Another year has passed, and here at the Chamber we’re taking time to reflect on the growth and progress within our business community. This August, we welcomed our members to the 2025 Annual General Meeting, hosted by Albright Manor. The meeting provided an opportunity to come together, look back on the successes and challenges of the past year, and share our vision for the future.
A Year of Progress
Over the past year, we’ve seen tremendous momentum across our organization. From strengthening connections between local businesses to advocating on behalf of our members, each initiative has helped build a more vibrant and resilient economic landscape in Lincoln.
Advocacy
The Chamber strengthened its role as a trusted advocate and voice for local business—fulfilling our mission to represent, support, and connect the business community of West Niagara.
- This year, our Government Relations and Advocacy Committee reinforced its role as the voice of Lincoln’s business community. We hosted key events like the Politicians’ Breakfast, State of the Town, and Federal and Provincial Election debates while also responding directly to member needs.
- Our advocacy extended beyond events, with a focus on supporting new businesses through ribbon cuttings and standing alongside established businesses facing challenges.
- When businesses were impacted by construction, we strengthened communication with the Town of Lincoln and the Region to provide timely updates and support. Through partnerships with the Town of Lincoln, the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA, and provincial leaders, we ensured our members were informed, represented, and supported on the issues that matter most.
- In response to broader economic challenges, we partnered with the Town of Lincoln and the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA to establish the Lincoln Tariff Response Team. This partnership allowed us to act quickly, listen to business concerns, and address ongoing challenges related to U.S. tariffs and their impact on Canadian businesses.
- We also hosted and participated in roundtables with the Town of Lincoln and provincial Ministers of Economic Development, ensuring Lincoln’s voice was heard at decision-making tables.
Governance
- Held regular monthly board meetings
- Completed Bylaw Updates
- Completed Staff Performance Review
- Approved 2025 Budget
- Completed 2024/2025 Financial Audit
- Held Annual General Meeting
Other Accomplishments
- Presented a new offer for our members: Chamber Perks Mobile App. This app helps members and the community connect with and support Chamber businesses across the region — with deals, discounts, and special offers available to all.
- Created an Annual Sponsorship Package for a more cohesive brand representation throughout the Chamber and our community.
Events & Promotions
We hosted and supported a variety of events and promotional initiatives designed to connect, celebrate, and grow our local business community. From networking opportunities to community celebrations, each event provided a platform for members to showcase their businesses, build relationships, and engage with the broader community. Our events and promotions included:
- Pride Installation: A joint effort with the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA and sponsored by Custom Sign Lab
- Three Breakfast Before 9 events hosted by: The Watering Can, Penny’s Kitchen, and August Restaurant (sponsored by Meridian Credit Union)
- Seven Business After 5 events hosted by: DeSantis Corporate Centre, Mint & Magnolia, Calamus Estate Winery, Anytime Fitness, The Jacob, Beamsville Physiotherapy and Rotary Club of Lincoln + The Shore
- Two Business In Between events hosted by: Lincoln Pelham Public Library – Fleming Branch and The Yoga Vine, featuring London Born Wine and lunch from The Watering Can
- 2024 Annual General Meeting hosted by Sue-Ann Staff Winery with special guest Karen Hastie from The Chamber Perks App
- 2024 Annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards hosted by Harbour Estates Winery
- CKTB Roundtable Roadtrip hosted by Penny’s Kitchen
- Niagara Chamber Partnership Virtual Summit
- 2024 Mingle & Jingle: Christmas After 5 event hosted by Fieldstone at Bench
- Four Read & Lead Chamber Book Club meetings with Chamber President Katy Letourneau
- Breakfast with the Politicians hosted by The Jordan Hotel, attended by Mayor Sandra Easton, Dean Allison (MP), and Regional Counsellor Rob Foster. Sam Oosterhoff was in elections and attended as a regular resident.
- Provincial Election Event at West Niagara Secondary School, hosted by West Niagara Chambers of Commerce
- Federal Election Event at West Niagara Secondary School, hosted by West Niagara Chambers of Commerce
- Mayor Easton’s State of the Town hosted by Inn on the Twenty
- 2025 Annual Chamber Cup Golf Tournament at Twenty Valley Golf and Country Club
Marketing & Sponsorships
Our marketing efforts and the generous support of our sponsors played a key role in strengthening our reach and impact.
Thank you to our Gold Sponsors:
Thank you to our Chamber Star Supporters:
Marketing
This year, our digital presence continued to grow. On Instagram, we reached 22,144 accounts, garnered 171K views, and saw 3,260 interactions, with our top-performing reel hitting 2,746 views. Facebook engagement remained strong with 1,000 followers. Through Cyberimpact, our email campaigns reached 2,413 subscribers, achieving a 49% open rate and a 4% click rate.
Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities
- Sponsor an Event: A great way to have your organization highlighted in front of a targeted audience in terms of advertising, signage and recognition.
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Purchase Ad Space: Purchase an advertisement online or in print; include a free post in our newsletter, or take advantage of one of the many other cost-effective ways to broaden your reach in our community.
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Chamber Newsletter: Get your latest news and promotions out into the inboxes of a large local audience! Members have the opportunity to submit flyers, promotions, events, or specific details of their products and services.
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Social Posts: An opportunity for online cross-promotion. Create and send us a post and be seen by more than 3,500 viewers each month.
Looking Forward to What’s to Come
With another successful AGM behind us, we’re excited to keep the momentum going. The year ahead promises new opportunities to support our business community, foster collaboration, and continue strengthening the local economy.
Thank you again to everyone who attended events, contributed, or supported the chamber this past year. Our community thrives because of your involvement.
Here’s to another year of progress, together.