Going InternationalPi Poa 4) ap. Waterfront «Development Saint John Board of Trade PORT UPT@WN 2x BrunswickMarch 09 - Volume 6 No. 1 ning ou ea fx 06 68 Acthe beginning of 2009 we find ‘ourselves in the position of looking both behind us at 2008 and abead of us at 2 2008 saw many accomplishments for ‘our Board of Trade including: the announcement of the Provineial Anglophone Medical Training Program at UNBSI. the funding for both the twinning of Route | from Saint John to St. Stephen and the One-Mile Highway Interchange; funding announcements for the expansion of the New Brunswick ‘Community College in Saint John which helps to address another issue which is workforce demand, This year promises to be one of challenges for many. While the international economy is taking a beating, ‘we in Saint John have been insulated, not isolated, from it by our growth and development in the Energy sector and the spinoffs from that growth to other sectors ‘of our economy. While we have been fortunate to be insulated, we recognize that this year may be challenging to our members, As companies and individuals will be ‘counting their pennies and stretching their dollars, I would like to take a moment to ‘ensure that our members get the full benefit oftheir membership. Some key tips for making the most of your ‘membership include ‘Attend networking events - the Board of Trade provides excellent networking ‘opportunities for you to build relationships ‘with other members to grow your ‘business. Our Business Mixers are FRI to attend; ‘Take advantage of our Benefits and savings programs - the group health insurance plan, discounts on ‘VISA/Mastercard merchant rates, and as part of the Atlantic Provinces Chambers ‘of Commerce we can offer our members ‘other money saving benefits; Chair’s Message Marketing and advertising - Our (Currents magazine and Annual Membership Networking Directory are excellent ways to promote your business to the Board of Trade membership and beyond. Also, through our website! Every member is automaticaly listed on the website with a FREE website link along with Google maps. And, members ate now able to update their website listing and include their logo, company profile, and bios of key reps. Use these tools when shopping for goods and services. We always encourage members todo business with members fist. Join a Committee - meet and network with other business people and impact the policy and advocacy decisions made at the Board of Trade; Sponsor a BoT event - to provide your business with positive recognition; Attend Business seminars like our Lunch ‘N Learns and our Tool Boxes - take advantage of the various high quality education and training sessions available through the Board of Trade to help you and your business develop: Attend Business events - be visible in your local business community. Have others get to know you by face and name. Itis easier for you to be introduced to other valuable business contacts when you are present, Looking further ahead in 2008, we at the Board of Trade realize that our community and businesses have achieved alot of success over the years that does not always receive the altention it deserves. (Our Retail Forum has noticed ths is particularly the case with respect to the retail sector in Saint John. They have recently created a “Good News in Saint John’ insert which is included inthis issue cf Currents to highlight the positive developments in the retail sector. Take advantage of your Saint John Board of Trade... it makes good business sense. To learn more, visit wwwsjboardoftrade.com or give our office acall at 634-8111. @ = quan 6002 wen