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Big changes coming at GDACC

February 25, 2015   ·   0 Comments

Big changes are on the way for the Greater Dufferin Area Chamber of Commerce (GDACC), including a change in faces and in name.

The Chamber, which was originally created in 1909, and then re-established in 1949, has worked to bring the local business community together, as well as advocating and providing support for its Dufferin members in business.

Last Wednesday, the GDACC announced that Pete Renshaw, who has served as the Chamber’s President for the past nine years, will be stepping away from his position to allow the next generation of leadership to take the organization forward.

“The time is right,” said Mr. Renshaw. “The Board has recently approved a rebranding to the Dufferin Board of Trade, has adopted solid strategic goals, and is poised to become a leader in business and economic development.”

Mr. Renshaw initially joined the Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2006, when he began working actively to shape the direction of the organization. The Chamber has credited him with being a key partner in developing a vision to work towards economic vitality and prosperity in the County.

In 2014, Mr. Renshaw received the Town of Orangeville’s Sesquicentennial Commemorative Award, recognizing his contributions to the community. Following his departure from the role of President, he intends to rejoin the board at Family Transition Place in June, and hopes he will have the opportunity to sit on one of Orangeville’s citizen committees.

Prior to his announcement, Mr. Renshaw spoke in support of the change in name to the Dufferin Board of Trade, which follows the footsteps of the organization’s original name, the Orangeville Board of Trade. The name change is currently pending Industry Canada approval, but once approved will move the Chamber forward into the rebranding stages.

“A rebranding will allow us to embrace the new global economy and business marketplace,” Mr. Renshaw said in a January press release. “We see tremendous opportunity to celebrate our expanded network and continue to provide value to the business community, our members and community leaders locally, regionally and nationally.”

The Chamber felt that as businesses move forward and are beginning to compete in the global economy, a change in name would reflect a more holistic approach and allow them to foster a vibrant economic climate in the County.

“We will continue to serve as a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the region’s business community,” said Mr. Renshaw. “And will continue to offer a variety of programs, activities, services and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects and the overall business climate of the area.”

As the organization moves forward in 2015, it will pursue several strategic priorities that will guide their efforts in enhancing economic prosperity in Dufferin County. These strategies include:

• Fostering collaboration and partnership among business, government, thought leaders and community builders for integrated regional development.

• Facilitating improvements to the region’s competitiveness by encouraging investment, economic development and job creation.

• Serving as the primary communications hub to gather and share information between regional stakeholders.

• Promoting the unique assets of the region to business, residents and visitors.

• Facilitating and promoting opportunities for business celebration, development, training and networking.

• Maintaining a sustainable and efficient operational environment.

Following approval from Industry Canada, the GDACC will begin to send out rebranding kits to partners and members of the Chamber.

At this point in time, the GDACC has not released a statement regarding who will replace Mr. Renshaw as president.

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