Supporting local business, building connections, and navigating growing economic uncertainty were key themes at the Altona and District Chamber of Commerce annual general meeting on March 18.
President Kal Smith told attendees the past year had been “active and productive,” with a continued focus on strengthening the local business community and creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
“Bringing people together has always been an important part for the chamber,” Smith said, pointing to a range of initiatives including the membership appreciation golf tournament, Burger Week, the Great Chamber Gift Hunt, and new events like a Women in Business Paint Night.
The chamber also continued to prioritize workforce development, including its Local Career Showcase at W.C. Miller Collegiate and the launch of a new Biz Camp for Kids in partnership with Community Futures Triple R.
Smith noted the Chamber Bucks program saw strong participation, with just under $150,000 circulating through local businesses, and 33 new residents welcomed to the community over the past year.
Mayor Harv Schroeder highlighted signs of economic confidence in Altona, including more than $13 million in development permits issued in 2025—about $1 million higher than the previous year.
“These permits represent more than just construction,” he said. “They signal optimism and long-term commitment to our community.”
He said the town continues to invest in infrastructure, including roads, drainage and essential services, while also exploring new solutions such as a transportation pilot project aimed at improving access to work, health care and other services.
Schroeder also announced the municipality is preparing a budget with a zero per cent tax increase, citing ongoing cost pressures faced by residents and businesses.
“We know people are struggling with groceries, gas and many areas,” he said.
Rhineland Reeve Don Wiebe echoed the theme of growth, noting approximately $30 million in new development permits over the past year. He also pointed to ongoing challenges, including water management, irrigation demands, and long-term water supply concerns.
The meeting also included a presentation from Manitoba Chambers of Commerce president and CEO Chuck Davidson, who outlined broader economic trends affecting businesses.
Davidson said rising costs, labour shortages, and increasing uncertainty around trade and tariffs are among the biggest concerns for Manitobans.
“Cost pressures continue to increase,” he said, noting expenses such as wages, insurance, rent and utilities are putting strain on companies.
According to a recent survey conducted by the agency, 76 per cent of businesses say economic uncertainty is affecting decisions around hiring, investment, and growth. Concerns about trade disruptions are particularly high, with about 80 per cent of businesses expressing worry about tariffs and shifting global trade dynamics.
“That’s a new one,” Davidson said of trade concerns. “It wasn’t on the radar last year.”
Despite the challenges, he said there are signs of resilience. About 30 per cent of businesses expect to grow in the coming year, while more than half anticipate maintaining current levels.
Davidson said businesses are adapting by diversifying supply chains, sourcing more domestically, and exploring new markets, including opportunities within Canada.
He also emphasized the importance of reducing interprovincial trade barriers and improving infrastructure to support economic growth.
“We can only control what we can control,” he said, adding that collaboration between businesses, governments, and organizations like chambers of commerce will be key moving forward.
Smith acknowledged the challenges facing businesses locally.
“Me being the optimist, this could bring potential opportunities,” he said. “That’s exactly what makes a great business community.”
He also highlighted stronger collaboration between the chamber and Altona Rhineland Economic Development over the past year, including expanded staffing and shared leadership connections.
Looking ahead, the chamber plans to host its annual awards gala in April and continue advocating for local businesses.
Smith closed the meeting by encouraging businesses to stay engaged and look for new opportunities, even in uncertain times.
“I think one big takeaway is just being able to think differently,” he said.
