Frequently
Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve got answers! Here are a few questions we commonly receive from our friends in the business community:
Is the Clarington Board of Trade the same as a Chamber of Commerce?
The terms Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade are interchangeable. Both are membership-based organizations that support local businesses through advocacy, networking, education, and community promotion. The distinction is mostly historical or regional. Board of Trade is generally an older term reflecting the original “trading” roots, promoting trade in a region. Functionally there is no difference in what they do.
Does CBOT only support businesses if they are members?
We support all business regardless if they are members or not. Membership is a tool to enhance business engagement and reflects the important collective contribution of business to the shared story and voice of community.
I am not a member - can I still attend member events?
Absolutely. Non-members pay non-member pricing to attend events.
How is CBOT funded?
CBOT is funded through membership dues, event revenue, advertising sales, and sponsorship, as well as select partnerships with stakeholders that support our mission such as the Durham College student membership program, and the Municipality of Clarington business retention initiatives supporting economic development.
Is CBOT part of the government?
The Clarington Board of Trade is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization and is not a government agency.
Can you answer any questions about Municipal by-laws, zoning, development processes? Community services, infrastructure, Etc?
CBOT can definitely help businesses connect with the right members of staff at the Municipality or any level of government who can help get the answers you are looking for.
I’m a new business who plans on opening/just opened, can you help with a ribbon cutting?
We sure can! Just reach out to [email protected] and we would be glad to chat with you about a day and time you are available to do a ribbon cutting. We would then invite the Mayor and Members of Clarington Council as well as other leaders in the community to join the celebration!