October is Small Business Month, and it’s also the time when we look ahead to next year’s Board of Directors at the Halifax Chamber. In my last article, I touched briefly on what it means to be a board member. Now, I’d like to share more about the process behind how the board is created.
The groundwork for creating the Board of Directors is laid out well in advance—often a year ahead—thanks to the leadership of the Chamber, including the President and staff. They organize everything, from inviting people to submit their applications to managing nominations. The Past Chair is ultimately responsible for leading this process and keeping the board informed.
Individuals can be nominated to the board by colleagues or others who believe in their ability to contribute. If you would like to nominate yourself or someone you know, please contact the Chamber at info@halifaxchamber.com. We have various committees, three of which report to the board: Audit and Risk, HR and Governance, and Membership. When you join the board, you are expected to participate in one of these committees, which are critical to the organization’s functioning.
Serving on the board requires authenticity, commitment and dedication, and we must be prepared to sacrifice our time. As a small business owner, I appreciate how the Chamber collaborates with me to ensure I don’t lose focus on my business while still contributing effectively.
Donna Harding, one of our Officers, perfectly sums up my thoughts on being a part of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “It provides small and large business owners and executives an opportunity to learn from each other and support business initiatives and government liaison for Halifax and beyond,” says Donna. “The time and effort spent is so worth it—you get back far more than you put in and are better for the experience and interaction, along with learning how government and business work together.” In my case, it will have been a seven-year commitment at the end of my term.
Everyone has a role at the board table, and it’s important that all voices are heard—from the newest employee to the longest-serving board member. No one person is more important than another. We all work together, and each brings unique contributions to the table.
Additionally, one of the Chamber’s vital functions is upholding principles of diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion through our governance and audit processes. As board members, we must ensure everything is done properly and adhere to the organization’s bylaws. When you join the board, it’s essential to recognize that you are governed by these bylaws.
One common misconception is that board members, especially the Chair, have unchecked access to funds. Rather than providing direct funding, the Chamber’s primary responsibility is to advocate for its members, provide education, and serve as a sounding board for businesses of all sizes. We develop annual plans and execute them throughout the following year. Financial policies, in terms of donations or contributions, are developed with the entire board and the management team.
Small Business Month
October is an exciting time for small businesses to showcase their contributions to our province. It’s an opportunity for businesses to collaborate, share information, and learn from one another. So, when we attend events showcasing our businesses, let’s celebrate each other’s successes and create a positive atmosphere. It’s vital for everyone to feel that their business matters.
After all, small businesses represent 85% of our over 1,900 members at the Halifax Chamber. Regardless of size, every business plays a vital role in enhancing Nova Scotia’s economic sustainability.
Of course, we face challenges, including slow economic growth, fluctuating interest rates, and high taxes, which can impact small businesses. We know that many struggled during COVID, and even now, they are working hard to keep their doors open, pay employees, and maintain operations.
We strive to provide as much support as possible to small businesses at the Chamber. We actively lobby the government and larger businesses to ensure small businesses are not overlooked. This advocacy is central to our mission.
Many believe Nova Scotia is a province of have-nots, but the contributions of our businesses, in terms of services, knowledge, and expertise, tell a different story. Nova Scotia is not to be underestimated in terms of economic activity; billions of dollars circulate here. We have a significant global presence, and small business plays a critical and vital role in our local and broader economies. We wish you continued success as we continue to work together for the betterment of our province.
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