Our Organization

The Chamber’s origins date back to February 24, 1911, when it was incorporated as the Sydney Board of Trade with a membership of 38. The Industrial Cape Breton Board of Trade resulted from the 1969 merger of the boards of trade of Glace Bay, New Waterford, Dominion, Sydney, North Sydney, Sydney Mines and Louisbourg. In 2002, the Industrial Cape Breton Board of Trade became the Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce, to modernize our image and bring the organization in line with other business organizations in North America.

Over the years, the Chamber of Commerce has played a significant role in shaping the local economy. The Chamber was a lead advocate for the construction of the Canso Causeway prior to the start of this project in 1952.  We were also advocates for the restoration of the Fortress of Louisbourg prior to the start of this project in 1961.  The Chamber spearheaded the formation of the Cape Breton Tourist Association in 1958, the precursor of Destination Cape Breton.  Other areas of concern addressed by the Chamber since its establishment include the elimination of long-distance telephone charges amongst some Cape Breton communities, lobbying for additional television stations, and the establishment of the Sydney Harbour Development Board and Convention Cape Breton.  The Chamber was also the original proponent of the “Think Cape Breton First” campaign.

The economy has been undergoing a dramatic change since the late 1990s, from one centered on coal and steel to one with a broad range of elements, including innovation and knowledge, tourism, trade, and services.  Our natural resources remain an economic driver for our economy, including remaining coal reserves, renewable energy in the form of geothermal and wind.  As well, the planned developments around the Port of Sydney hold great potential for our region’s future.

The Sydney and Area Chamber of Commerce now boasts a membership of approximately 500, making it the third largest Chamber in the province. The Chamber continues to act as an advocate for local business, and the progressive development of our local economy.  We keep a close eye on government activities at all three levels, and advocate for policies, programs, and developments that would benefit those who live and do business in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.