2019 conference in Camrose, ACE President Monica Bartman presented the ACE Executive of the Year Award to Sharon Anderson, Executive Director of the Camrose & District Chamber of Commerce. Sharon served as ACE President in 2014, as a mentor for the past 10 years, as well as on a number of committees including the Professional Development Committee. Sharon’s contribution to the network is truly admirable. Congratulations on your award, Sharon!

• social enterprise with Dale Schaub, and

• communication boundaries by Tim Bear and Madere Birkill.

Thank you to our sponsors and chamber staff (including Lisa Kowalchuk of Medicine Hat) for facilitating these topics.

While the ACE Summit is the most comprehensive gathering of chamber professionals, the organization also holds meetings in conjunction with Alberta Chambers of Commerce events. Its executive and regular committees also meet monthly via teleconference.

The 2020 ACE Summit was scheduled for July 15 to 17 in Okotoks. However, given ongoing restrictions on social gatherings due to COVID-19, this summit has been postponed. The Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce will have the opportunity to host the next ACE Summit in the summer of 2021, and the ACC will begin planning our annual general meeting once the current restrictions have been lifted.

For information about ACE, visit www.abchamberexecutives.ca.

ACE: Executive of the Year Winner – Sharon Anderson (Camrose) presented by Monica Bartman (Lacombe).

http://www.abchamberexecutives.ca


2019 ACC DISNEY EXCELLENCE SUMMITIN PARTNERSHIP WITH INVEST IN YOU TODAY AND TOURISM CALGARY

This year’s excellence summit marked the 25th day of Disney Institute programming hosted by the ACC and our amazing partner, Invest in You Today.

Thanks to the incredible support of Tourism Calgary and marketing efforts by the Airdrie, Bow Valley, Camrose & District, Fox Creek, and Lethbridge chambers of commerce, 273 graduates received their Disney ears. Graduates included seven staff and board members from the Airdrie, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge, and Taber chambers of commerce.

To date, more than 1500 Alberta business leaders have graduated from these programs, including Disney’s Approach to Quality Service, Disney’s Approach to Leadership, and Disney’s Approach to Employee Engagement.

Calgary Tourism team member.

Tracy Acorn, Alberta Chambers of Commerce accepting a plaque to recognise the partnership with Invest in You Today.

Treaty 7 Urban Indian Housing Authority Team joins.


City of Plymouth team. Tom Pura, Grande Prairie Chamber of Commerce.

Invest In You Today Joy Delivery at Brenda’s House and Children’s Cottage Crisis Nursery.


SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIESThe Alberta Chambers of Commerce hosts a variety of events each year to raise the profile of Alberta business in our province and across Canada. These functions include:

The most influential business awards in the province are presented annually by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce. This event is funded by the business community for the business community. The awards, which recognize excellence in Alberta business, are attended by more than 250 business leaders and representatives from across the province in support of finalists and entrepreneurs. The highlight of the gala is the presentation of the Alberta’s Best of Business Award of Distinction.

This full-day function begins with education sessions presented by knowledgeable and respected experts. The Deputy Ministers’ Dinner in the evening provides an opportunity to network with the provincial officials who lead Alberta’s ministries.

The leaders of Alberta’s opposition parties attend Political Action Day during the daytime portion of the event to speak to our guests and answer questions. The evening includes a networking opportunity with members of the provincial government caucus during a cocktail reception and dinner. This function offers an excellent opportunity to meet one-on-one with key government leaders.

Our three-day conference sees chamber representatives gather for education sessions, networking opportunities, our Annual General Meeting, and the annual policy session. The hosting chamber makes sure the event isn’t all work by hosting a “fun night” on the Friday. The conference concludes with the Chair’s Dinner, when the Chamber of the Year Award is presented.

Alberta Business Awards of Distinction

Fall Board Meeting and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner

Political Action Day & MLA Dinner

Provincial Conference & Policy Session

View the Sponsorship Brochure Online

https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/2087/CMS/Brochures/ACC-Sponsorship-Brochure-2018-9-Email.pdf


CORPORATE MEMBERS50 Free Calls

A.P. Reid (formerly Robinson Insurance Brokers Ltd.)

AFSC

Alberta Chamber of Resources

Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association

Alberta Road Builders & Heavy Construction Association

Alberta Urban Municipalities Association

Alberta Utilities Commission

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association

AltaSteel

APEGA (Association of Professional Engineers, Geoscientists of Alberta)

Association of Alberta Registry Agents

ATB Financial

ATCO Energy Ltd.

ATCO Gas

Athabasca University

Bennett Jones LLP

BILD Alberta Association

Border Paving Ltd.

Business Link

Canadian National Railway

CAREERS: The Next Generation

Cenovus Energy Inc.

City of Beaumont

City of Edmonton

College of Physicians & Surgeons

Concrete Alberta

Constant Contact

CPA Alberta

CPHR Alberta (formerly HRIA)

Credit Union Alberta Central

Dentons Canada LLP

Doyle & Company

Dynalife

Edmonton Airports

Enbridge Pipelines Inc.

EPCOR

Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

First Data

Foresight Canada

Fort McMurray Airport Authority

Foster Park Brokers (Insurance)

Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited

Graymont Western Canada Inc.

Great Excavations Inc.

INSTIT

Johnson Insurance

Marasco Consulting Ltd.

Matheson Insurance/Sherwood Park Registries

Micronet Inc.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)

Oxford Properties Group

Purolator Courier Ltd.

RBC Financial Group

REALTORS® Association of Edmonton

RHPAP (Rural Health Physician Action Plan)

Rogers

Scotiabank

Servus Credit Union

SMS Equipment Inc.

Stantec Consulting Ltd.

Suncor Energy Inc.

Syncrude Canada Ltd.

TELUS Communications Inc.

Trans Mountain

TransCanada Pipelines

WCG Services

Western Management Consultants (WMC)

Westin Hotel Edmonton

Willoughby & Associates Inc.

Xerox, The Document Company Canada

Yellow Pages Group Corp.


VALUE-ADDED PROGRAMSPREFERRED MEMBER RATES FOR ALBERTA CHAMBERS MEMBERS

Employee benefits are an important tool for employers to attract new employees and retain experienced ones.The Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan® is Canada’s largest group benefit program for small business, serving more than 30,000 firms. If you are a farm or ranch, we can build a plan for you too! Contact your local Chamber or visit www.chamberplan.ca for a free quote today!

visit

Group Benefits with a Difference. Simple. Stable. Smart.

Payment solutions you can rely on. As an Alberta Chambers member, we know you work hard for your business, your employees, and your family. And we think you deserve a break.

Our specifically tailored program offers preferred rates for your chamber and your members’ insurance needs, including coverage for:

As a member of your local chamber of commerce, you can receive volume discounts up to 45% on Purolator Express® and Purolator Ground® services. Use the Purolator mobile app, e-ship services and online billing options.Visit www.Purolator.com/acc for more information or to register your business.

Chambers Plan.Simple. Smart. Stable.

The preferred shipping partner of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce

Grow your business with RevGenApps.comManage, monitor, and improve your online presence and marketing results with easy-to-use software, strategies, tools, best practises, tutorials, webinars, and workshops from RevGenApps. Claim your marketing toolset—a $275.00 gift for you! https://revgenapps.com/1-800-507-2459

Whether you’re a single sales force or a large fleet The Esso | Mobil Business Card program will give you exceptional fuel savings and help you manage your costs. Esso proudly has over 2,000 Esso and Mobil stations across Canada.Member businesses and their employees save 3.5¢/litre off retail posted prices. Visit www.essofleetoffers.com/AB-CHAMBER/ to learn more or sign up today.

A complete marketing solution that helps you connect with customers and build your business. Save up to 25% when you sign up through your local Chamber of Commerce, even if you’re already a Constant Contact user!Visit www.ConstantContact.com/partners/chamber Call 1-800-221-2793 Email [email protected]

Maintain Control, save time and money with the Esso™ | Mobil™ Business Card program.

Email – Events – Social Media – Surveys

Through their highly regarded and experienced team of professionals, Foster Park delivers exceptional standards of service, competence and a competitive pricing advantage.

CHAMBERM E M B E RP O R T A LRevGenApps.compowered by

MEMBERS BENEFITS: Merchant solution rates Device rental waived for the first 6 months Full disclosure rate system No set-up fees for your merchant account

• Commercial property and general liability,• Directors’ and officers’ liability (non-profit and for-profit entities),• Special events coverage, including host liquor liability, and• Special coverages including professional errors and omissions,

crime, cyber, and more.

Unlimited business banking account for only $30/month (regular price $60/month) No annual fee on an ATB business MasterCard for one year

Call Krista Gullage 403-801-3285 or e-mail [email protected]

To find out more about the Chamber Advantage with FPB Contact: Wanita Quaia, Account Executive. Direct: 780-930-4399, Fax: 780-486-0169, Email: [email protected]

http://www.chamberplan.ca

http://www.Purolator.com/acc

https://revgenapps.com/

http://www.essofleetoffers.com/AB-CHAMBER/

http://www.ConstantContact.com/partners/chamber

mailto:chamberprogram%40constantcontact.com?subject=

mailto:merchant.operations%40atb.com?subject=

mailto:Wanita.quaia%40fpb.ca?subject=


Johnson Insurance offers chamber members discounted home and auto insurance. In addition to exceptional coverage and premiums, Johnson Inc. also offers one Air Mile for every $20 in premium. Quotes available by telephone 1-800-563-0677, or visit www.Johnson.ca/acc to access rate informatio.n

First Data provides preferred payment processing rates as well as terminals and solutions to help Alberta Chambers member businesses be more competitive. Earn a $1,000 MasterCard gift card if First Data cannot beat your current payment processing fees.To find out more, speak to one of our Business Consultants today at 1-888-265-4117. Email [email protected] www.chambermerchantservices.ca

The Accutel Affinity Program brings tremendous value to all Alberta Chambers of Commerce members to help cut costs on their conferencing expenses. As an Alberta Chambers of Commerce member, you can take advantage of an exclusive rate for our Accutel Direct® Audio Conferencing service.Contact Pamala Mathews @ 1-877-299-7070 ext. 4018 or [email protected]

Realize significant savings, convenience, control, and security. Discounts of $0.02/litre on all grades of gas and diesel, 20 per cent discount on car washes and 3 per cent discount on vehicle propane. Petro-Canada also introduces their pre-paid card, available in denominations of $10, $25, $50, and $100. You must purchase a minimum of 200 litres per month to qualify for this discount. Visit your local Chamber to apply now.

Best rate home & auto insurance

Payment processing services – credit card processing

Affinity partner for collaborative solutions

A benefit opportunity – Audio conferencing, web collaboration, webinar services

Not just a service provider—your business partnerPayworks payroll for chamber of commerce members—save up to 40 per cent

Why Philips AEDs from Tenby Medical?

Fuel Discount Program

ACC negotiates value-added programs on behalf of the

province’s chamber federation. These

programs are available to business

members of Alberta’s community chambers.

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce has created an audio conferencing, web conferencing and webcasting affinity program for its members. This includes:

Payworks is a leading expert in the field of total workforce management solutions, providing innovative cloud-based solutions for payroll, human resources, and employee time and absence management to more than 20,000 businesses across Canada. View the Payworks brochure.

Are your home and business ready? Tenby Medical has teamed up with Philips to provide Alberta Chambers of Commerce members with an exclusive offer during heart month. Members can purchase AEDs from Tenby Medical and receive a $200 discount and free shipping on each AED purchased.

• 3.5¢/min audio conferencing rate for chambers• 4.5¢/min audio conferencing rate for chamber members• Electronic invoicing, bilingual operator assistance, no contracts or activation fees

Call 1-855-253-4780 x 9771.

Contact Payworks: 1 866 788-3500 [email protected] Visit payworks.ca / Facebook.com/Payworks / @PayworksInc

Visit tenby-medical.com/collections/promoUse promo code ABChamberAED at checkout

http://www.Johnson.ca/acc

mailto:chambermember%40firstdata.com?subject=

http://www.chambermerchantservices.ca

mailto:PMatthews%40accutel.com?subject=

https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/2087/CMS/Value_Added_Benefits/Payworks/Chamber-Payworks-loyalty-2018-(1).pdf

mailto:sales%40payworks.ca?subject=

http://payworks.ca

https://www.facebook.com/Payworks

https://twitter.com/PayworksInc?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

http://tenby-medical.com/collections/promo


MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSISMARCH 25, 2020

The following is a discussion of the strategic plan and 2020 outlook as well as the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2019 for the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC). The ACC reports our financial results under Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations.

ACC OVERVIEW, MISSION AND OBJECTIVES, GOVERNANCE AND STRATEGY

The ACC is a federation of 122 community chambers of commerce which represent more than 25,000 businesses in Alberta. In addition, we also have 75 corporate members that are also members of a community chamber. The ACC is a not-for-profit, self-governing organization incorporated under the Societies Act of Alberta.

MISSION

“The Alberta Chambers of Commerce, a federation of community chambers, is the advocate for Alberta business.”

The ACC exists to provide support to our federation of chambers. This federation includes at least one community chamber in each federal and provincial electoral riding. This broad geographic representation, coupled with grassroots-driven advocacy, allows us to be the premier advocate for business in Alberta.

ACC VISION

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce will be the premier organization representing Alberta business.

WHAT WE STAND FOR

• Professionalism

• Honesty, trust, and integrity

• Teamwork and mutual respect

• Achievement and continuous self-improvement

• Respect and dignity

• Diversity

• Transparency

• Tenacity

• Kaizen (continuous improvement)

• Integrity

• Collaboration

• Reputation

• Accountability

• Volunteerism


KEY PERFORMANCE DRIVERS

As a not-for-profit organization, the ACC is not driven solely by financial results. However, we rely on financial indicators to ensure our resources are used efficiently and appropriately. The ACC also uses several non-financial indicators to drive the organization and gauge performance.

Through an annual review of our strategic plan, the ACC ensures our deliverables and priorities continue to align with our mandate – one of the most important performance indicators we use. We estimate timelines and establish specific deliverables and projected resources and we expect deliverables to be completed on time, within budget, and at the highest quality possible.

OBJECTIVES

To achieve this mission, ACC will:

• serve stakeholders (chamber members, corporate members, sponsors, industry, and government),

• build and maintain media relationships; ensure the ACC is the “first call” on business issues,

• provide responsive and informed policy comment and advocacy,

• continue to encourage program participation and influence,

• build on policy advocacy and community chamber involvement,

• promote confidence in the ACC,

• ensure sufficient financial resources to achieve objectives, and

• support and develop the “chamber federation” concept.

STRATEGIES

To accomplish our objectives, ACC will:

• encourage and promote professional development for volunteers and staff,

• develop a new activity or undertaking to advance the ACC’s profile and relevance to members,

• develop opportunities for post-secondary students and businesses under the Business Apprenticeship Program,

• continue to improve media relations, explore new media opportunities, and monitor success of our media strategy,

• search for new strategies to get the ACC’s message to decision makers of all political stripes and orders of government, and

• increase effective two-way contact with community chambers.


GOVERNANCE

The ACC Board of Directors consists of the elected presidents/chairs of each of the 122 community chambers of commerce in the province. Presidents and chairs serve their term of the ACC’s board at the same time as they serve as president/chair of a community chamber. The board elects a six-member executive committee to conduct business and represent the ACC (see page 2 for members).

HUMAN RESOURCES PERFORMANCE

The quality of the ACC’s work environment and our ability to attract and retain highly skilled people are important indicators of our capacity to deliver results. The appropriateness and level of support for staff training and development; fair and reasonable working conditions and compensation practices; staff morale; and staff turnover all help to gauge the ACC’s success at providing a high-quality working environment.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

The ACC sets financial targets annually through the budget process. We determine our performance by the extent to which we meet financial objectives identified in the budget for the fiscal year and how effectively we manage our financial resources. We base this measurement on actual financial results for the year compared to the budget and prior year.

CAPABILITY TO DELIVER RESULTS

We discuss our delivery of results in four areas: capital resources and liquidity, net assets, non-financial resources, and systems and processes.

CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

At December 31, 2019, the ACC had a cash and cash-equivalent balance of $955,366, versus $939,165 at December 31, 2018. The ACC’s marketable investment consists solely of fixed income GICs which will mature from January 2020 to November 2022 and have interest rates of 1.0% to 2.69%. The ACC accounts for our marketable investments at fair value. During the year, the ACC acquired property and equipment totaling $1,483 ($2,161 – 2018). We believe that our current cash balance and anticipated cash flow from operations is sufficient to meet our working capital and capital expenditure requirements. Current assets at December 31, 2019 were $594,186 ($535,235 – 2018) and current liabilities at December 31, 2019 were $216,170 ($217,918 – 2018). This indicates an increase in liquidity of the organization in the amount of $60,699 when we compare December 31, 2019 to December 31, 2018.

NET ASSETS

Net assets at December 31, 2019 amounted to $896,879 ($841,043 – 2018) and consisted of $18,540 ($23,726 – 2018) invested in capital assets, $500,000 ($500,000 – 2018) of internally restricted net assets, and $378,339 ($317,317 – 2018) of unrestricted net assets.


UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS AND INTERNALLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS

The ACC believes that we should maintain unrestricted net assets to ensure a stable financial base sufficient to:

• Avoid major fluctuations in member fees from year to year,

• Cover unpredictable costs,

• Finance property and equipment purchases, and

• Provide start-up funding for special projects undertaken by the ACC.

Further, the ACC believes that we should restrict net assets to an amount equivalent to three to six months’ operating expenses. As the ACC is dependent upon our events as a major source of income, net assets have been restricted in the amount of $500,000 in the event one of our events is cancelled or financially compromised.

NON-FINANCIAL RESOURCES

The ACC relies heavily on experienced volunteers and employees to enable it to carry out our mandate. The ACC has an experienced team of directors, staff, and volunteers as well as well-developed processes.

SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES

The ACC maintains systems of internal accounting and administrative controls of high quality, consistent with reasonable cost. Such systems are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial information is relevant, reliable, and accurate and that the ACC’s assets are appropriately accounted for and adequately safeguarded. The ACC believes there are no deficiencies that would impair our ability to provide reliable and timely disclosure or affect our ability to execute our strategic plan.

2020 BUDGET SUMMARY

The ACC distributed our 2020 budget to all community chambers in February 2020. The accounting policies applied in preparation of the budget are consistent with those applied in the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, as stated in the notes to the financial statements. However, as with any budget, actual results for 2020 may vary from the information presented. Further. The effects of Covid-19 are not known as at the date of publishing this statement. Ongoing reporting is presented at every board meeting and quarterly financial statements are mailed to all community chambers.


FUNDING AND FINANCIAL RISKS

The ACC relies on fees from members, event registrations and sponsorship, and value-added program administration. In 2020, the ACC will need to continue to be mindful of expenses like any other Canadian organization.

HUMAN RESOURCES

The ACC depends on the services of volunteers to carry out some of our objectives. Volunteers’ talents and expertise are invaluable resources to the ACC. There is a risk that in the future, needed volunteers may not be as willing or able to devote their time and talents to the ACC. Without these resources, there is a further risk that the ACC would lose knowledge and incur significant costs. The ACC uses volunteer recruitment and board orientation and training programs to help manage risk in this area. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all volunteers who give of their time to benefit and strengthen the federation.

Variance

Event income vs. expenditures – $ (6,934)

Group insurance admin. fees + 15,957

Other revenue – (7,452)

Membership fees (corp. and chambers) – (42,058)

Executive and staff travel + 9,350

Salaries and benefits + 117,787

Bad debts – (3,525)

Rent – (859)

Amortization + 2,031

Other expenses + 62,510

RESULTS YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019

The net positive variance from 2019 budget to 2019 actual was $146,807. The positive variance is the equivalent of 10.7% of budgeted expenditures. Major categories contributing to this overall negative variance are as follows:


Today, 122 chambers of commerce belong to Alberta’s chamber federation, making us the largest business network in our province. Our members stretch across the province and, in turn, represent the 25,000 local businesses that work every day to drive Alberta’s economic engine.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this annual report and management discussion and analysis are forward looking, subject to risks and uncertainties. Several factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, fluctuation in the number of community chambers and corporate members as well as the decisions of our valued sponsors.


INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT

To the Members of Alberta Chambers of Commerce

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Alberta Chambers of Commerce, which comprise the statement offinancial position as at December 31, 2019, and the statements of change in net assets, operations, and cash flows forthe year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position ofAlberta Chambers of Commerce as at December 31, 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for theyear then ended in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations.

Basis for Opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilitiesunder those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statementssection of our report.

We are independent of the Organization in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit ofthe financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with theserequirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis forour opinion.

Other Information

Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the management discussionand analysis (MD&A) in the annual report.

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form ofassurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, indoing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or ourknowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we haveperformed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report thatfact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance withCanadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations, and for such internal control as managementdetermines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement,whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing these financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Organization's ability tocontinue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to a going concern and using the goingconcern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Organizations or to cease operations,or has no realistic alternative to do so.

Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Organization's financial reporting process.

1.


INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT CONTINUED

Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free frommaterial misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion.Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance withCanadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, theycould reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financialstatements.

As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professionaljudgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.

We also:

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or

error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is

sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material

misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve

collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are

appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of

the Organization's internal control.

Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates

and related disclosures made by management.

Conclude on the appropriateness of management's use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based

on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that

may cast significant doubt on the Organization's ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a

material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related

disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our

conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's report. However, future

events or conditions may cause the Organization to cease to continue as a going concern.

Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the

disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a

manner that achieves fair presentation.

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timingof the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identifyduring our audit.

Edmonton, AlbertaMarch 25, 2020 Chartered Professional Accountants

2.


Alberta Chambers of Commerce

Statement of Financial Position

As at December 31, 2019

2019 2018

$ $

Current AssetsCash (Note 3) 236,753 234,481Restricted funds (Note 4) 49,175 49,307Short term investments (Note 5) 169,438 155,377Accounts receivable (Note 6) 116,912 81,562Goods and services tax (GST) receivable 888 -Inventories (Note 7) - 715Prepaid expenses 21,020 13,793

594,186 535,235

Capital assets (Note 8) 18,863 23,726

Long term investments (Note 5) 500,000 500,000

1,113,049 1,058,961

LiabilitiesAccounts payable 93,719 88,757Chamber relief trust (Note 4) 49,175 49,307Goods and services tax (GST) payable - 3,928Deferred revenue (Note 9) 73,276 75,926

216,170 217,918

Net AssetsUnrestricted net assets 378,339 317,317Internally restricted net assets (Note 10) 500,000 500,000Equity in capital assets 18,540 23,726

896,879 841,043

1,113,049 1,058,961

Lease commitment - Note 12

Approved by the Board of Directors:

___________________________________Chair: Shawna Miller

___________________________________Treasurer: Jodie McFadzen

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.3.


Statement of Change in Net Assets

For the year ended December 31, 2019

EquityInternally in Capital 2019 2018

Unrestricted Restricted Assets Total Total$ $ $ $ $

Balance, beginning of year 317,317 500,000 23,726 841,043 827,694

Excess of revenue over expenses 55,836 - - 55,836 13,349Capital asset additions (1,483) - 1,483 - -Current amortization 6,669 - (6,669) - -

Balance, end of year 378,339 500,000 18,540 896,879 841,043



Statement of Operations


2019 2019 2018

Budget Actual Actual(Unaudited)

$ $ $

RevenueCommunity chamber memberships fees 242,200 246,940 241,936Corporate membership fees 156,350 109,552 112,164Event registrations and sponsorships 353,750 327,184 315,857Group insurance administration fee 390,000 405,957 379,121Interest 14,100 14,066 12,785Value added administration fees 84,800 82,799 81,278Other revenue 40,000 34,583 45,682

1,281,200 1,221,081 1,188,823

ExpendituresAmortization 8,700 6,669 8,525Bad debts - 3,525 5,291Bank charges 5,405 5,103 5,306Communications 16,000 6,605 5,896Corporate relations and promotions 18,600 764 2,039Equipment leases 10,000 10,170 8,776Events 213,314 193,682 243,241Insurance 3,960 3,851 3,851Office 34,600 38,262 42,687Professional fees 19,000 19,250 24,000Rent 71,651 72,510 70,457Salaries and benefits 765,430 647,643 683,990Staff training 12,000 1,299 3,079Special projects

Alberta perspective survey 38,500 29,250 -Entrepreneurial operating system 28,000 28,000 -Vote prosperity 25,000 26,377 -

Subscriptions and memberships 26,995 6,619 1,971Travel - executive 33,416 32,212 30,121Travel - staff 41,600 33,454 36,244

1,372,171 1,165,245 1,175,474

Excess (Deficiency) of Revenue over Expendituresbefore Draw from Operating Reserve (90,971) 55,836 13,349

Draw from operating reserve 91,500 - -

Excess of Revenue over Expenditures 529 55,836 13,349



Statement of Cash Flows


2019 2018

$ $

Operating Activities

Cash received from fees, registration, and sponsorships 1,167,804 1,167,091Cash paid to suppliers and employees (1,164,186) (1,144,912)Interest received 14,066 12,785

17,684 34,964

Investing Activities

Decrease (increase) in investments (14,061) 37,464Purchases of capital assets (1,483) (2,161)

(15,544) 35,303

Increase (Decrease) in Cash During the Year 2,140 70,267

CASH - Beginning of year 283,788 213,521

CASH - End of year 285,928 283,788

Cash is comprised of:

Cash 236,753 234,481Restricted cash (Note 4) 49,175 49,307

285,928 283,788




Notes to the Financial Statements

December 31, 2019

Description of the Organization

Alberta Chambers of Commerce ("Alberta Chambers") is incorporated under The Societies Act of Alberta as a non-profit, non-taxable organization. Alberta Chambers establishes and maintains a reciprocal relationship with localcommunity Chambers and Alberta businesses in order to lobby effectively on behalf of businesses at the provincialand national government levels.

1. Significant Accounting Policies

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian Accounting Standards for Not-for-Profit Organizations ("Part III") of the CPA Canada Handbook - Accounting. Significant accountingpolicies are described below:

(a) Cash & Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consists of bank deposits and savings accounts with a term of three monthsor less.

(b) Investments

Investments comprise of term deposits recorded at fair market value, and are classified as short or longterm depending on the investment maturity date.

(c) Amortization

Capital assets are recorded at cost and amortized annually with a corresponding reduction in Equity inCapital Assets. Assets are amortized over their expected useful life using the declining balance methodat the following annual rates, except in the year of acquisition when one-half the normal rate isapplied. No amortization is recorded in the year of disposal.

Computer Hardware 30%Computer Software 100%Office Equipment 20%

(d) Revenue Recognition

Alberta Chambers of Commerce follows the deferral method of accounting for revenue. Unrestrictedcontributions are recognized as revenue when received or receivable if the amount to be received canbe reasonably estimated and collection is reasonably assured.

Membership fees, which are voluntary, are recorded as revenue on a calendar year basis. The portionof membership fees collected in a current year that provide members benefits in the following year(s)are deferred and recognized as revenue in the year the benefits are received.

Revenues and expenses related to projects or events are deferred until the fiscal year in which theytake place.

Interest revenue is recognized when received and when receivable if the amount to be received can bereasonably estimated.

7.



December 31, 2019

1. Significant Accounting Policies - continued

(e) Financial Instruments

(i) Measurement of financial instruments

Alberta Chambers of Commerce initially measures all of its financial assets and liabilities at fairvalue, except for certain non-arm's length transactions.

Alberta Chambers of Commerce subsequently measures all of its financial assets and liabilities atamortized cost, except in equity instruments that are quoted in an active market, which aremeasured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized in net income.

Financial assets measured at amortized cost include cash, restricted funds, short term investments,accounts receivables, GST receivable and long term investments.

Financial liabilities measured at amortized cost include accounts payable, chamber relief trust andGST payable.

(ii) Impairment

Financial assets measured at cost are tested for impairment when there are indicators ofimpairment. The amount of the write-down is recognized in net income. A previously recognizedimpairment loss may be reversed to the extent of the improvement, directly or by adjusting theallowance account, provided it is no greater than the amount that would been reported at the dateof the reversal had the impairment not been recognized previously. The amount of the reversal isrecognized in net income.

(f) Contributed Goods or Services

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce receives the benefit of donated goods and services fromindividuals and organizations. The value of these contributed goods or services are recorded at fairmarket value in the financial statements. Volunteer time is not reflected in these statements.

(g) Inventories

Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is determined using the firstin first out method.

2. Measurement Uncertainty

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profitorganizations requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts ofassets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statementsand the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differfrom those estimates.

8.



December 31, 2019

3. Cash2019 2018

$ $

Operating 223,626 208,231Vote Prosperity 3,429 26,250ATB 9,698 -

Ending balance 236,753 234,481

4. Restricted Funds and Chamber Relief Trust

The restricted funds are held for the Chamber Relief Trust. Alberta Chambers collects donations on behalfof local chambers when emergency situations occur. Funds collected are used to support the viability ofaffected chambers.

2019 2018$ $

Beginning balance 49,307 69,453Bank charges (132) (146)Disbursements - (20,000)


5. Investments

Investments represent Term Deposits with a range of maturity dates from January 2020 to November 2022and interest rates of 1.00% to 2.69%. A portion of the investments have been allocated to long term as theyare internally restricted for net assets. See note 10.

2019 2018$ $

Principal 664,205 650,194Accrued interest 5,205 5,155Beaumont Credit Union - Common Share Member 28 28

669,438 655,377

Long term portion - internally restricted (Note 10) (500,000) (500,000)

Short term portion - unrestricted 169,438 155,377

9.



December 31, 2019

6. Accounts Receivable

2019 2018$ $

Accounts receivable 135,755 90,487Allowance for doubtful accounts (AFDA) (18,843) (8,925)


7. Inventories

The amount of inventories recognized as an expense during the period is $715 (2018 - $836), which isincluded in corporate relations and promotions expenses.

8. Capital Assets 2019 2018

Accumulated Net Book Net BookCost Amortization Value Value

$ $ $ $

Computer hardware 97,223 86,792 10,431 13,101Computer software 33,134 33,134 - 85Office equipment 74,815 69,495 5,320 6,650Leasehold improvements 13,190 10,078 3,112 3,890

218,362 199,499 18,863 23,726

9. Deferred Revenue

The following funds have been deferred and will be recognized as revenue in the year which the relatedexpenses are incurred.

Opening Additions Consumed 2019 2018$ $ $ $ $

Alberta Business Awards Dinner (ABAD) 55,500 48,750 (55,500) 48,750 55,500

Chamber Membership 184 - (184) - 184Oxford Tenant Improvements 20,242 - (9,716) 10,526 20,242Johnson Inc. - 14,000 - 14,000 -

75,926 62,750 (65,400) 73,276 75,926

10.




December 31, 2019

10. Internally Restricted Net Assets

The internally restricted operating fund has been established by the Alberta Chambers of Commerceexecutive committee to cover the operating and administrative costs of the organization. The board has setaside $500,000 (2018 - $500,000) as a reserve to cover approximately three months of operating expenses.See note 5.

11. Line of Credit

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce has an operating line of credit with TD Canada Trust. The limit is$25,000 and the interest rate is prime plus 1.0%. To date the line of credit has never been used. The line ofcredit is unsecured.

12. Lease Commitment

Alberta Chambers has committed to lease payments for both office space and equipment. The officeequipment lease expires April 2024 and the lease for office space expires January 2021. The annualoperating costs allocated by the landlord to the office space is not reflected below because this amountvaries each year therefore only the basic office lease payments are reflected in the schedule. Theorganization is committed to annual future minimum lease payments under the leases as follows:

Annual Leasehold NetMinimum Improvement AnnualPayment Allowance Payment

$ $ $

2020 55,802 9,715 46,0872021 13,430 813 12,6172022 9,755 - 9,7552023 9,755 - 9,7552024 2,439 - 2,439

91,181 10,528 80,653

The landlord has credited to the Alberta Chambers of Commerce a leasehold improvement allowance of$20.00 per square foot upon the occurrence or satisfaction of some criteria in the agreement of which one isthe commencement of the extension period (February 1, 2016 - January 31, 2021). Alberta Chambers ofCommerce does not plan to do any leasehold improvements during the extension period so the amount ofthe allowance ($48,580) will be credited against the monthly lease payments over 60 months.

11.



December 31, 2019

13. Financial Instruments and Concentration of Risk

Credit Risk

Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial asset will cause a financial loss for Alberta Chambers ofCommerce by failing to discharge an obligation. The credit risk is mainly related to trade accountsreceivable. Credit is provided to members and sponsors in the normal course of operations and the accountsreceivables are assessed by Alberta Chambers of Commerce and they record any amounts that are notcollectible in the allowance for doubtful accounts. The balance of the allowance for doubtful accounts as ofDecember 31, 2019 is $18,843 (2018 - $8,925).

Market Risk

Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of Alberta Chambers of Commerce financialinstruments will fluctuate due to changes in market prices. Market risk is comprised of currency risk,interest rate risk, and other price risk. The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is mainly exposed to interestrate risk.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk refers to the risk that the fair value of Alberta Chambers of Commerce financialinstruments or future cash flows associated with the instruments will fluctuate relative due to changes inmarket interest rates. The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is exposed to interest rate risk on its fixed rateand floating rate interest financial instruments. The fixed rate is subject to fair value risk while the floatingrate is subject to a cash flow risk.

Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that Alberta Chambers of Commerce will encounter difficulty in meeting itsobligations associated with financial liabilities. Alberta Chambers of Commerce manages its liquidity riskby monitoring its operating requirements and cash forecasts to ensure it has sufficient funds to fulfills itsfinancial obligations.

14. Subsequent Event

Given the outbreak of COVID-19 and the prohibition from attending locations or places where massgatherings of more than 50 attendees the Alberta Chambers may have to cancel future events that may havean impact on the revenues and operations during fiscal 2020.

15. Budget Figures

The budget figures have not been audited and are for presentation purposes only.

16. Comparative Figures

Certain comparative figures have been restated to conform with the current year's presentation.

12.

The ACC is here to support our federation of local chambers in

Alberta. We have at least one community chamber representing

business in each federal and provincial electoral riding.

PURPOSE - Microsoft...Excellence Summit 24 Sponsorship Opportunities 25 Corporate Members 26...

Documents

Transcript of PURPOSE - Microsoft...Excellence Summit 24 Sponsorship Opportunities 25 Corporate Members 26...