ABOUT THE CHAMBER

GET TO KNOW YOUR LOCAL CHAMBER

OVER 100 YEARS OF HISTORY

Established in 1902 as the Fernie Board of Trade to advocate and pressure the BC Government to make good roads to the CPR mill and other necessary improvements. The board was not a political group and they would avoid interfering with public matters such as town management and control.  They would ensure that what was good for the company was also good for the town.

The Fernie Chamber of Commerce has adapted and changed with the times and the needs of the business community.

Today the Chamber is not-for profit, membership-driven business association representing almost 300 businesses in Fernie area. The Chamber remains a non-political organization and continues to focus is on supporting Fernie businesses and the community. 

We are also members of the BC Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

OUR MISSION

To sustainably strengthen the local economy and quality of life in Fernie.

OUR VISION

A vibrant business support organization recognized for its valuable contribution to the local economy and the wider community.

OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES

DATA-DRIVEN

COLLABORATIVE

INCLUSIVE

ETHICAL

NON-PARTISAN

MEMBER DRIVEN

WHAT WE DO

ADVOCACY

The voice of Fernie’s business community, advocating on key issues to municipal, provincial, and federal governments.

EVENTS

We host over 35 events throughout the year such as professional development workshops, networking and community gatherings.

MEMBER SUPPORT

Membership helps strengthen the local economy while giving you access to valuable connections, resources, and cost-saving benefits.

WORK IN FERNIE

Work in Fernie workforce attraction website is an online job and housing board operated by the Fernie Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Tourism Fernie.

VISITOR CENTRE

From tourist recommendations and advice, to package pick up and drop off to boardroom rental and equipment rentals.  The Fernie Visitor Centre has something for everyone.

AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

A curated and fun way to learn about “All Things Fernie”  and strengthen your local expertise, build confidence, and empower you to represent Fernie at its very best.

MEET OUR BOARD MEMBERS

The Fernie Chamber is governed by a Board of Directors who set the high level strategic plan for the Chamber staff to execute. The Board is made up of individuals from the Fernie Business Community who each bring their experience and skills to the table.

Antony McEIwee
- President -

Hays Recruiting

Eldho Thankachan
- Vice President -

Eldho's Independent Grocer

Ashley Swansborough
- Treasurer -

TMM Projects

Scott Lauinger

Tow-All Rentals LTD

Penelope Simpson

Western Financial Group

Carter Clarkson

EVR

MEET OUR STAFF MEMBERS

Wendy McDougall

Executive Director

wendy@ferniechamber.com

(250) 423-6868

Kate Baines

Economic Development & Marketing Coordinator

kate@ferniechamber.com

(250) 423-6868

Cecile Lefort

Membership Engagement & Event Coordinator

cecile@ferniechamber.com

(250)-423-6868

Nikaela Large

Visitor Centre Coordinator

hello@ferniechamber.com

(778) 519-0748

JOIN THE FERNIE'S CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TODAY

Get access to exclusive benefits and connect with local businesses by becoming a Chamber member.

Or contact us at members@ferniechamber.com for more information.