Chamber U Registration
Full Semester Registration –
LIMITED TIME ONLY, ENDS SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
Wednesdays, September 11 to December 4, 2024 (except Economic Reconciliation in the Workplace (Tuesday Oct 22)
Chamber U is a comprehensive series of professional development classes designed to support and elevate the Nanaimo business community that have been meticulously crafted based on insights and feedback gathered from our Chamber members, ensuring that each class addresses the most relevant and pressing topics affecting our community today. Continual learning and development are cornerstones of a thriving business environment. These sessions are more than just training—they are investments in the future success of our local enterprises. Chamber U offers affordable training solutions aimed at bolstering your business’s growth and resilience, offering ways that will give your business an edge during uncertain and continuously changing economic times.
Classes are designed to be taken as a full semester or individually building a bundle that fits your need. Sign up here for the full semester and save 10% including the following classes:
- Generative AI: The ChatGPT Edge
- Cyber Security
- Building 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusive Businesses
- Business Continuity & Emergency Preparedness
- Essential Bookkeeping & Financial Management
- Marketing Essentials for Small Business
- Economic Reconciliation in the Workplace
Cybersecurity for Small and Medium Sized Businesses
Facilitator: Walter Anderson
Wednesday, September 11, 2024 – 3pm -5:30pm
This comprehensive class introduces participants to the world of cybersecurity, emphasizing its critical importance for small businesses. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of cybersecurity concepts and explore the various cyber threats that businesses commonly face, such as phishing, malware, ransomware, and social takeovers. This class will empower business owners with the knowledge and tools necessary to assess their current cybersecurity posture and identify key areas for improvement, and provide a clear picture of the cybersecurity landscape and the challenges small businesses must navigate to protect their operations.
Generative AI: The ChatGPT Edge
Facilitator: Jennifer Hufnagel
Wednesday, September 18, 2024 – 3pm to 6:00pm
Spark your curiosity, have some fun, and stay current with our hands-on AI workshop focused on Generative AI, diving deep into the practical applications of ChatGPT.
Marketing Essentials for Small Business
Register here for each class or just the classes you would like to attend
Course 1: Identifying Your Ideal Client
Facilitator: Peggy Richardson
Wednesdays, September 25, 2024 – 3pm – 5:30pm
Learn how to identify your ideal client through understanding Demographics vs. psychographics, and then craft your unique value proposition for your company.
Course 2: Finding Your Platform
Wednesday, October 2, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30pm
With Peggy as your guide, find your clients on the right platform for your target market and develop the language your clients need to hear, your brand voice!
Course 3: Creating Engaging Client Communication
Wednesday, October 9, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30pm
In this informative you will learn how to create amazing content for your platform that is fun, engaging and entertains, expanding your skills beyond the basics!
Economic Reconciliation in the Workplace
Keynote Speaker: Angela van den Hout
Facilitator: Desiree Baker
Tuesday, October 22, 2024 – 10am to 3pm
Lunch included
Participants will explore the principles of economic reconciliation and learn strategies to support inclusive growth and mutual prosperity. Join Desiree Baker at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, as she leads this inclusive workshop to support personal and professional reflections on the reconciliation process.
Essential Bookkeeping & Financial Management
Facilitator: Candice Wiekenkamp
Register here for each class or just the classes you would like to attend.
Course 1: Say no to the shoebox! Empowering Small Business Owners with Essential Bookkeeping Skills
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30pm
This workshop is designed to empower small business owners, who are currently doing their own bookkeeping/bookkeeping in house with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their bookkeeping activities. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the importance of accurate record-keeping and its significant impact on business decision-making. The workshop will provide hands-on guidance on setting up and reviewing your chart of accounts, understanding key financial statements, and identifying essential bookkeeping tasks.
Course 2: Operational Financial Management for Small Businesses and Non-Profits
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30
This workshop is designed for small business owners who are working with a bookkeeper or are in the process of sourcing and transitioning to one. Participants will learn to manage/enhance their existing bookkeeping process effectively, implement effective financial controls, and foster a productive working relationship with their bookkeeper and accountant.
Course 3: Elevating Business Success: Managing Finances and Making Data-Driven Decisions
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30pm
This workshop is designed for small business owners who have a foundational understanding of bookkeeping and are working with a bookkeeper/accountant. The focus will be on managing their business using financial statements, with an emphasis on budgeting, cash flow management, and making informed business decisions based on financial data. Participants will engage in hands-on activities, group discussions, and receive practical tips to enhance their financial management skills and drive business growth.
Building 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusive Businesses
Register here for each class or just the classes you would like to attend.
Course 1: “Building 2SLGBTQIA+ Friendly Workplaces”
Facilitator: Lauren SempleWednesday, October 30, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30
This session focuses on creating an inclusive and supportive workplace environment for 2SLGBTQIA+ employees. Participants will learn about the importance of cultivating an inclusive culture, fostering allyship, and a basic foundation of community competency. The session will also cover strategies for seeking and engaging diverse staff and suppliers, including using directories and other resources. By the end of this course, attendees will have practical tools and insights to enhance their workplace inclusivity and actively support 2SLGBTQIA+ team members.
Course 2: “Engaging the 2SLGBTQIA+ Market”
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30
This session provides essential insights into effectively engaging the 2SLGBTQIA+ market. Participants will explore market trends, learn about common sensitivities to avoid, and gain marketing advice tailored to this community. Additionally, the session will cover how to achieve business accreditation to demonstrate commitment to inclusivity. By the end of the course, attendees will have a comprehensive understanding of how to connect authentically with 2SLGBTQIA+ clients and enhance their business’s reputation within this market.
Business Continuity & Emergency Preparedness
Register here for each class or just the classes you would like to attend.
Course 1: Foundations of Continuity Planning & Developing Your Continuity Plan
Wednesday, October 16, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30pm
This workshop introduces the basics of business continuity planning, including the fundamental concepts and importance of developing a continuity plan. It aims to help business owners understand the need for planning, having appropriate insurance and the potential consequences of not being prepared.
Course 2: Emergency Preparedness: Ready Your Business
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 – 3pm to 5:30pm
This workshop empowers participants to proactively prepare for potential emergencies by equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard their operations, employees, and assets. Participants will learn to identify risks, create actionable emergency plans, gather essential supplies, and engage with the local community for coordinated response efforts.
Business Resource & Relocation Guide
![Business Resource & Relocation Guide](https://nanaimochamber.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screen-Shot-2024-07-16-at-11.12.01-AM-1-300x293.png)
Business Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:30am to 4:30pm
2133 Bowen Rd,
Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H8