Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce
The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce (AVCC) is a non-profit organization and board of trade that represents approximately 320 businesses and organisations in the Alberni Valley region of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Founded in 1966, it serves as The Primary business advocacy group for Port Alberni and surrounding communities, operating the local visitor centre and managing tourism facilities under contract with the City of Port Alberni.
History
The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce was federally incorporated under the Boards of Trade Act on 12 December 1966. It succeeded earlier informal business associations in the valley and was created during a period of post-war growth in forestry and fishing industries.
The chamber has played a prominent role during major regional events, including recovery from the 1964 Alaska tsunami, the decline of large-scale forestry in the 1990sā2000s, and the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent decades it has expanded its focus to tourism and economic diversification, including operation of the Port Alberni Visitor Centre and commercial activities at McLean Mill National Historic Site.
Activities
The chamber advocates on behalf of members with all levels of government on issues such as transportation infrastructure, taxation, salmon restoration, and waterfront redevelopment. It is an active member of the British Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Other core activities include:
- Operating the Highway 4 Visitor Information Centre
- Managing commercial operations at McLean Mill National Historic Site under city contract
- Hosting monthly networking events and the annual Business Excellence Awards
- Promoting regional festivals (Salmon Festival, Thunder in the Valley, Forest Fest, etc.)
Business Excellence Awards
The chamber organises the annual Alberni Valley Business Excellence Awards (formerly Community Excellence Awards until 2022), recognising outstanding local businesses, organisations, and individuals. The 2024 gala was held on 29 November 2024 at the Italian Hall in Port Alberni.
Governance and funding
The AVCC is governed by a 13-member volunteer board of directors and employs six full-time staff. Funding is derived primarily from membership dues, contracts with the City of Port Alberni for tourism services, and grants from the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District.