This weekend, the Windsor Essex, Leamington-District, and Amherstburg Chambers of Commerce proudly host the 113th Annual General Meeting of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), following a successful joint bid to bring the event to the region.
Nearly 150 delegates from across Ontario’s Chamber Network will gather in Windsor-Essex as the event also marks the official launch of the Windsor Essex Chamber’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
This year’s AGM arrives at a pivotal time — as Windsor-Essex continues to stand at the forefront of national and international trade discussions. Hosting delegates from across Ontario during such a critical period is both an honour and a powerful opportunity. It’s a moment to demonstrate the region’s resilience, innovation, and economic strength firsthand.
“We’re incredibly proud to welcome chamber leaders from across Ontario,” said Ryan Donally, President and CEO of the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce.
“This is more than just a meeting — it’s a chance to share Windsor-Essex’s story of resilience and innovation. At a time when our region has been at the forefront of national trade conversations, it’s a perfect moment to highlight the incredible businesses and opportunities we have to offer.”
The experience begins Thursday, April 24, with a Rum Runners-themed welcome reception at Beachgrove Golf & Country Club, where history and hospitality meet.
Guests will be immersed in the region’s storied past with vintage vehicles, live jazz from the Austin Di Pietro Quartet, and a performance by the local Rum Runners Tour ensemble — setting the tone for a weekend that celebrates Windsor-Essex as a vital and vibrant hub of opportunity.
After a successful joint bid with Wendy Parsons of the Leamington District Chamber and Anne Creery of the Amherstburg Chamber, and a year of planning, this three-day event offers delegates a blend of networking, policy discussions, and regional experiences, including:
Thursday, April 24, 2025
- Gordie Howe International Bridge Tour, with Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority
- Host Reception at Beachgrove Golf & Country Club
- Featuring the Rum Runners Tour by Encore Productions, historic vehicles from the Canadian Transportation Museum, and live jazz
Friday, April 25, 2025
- AGM Proceedings – closed to media
- Welcome remarks from Nikki van Oirschot (Caldwell First Nation), Mayor Drew Dilkens (Windsor), Warden Hilda MacDonald, and Daniel Tisch (President & CEO, OCC)
- National anthem performed by Chantel Kuli of Windsor Light Music Theatre
- Keynotes and workshops centered on this year’s theme: “Bridges, Not Barriers: Building Connected Communities and Economies”
Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Policy Resolution Debate Sessions – closed to media
“Today, Chambers of Commerce from every corner of Ontario converge on Windsor, a city on the front lines of the conversation about Canada’s future as a trading nation.” Daniel Tisch, President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
“By learning and strategizing together, we aim to raise our game even higher in the way we convene, mobilize and empower Ontario businesses to diversify, prosper and grow – benefitting their people and their communities.”