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Chambers collaborate for regional approach

Business groups are gathering to create one solid voice with the Southern Vancouver Island Chambers Alliance

Business groups are gathering to create one solid voice with the Southern Vancouver Island Chambers Alliance. SVICA is a collaboration of small and medium sized chambers from the Gulf Islands to Port Renfrew and Ladysmith created to pursue common interests.

Members of the SVICA have altogether 2,200 members and plan to work on issues that include: government relations, economic development, entrepreneurial training, event cross promotions and best practices and innovation.

“These chambers are small and medium sized chambers that have  much in common and can achieve more together in many areas than just on our own,” said spokesperson Craig Sorochan.

Sorochan is also manager of communications and community relations for the WestShore Chamber of Commerce, which acts as the secretariat and has chaired SVICA to date.

“We all look forward to working closely together on issues such as transportation, the E&N Rail and economic development.”

The new organization is to meet quarterly taking turns as host and chair of each session.

SVICA is made up of Sooke, Esquimalt, South Cowichan, Ladysmith, Duncan-Cowichan, WestShore, Saanich Peninsula, Salt Spring and Port Renfrew chambers.