SCDA’S JOURNEY AS A CHAMBER
The Similkameen Country Development Association (SCDA) has served as the de facto Chamber of Commerce since its founding in 2000. While never officially registered as a Chamber or Board of Trade, SCDA has always supported local businesses, provided networking opportunities and promoted economic growth – just like a traditional Chamber.
In addition to business support, SCDA operates as the region’s primary visitor services provider, a structure common in smaller communities. Our funding comes from contracts with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS), the Village of Keremeos, and Destination BC, rather than relying on membership fees.
Chamber of Commerce vs. Economic Development: Why We Chose Both
A Chamber of Commerce supports businesses through membership-based advocacy, networking, and resources. An Economic Development Organization takes a broader approach – attracting investment, supporting workforce development, and promoting long-term regional growth.
SCDA’s role naturally extends beyond a traditional Chamber model. By focusing on economic development, we continue to:
– Advocate for local businesses
– Host networking events
– Support tourism and small businesses
– Secure funding for regional initiatives
This approach allows us to serve the entire Similkameen – businesses, residents and entrepreneurs. It also gives us access to funding opportunities that wouldn’t be available under a traditional Chamber model.
What This Means for Local Businesses
Nothing changes! SCDA remains committed to business advocacy, networking and economic support – just with a broader, community-wide focus. You can still call us the Chamber of Commerce and we’re here to help businesses thrive.
For questions about our services, reach out to our team. We’re happy to provide support and ensure our community’s needs are met.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are you the Chamber of Commerce?
We’ve always provided Chamber-like services, even though we’re officially an economic development organization. You can still think of us as the Chamber!
What’s the difference between a Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development?
A Chamber mainly supports businesses that pay for membership. Economic development focuses on the whole community – businesses, tourism and regional growth. We do both!
Why didn’t SCDA just register as a Chamber or Board of Trade?
We looked into it, but staying an economic development organization allows us to access more funding and serve all businesses and the community as a whole!
What does this change for local businesses?
Nothing! We continue to offer the same support – advocacy, networking, and business services – just with a more focused approach. The only real change is that we’ve made a commitment to hold ourselves accountable by aligning our actions with the actual purpose of the society.
Can I still call you the Chamber of Commerce?
Absolutely! We function the same way, just with a broader focus on economic growth.
Will SCDA review its membership fees and services?
Yes. Since membership fees alone don’t sustain robust business services, we’re reviewing our approach to ensure long-term sustainability. As we shift toward a broader economic development role, we’re exploring a fairer fee structure that aligns with our mission. We welcome feedback from local businesses and hope they continue to see the value in supporting our work.
Why do you call yourselves SCDA now instead of “SimCountry” or the “Similkameen Country Chamber of Commerce” like you used to?
Our legal name (or its acronym) reflects everything we do – beyond “just” Chamber duties. We want to support businesses, provide visitor services, host events and promote community growth through an economic development lens. Using SCDA makes this clearer, but we understand it may take time to adjust and break old habits!