The Elk Point and District Chamber of Commerce is planning a job fair, business support network and new recruitment efforts aimed at growing the community and supporting local businesses.

Chamber president Brienne Greening presented the organization’s 2026 strategic vision to council, highlighting both past successes and future priorities.

Among the initiatives is a job fair planned for September, aimed at addressing labour shortages in both businesses and agriculture.

“Many businesses and farms are facing critical labour gaps,” Greening said. “So to address this one of our plans is to host a job fair this year.”

The chamber is also working on a business support network, which could include regular meetings, guest speakers and collaboration between local businesses.

Focus on growth and attraction

A new “Hello Elk Point” digital campaign is also underway, targeting remote workers and families as part of a broader effort to grow the population and tax base.

“The aim is straightforward — to attract new families to our community,” Greening said.

Council also heard about efforts to better connect agriculture and main street businesses, recognizing the importance of both sectors to the local economy.

Building on momentum

Looking back, the chamber highlighted several 2025 successes, including:

• A four blooms rating in Communities in Bloom
• Increased tourism through major events
• A local scholarship supporting future entrepreneurs

Membership remains steady at around 57 businesses, with about 60 per cent already renewed for the year.

Council expressed support for the chamber’s work, with one member telling Greening, “No questions, just applaud you on your efforts.”