Unlock Business Success: Join Our Free Events!
Free for All:
We are the only Chamber of Commerce that offers free access to all our networking and learning breakfast events, aiming to build a stronger West Valley business community.
Open to Non-Members:
Everyone is welcome, whether you're a member or not.
Build Your Network:
Connect with fellow business owners and industry experts.
Stay Informed: Get up-to-date information and insights to grow your business.
Join us for a complimentary breakfast event by the Chamber of Commerce, sponsored by Ottawa University. In just 90 minutes, build genuine connections and energize your business without the pressure of selling.
Typical Agenda
7:30 am Networking / 8:15 am Program / 8:45 Adjourn and More Networking
NETWORKING & LEARNING REIMAGINED
Grow Your Business with Connections, Knowledge & Inspiration
Are you ready to take your business to new heights? Look no further! Our Chamber Academy and Networking events are designed to empower you with knowledge, connections, and inspiration.
- A Refreshing New Way to Connect & Learn
- Free to attend. Coffee and breakfast treats included.
- Spend 90 minutes with us – it’s like a power boost for your business!
- Networking Magic: Build meaningful connections without the pressure of selling. It’s all about genuine relationships.
- Expert Insights: Our academic faculty consists of esteemed educators, researchers, and professors who know the secrets of success.
- Lively Presentations: This is not snoozefest! Our short, punchy talks will educate and ignite your enterprising spirit
- Typical Agenda 7:30 am Networking / 8:30 am Program / 9:00 Networking & Adjourn
Why are these events free?
Our breakfast events are free to encourage networking and community engagement. By offering these events at no cost, we aim to foster connections, share valuable information, and support the growth of our business community without financial barriers.
Sponsor:
Expert Insights and Short Punchy Talks!
Ottawa University proudly sponsors the Chamber Academy & Networking: Learn, Grow & Connect.
We’ve reimagined traditional networking by infusing it with an educational twist that’s both invigorating and insightful.
Our aim was to interlace the expertise of Ottawa University’s faculty, delivering succinct, impactful talks designed to kindle the entrepreneurial flame within our community.
Esteemed educators, researchers, and professors will share their insights and secrets of success on a variety of subjects:
- Current Trends
- Marketing
- Strategy
- Management
- Information Systems
- and more
The infusion of expert insights from academic faculty into chamber community events is a rare and valuable benefit to the business community.
Join us for a new way to learn and make valuable connections.
Re-Inventing Networking
Ditch the Pitch. Farming Not Hunting.
Networking’s not about sales pitches, door prizes and card spamming ... it’s about making connections, growing yourself, and your business. Think of it like farming – you plant, you nurture, you grow. And we’ve sprinkled in some wisdom from the pros to spark your business mojo to help you, and your business grow.
The Chamber Difference
Networking’s not about sales pitches, door prizes, and card spamming ... it’s about making real connections and growing yourself and your business. Think of it like farming – you plant, nurture, and grow. And we’ve sprinkled in some fertilizer (wisdom) from the pros to spark your business mojo to help you and your business grow.
Make Friends, Not Sales Pitches
Picture this: a referral pal who’s always there for you. It’s like being part of a superhero team, but instead of fighting crime, you’re boosting each other’s business. Say goodbye to endless pitches and card spammers. Say hello to a steady stream of referrals.
Be a Giver, Not a Taker
Networking is all about giving back. Help out, share what you know, and watch the good vibes come back your way. Ready for a new vibe? Skip the feeding frenzy and jump into chats that count.
Learn from the Best
No Strings Attached Our crew of academic experts are here to share their secrets to success – and they’re not selling anything. They’re all about you getting top-notch information and helping you succeed.
Make it Affordable, It’s FREE.
Hop on this new way to network and learn. Members are always attend for FREE. There are no extra costs, hidden fees, or surprises.
First-timers (non-members) get in for Free.
Forge lasting bonds and keep learning – that’s how you drive your business forward.
Our New Networking Experience Has Put an End To "Networking Disconnect"
What is Networking Disconnect? The founder of Business Network International (BNI), the world's largest business networking and referral organization, explains
networking disconnect. (watch his video) "
What You Need to Know About Chamber Networking
By participating in Chamber professional networking events, you acknowledge and promise to follow the established Chamber Networking Code. This commitment ensures that all interactions and engagements during these events are conducted with the utmost professionalism, respect, and integrity.
Cultivating Connections Beyond the Pitch
Networking transcends the mere act of selling your product or service. It’s an opportunity to forge enduring relationships that mutually benefit all parties. Rather than delivering a sales pitch, invest in understanding and supporting the aspirations of those you meet.
Understanding the Essence of a Network
True networking is not a numbers game of how many hands you shake; it’s about the depth of your connections. Aim to cultivate a supportive network that aligns with your ambitions instead of merely accumulating contacts.
Engage, Don’t Overwhelm
Resist the urge to blanket the room with your business cards (aka, card spamming). Effective networking involves engaging in dialogues that may naturally lead to exchanging contact information when establishing a genuine connection.
Foster Friendships, Not Contacts
You can approach networking with the warmth and sincerity you would give to a friend. This genuine demeanor encourages others to reciprocate, paving the way for a respectful and attentive exchange.
Quality Over Quantity
In the sea of faces, seek out individuals who resonate with your vision and values. Prioritize meaningful interactions over superficial meet-and-greets and ensure the nurturing of these relationships post-event.
Inquire with Intent
Initiate conversations with insightful questions demonstrating your interest in the other person’s perspective. This approach lays the foundation for relationships that extend beyond the first interaction.
Join the Dialogue
Don't hesitate to participate when you encounter a group engaged in discussion. Introduce yourself courteously and contribute thoughtfully to the conversation.
Reciprocal Networks
Consider the networks of others as extensions of your own. Offer your help to help them reach their objectives, creating a reciprocal dynamic that benefits everyone involved.
The Art of Giving and Receiving
Remember, networking is a two-way street. Be as eager to offer support as you are to receive it. Giving generously increases your chances of finding others willing to assist you in return.
No Predatory Practices/Code Violators
We advocate for a collaborative and respectful networking environment. You'll need to adhere to these guidelines; failure to do so may require you to leave the event to maintain a positive atmosphere for all attendees. Predatory practices include, but are not limited to, card spamming, non-stop sales pitches, passing out promotional materials, and "working the room".
Re-Inventing Networking
Ditch the Pitch. Farming Not Hunting.
"Networking’s not about sales pitches, door prizes and card spamming ... it’s about making connections, growing yourself, and your business. Think of it like farming – you plant, you nurture, you grow. And we’ve sprinkled in some wisdom from the pros to spark your business mojo to help you, and your business grow."
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Member Services by West Valley Chamber of Commerce