acc 2012 annual report
DESCRIPTION
ÂTRANSCRIPT
2012AnnuAlRepoRt
2 3
Tab PollockChair
the chairMessage froMtable of contents (click title to visit Page)
Today, 127 chambers of commerce belong to Alberta’s chamber federation, making us the largest business organization in our province. The map on page 8 displays the spread of this membership across Alberta and it is impressive.
Chambers of commerce serve their members in Alberta’s major cities, economic corridors, and rural communities. We should all be proud of the work we perform because each one of us is making Alberta a better place.
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is in regular contact with our provincial and federal representatives, who listen to us because we are known for offering well-reasoned, constructive advice. More and more, we find government seeking out our opinions before finalizing its own policy directions.
There are many facets to the Alberta Chambers of Commerce and we hope this report provides you with an overview of the work we accomplish on your behalf. Since we always want to improve, please let us know if there are ways we can better serve your needs.
It’s been a wonderful year at the Alberta Chambers of Commerce, and I’m proud to be a part of a federation that is a respected leader in Alberta and Canada.
Message from the chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Executive & Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Staff Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
chamber Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Provincial conference & Policy Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Regional Roundtables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
chambers of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Fall board Meeting & Deputy Ministers’ Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
advocacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Policy committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Political action Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Vision 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
alberta business awards of Distinction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
canadian chamber of commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
alberta chamber Executives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
MP Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Sponsorship opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
corporate Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Value added Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Management’s Discussion & analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Financials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
4 5
executive & staffThe Executive Committee of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce provides
governance for our non-profit organization. The members of the Executive
Committee are volunteers who have been active in their own community chambers
prior to our members electing them to ACC’s Executive. They serve for six years, a
significant commitment for these professionals and businesspeople.
The chamber movement is so successful in advocating the voice of business here in Alberta for two reasons! Our grassroots policy development done at the community level which gives us our strength, and because we are a respected voice for government on behalf of our 23,000 business members who bring solutions to improving Alberta as a whole!
I am proud to be a part of the chamber federation, in my 10 years serving as a volunteer I have made valuable friendships and relationships within the federation and within government.
Read Tab’s BiographyTab PollockChair
bRaD SEVERinChair Elect
It is incredibly energizing to be part of the chamber movement. Lots of groups claim to represent business, but I think what sets chambers apart is they are the voice of business speaking for the whole community. It is business representing each other, and the places where we live. The effort and enthusiasm of chambers, and businesspeople in them, is amazing to be part of.
Read Sean’s Biography
SEan ballaRDFirst Vice Chair2012-2013
executiveDoM MancuSoSecond Vice Chair
The chamber has provided me an opportunity to address issues that are important to the business community and advocate our concerns to all levels of government.
I appreciated and relished my time in Red Deer during the six years on the board, and this training and involvement has prepared me to work on provincial matters for our chamber members.
I enjoy discussing business to like-minded people and the opportunities are abundant while travelling the province within the federation.
Read Dom’s Biography
The network of professional chamber staff and business volunteers is a great place to learn more about what is happening in your local business community, across Alberta, and across Canada. At the same time, you make valuable business contacts and great friends. My investment of time has been rewarded over and over and in many ways.
Read Carman’s Biography
caRMan McnaRYTreasurer
Being on the Executive Committee these past five years has been a privilege and an extraordinarily rewarding experience. I have met, worked with and forged many new friendships with some incredibly talented and committed businesspeople. I have learned so much and look forward to following the chamber’s advocacy work into the future.
Read Tim’s Biography
TiM bolTonPast Chair
The chamber movement has provided me with the unique opportunity to be at the forefront of the political and economic concerns of the business community in Alberta. It has been incredibly rewarding to be able to interact with and act as an advocate for our 127 member chambers, representing more than 23,000 businesses in Alberta.
Read Brad’s Biography
“
“
“
“
“
“” ”
””
”
”
6 7
staffIt’s a pleasure serving as President and CEO of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce. The ACC derives its advocacy power from the strength of our community chambers. The volunteers and staff of the community chambers are the true force behind the Alberta Chambers of Commerce.
Read Ken’s Biography
kEn koblYPresident and CEO
2012-2013
iRVEn SniDERManager, Chamber Services & Administration
alliSon RobERgEManager, Events
TERRi kEMballManager, Policy & Communications
PEggY laPinSkYCoordinator, Business & Administrative Services
alberta chaMbers of coMMerce organizational chart“”
98
Edmonton
Red Deer
Calgary
Lethbridge
Medicine Hat
Grand Prairie
Fort McMurray
63
63
88
58
58
88
88
35
35
35
64
02
02
02
02
55
02
02
21
21
21
21
56
56
53
5353
20
56
02A
01A
12X
02
22
22
22
54
22
22
23
24
22
25
36
36
36
27
27
09
09
61
03
03
04
62
0303
03
05
02
02
06
01
01
01
01
23
07
01
40
08
09
0972
09
1001
33
3332
32
1616 16
16
16
16
36
36
36
36
15
45
4545
28
28
41
41
41
55
55
36
63
02
18
63
44
44
3343
43
28
02
49
49
49
43
4359
40
40
47
93
11
11
12
11
12
12
12
13
1313
14
14
39
26
14
12
41
41
41
41
48
50
65
58
73
8555
44
97
51
53
61
63
41 43 121
36
11
89
67
10 03
32
104
92
0694
87
1093895
20
107 82
35
2129
115
11356
370930
0196
25
17
15
3481
60
80
23
47
31
88
122
19
12791
70 24
123
46
13
78
86
110
120
10622
07
16
62
02
05124
111
69 93
100 119
117
114
68
18
64 9457
27
90
84
28
122
11874 71
75
42103
7252
12
66
14
04
26
39
49
9840
33
112
125
79
102
101105
83
76
0854
4577
59
99
116
108
126
01 Airdrie
02 Alberta Beach
03 Alix
04 Athabasca
05 Barrhead
06 Bashaw
07 Bassano
08 Beaverlodge
09 Beiseker
10 Blackfalds
11 Bluffton
12 Bonnyville
13 Bow Island
14 Boyle
15 Bragg Creek
16 Brooks
17 Calgary
18 Camrose
19 Cardston
20 Caroline
21 Carstairs
22 Chestermere
23 Claresholm
24 Coaldale
25 Cochrane
26 Cold Lake
27 Consort
28 Coronation
29 Cremona/Water Valley
30 Crossfield
31 Crowsnest Pass
32 Delburne
33 Devon
34 Diamond Valley
35 Didsbury
36 Drayton Valley
37 Drumheller
38 Eckville
39 Edgerton
40 Edmonton
41 Edson
42 Elk Point
43 Evansburg-Entwistle
44 Fairview
45 Falher
46 Foremost
47 Fort Macleod
48 Fort McMurray
49 Fort Saskatchewan
50 Fort Vermilion
51 Fox Creek
52 Glendon
53 Grande Cache
54 Grande Prairie
55 Grimshaw
56 Hanna
57 Hardisty
58 High Level
59 High Prairie
60 High River
61 Hinton
62 Innisfail
63 Jasper
64 Killam
65 La Crete
66 Lac La Biche
67 Lacombe
68 Leduc
69 Legal
70 Lethbridge
71 Lloydminster
72 Mallaig
73 Manning
74 Mannville
75 Marwayne
76 Mayerthorpe
77 McLennan
78 Medicine Hat
79 Morinville
80 Nanton
81 Okotoks
82 Olds
83 Onoway
84 Oyen
85 Peace River
86 Picture Butte
87 Pigeon Lake
88 Pincher Creek
89 Ponoka
90 Provost
91 Raymond
92 Red Deer
93 Redwater
94 Rimbey
95 Rocky Mountain House
96 Rocky View
97 Sexsmith
98 Sherwood Park
99 Slave Lake
100 Smoky Lake
101 Spruce Grove
102 St. Albert
103 St. Paul
104 Stettler
105 Stony Plain
106 Strathmore
107 Sundre
108 Swan Hills
109 Sylvan Lake
110 Taber
111 Thorhild
112 Thorsby
113 Three Hills
114 Tofield
115 Trochu
116 Valleyview
117 Vegreville
118 Vermilion
119 Vilna
120 Vulcan
121 Wabamun
122 Wainwright
123 Warner
124 Westlock
125 Wetaskiwin
126 Whitecourt
127 Magrath
2012 chaMber MeMbers
10 11
Every year members of our federation gather in a different Alberta community for three days of meetings, learning and networking.
Highlights of the 2012 Provincial Conference in Sherwood Park include:
» Representatives from 35 chambers attended.
» Approximately 200 people came to the opening reception.
» Guest speakers included Perrin Beatty, President & CEO of the Canadian Chamber, and Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver.
» The Sherwood Park & District Chamber brought in Trooper and Kim Mitchell for an exclusive Fun Night concert.
» More than 100 delegates at the policy session. » 29 policies debated and 28 approved. » Ron Chapman guided the process for the 31st time.
» We welcomed Tab Pollock of Grande Prairie as incoming Chair.
» We said farewell to Kay Taylor of Medicine Hat, who stepped off the Executive Committee after six years.
Provincial conference& Policy session
The Sherwood Park Chamber brought in Trooper and Kim Mitchell for a blast-to-the-past exclusive concert.
Delegates vote at the 2012 Policy Session, where 28 policies were approved.
Grande Prairie’s Rob Neil speaks on a policy during the session.
Past Chair Kay Taylor is recognized for her years on ACC’s Executive Committee.
74th Provincial conference & Policy session in sherwood Park
Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver came to Alberta’s Industrial Heartland to address delegates.
Dom Mancuso and Ron Chapman share a moment at the Chair’s Dinner.
Sherwood Park’s Peter Court hands over the Chamber Pot to Drumheller’s Ed Mah, whose chamber is hosting the 2013 conference.
It was the 31st time Ron Chapman has moderated our policy session, and he was as instructive and charming as ever.
12 13
Crystal Husch of Crowsnest Pass and Dixie McCarley of Coaldale during the Lethbridge Roundtable
The Airdrie Regional Roundtable included an engaging, free-ranging discussion.
Catherine Bais and Debbie Klingbeil of Sylvan Lake share a laugh at the Wetaskiwin Roundtable.
ACC’s Regional Roundtables give us the opportunity to meet chamber staff and representatives in communities all over Alberta. We host six of these informal functions each year to bring chambers together for an afternoon of idea sharing and problem solving.
This year, we held Regional Roundtables in Airdrie, Elk Point, Lethbridge, Peace River, Whitecourt and Wetaskiwin. In total, 95 representatives from 54 chambers (68 per cent of the 127 chambers in our federation) attended one of the six events.
When we travel to your communities for the roundtables, the Alberta Chambers gains an understanding of the challenges and successes you are experiencing. This information allows us to serve you better.
Chamber representatives tell us that they enjoy the roundtables because the topics for the wide-ranging discussions provide a valuable flow of information.
Some of the common discussion topics in 2012 were:
» Board recruitment
» Membership engagement
» Local advocacy
» Economic development
» Board dynamics
» Ideas for luncheon speakers
» Communications/social media
roundtables
ACC travelled more than 1,700 km to host each of the six Regional Roundtables in 2012.
regional
14 15
hanna & district chaMber of coMMerce 51 to 100 MeMbersThe Hanna & District Chamber of Commerce has initiated a successful program to boost its community’s image. Part of the program involves organizing volunteer labour to paint downtown businesses. The program also showcases local businesses in a half-page ad in the local newspaper.
These revitalization efforts are paying off for the chamber as its membership increased by 10 in 2011. Almost one-third of all businesses in town belong to the chamber.
The Hanna Chamber is working hard to keep people shopping at home. In an effort to underline the commitment of local businesses to their community, a front page Shopping Local is Priceless advertisement sets out the amount of money chamber members donate versus big box stores. The figure is a surprising one with members in this southeastern town donating $282,451 versus $0 for big box stores.
The chamber also has a bursary program for high school grads planning to study commerce or business.
cold lake regional chaMber of coMMerce101 to 300 MeMbers There’s no doubt about it – the Cold Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce had a great 2011.
Participation at its events grew significantly, with the chamber setting record attendance for its Business of the Year Awards and trade show. Members of the public also flock to its popular home and leisure show.
The chamber represents a growing area. Economic growth, however, creates its own set of pressures, such as a demand to ensure citizens have access to good health care. To ensure this issue is addressed, the chamber is involved in an award-winning program to attract physicians and other health professionals. Another initiative has raised an amazing $300,000 for a CT scanner for its hospital.
Add in a new electronic reader board sign and support for young entrepreneurs and you can see why the Cold Lake Chamber is on an upward climb.
fox creek chaMber of coMMerceuP to 50 MeMbersThe Fox Creek Chamber of Commerce is a lynchpin in its town.
The chamber operates a Visitor Information Centre along the busy highway that runs through its town. It also organizes its town’s Canada Day celebrations, which turned a profit last year, and it partners with other organizations to help ensure the success of other community events.
It’s not all fun and games, though. In 2011 the Fox Creek Chamber brought in speakers to address important issues, such as the Northern Gateway Pipelines Project and Greyhound Canada’s bus service.
Not surprisingly, this chamber had an eight-per-cent membership increase in 2011. Any more success and it will jump into a higher membership category.
The Fox Creek Chamber also nurtures a fun personality with a celebrated bear rug named Grizzly Bob, and it’s considering building the world’s largest red fox as an attraction for its community.
chaMbers of the year
ACC’s Brad Severin, left, congratulates Hanna’s Harlan Boss.
ACC’s Tab Pollock, left, congratulates Rene Fournier and Mylene English of the Fox Creek Chamber.
Sherri Bohme of Cold Lake accepts the award from ACC’s Dom Mancuso.
From left, ACC’s Kay Taylor congratulates the Red Deer Chamber, represented by Tim Creedon, Danielle Klooster and Maureen McMurtrie.
red deer chaMber More than 300 MeMbersThe Red Deer Chamber of the Commerce keeps evolving to meet the needs of its 900 members.
The chamber is active on every front. It participates in all ACC events, and it nurtures strong relationships in its community, around its region and throughout the province. It’s also recognized as an effective advocate for its business community at the municipal, provincial and federal levels. Regional economic development is another thrust of this visionary organization.
Red Deer has developed one of the strongest policy development processes in Alberta. Other chambers turn to it for guidance and assistance in policy and advocacy work.
Providing the kind of leadership that obtains these kinds of great results takes a dedicated staff and board of directors.
This past year was an especially busy one for Red Deer, and 2012 is proving just as hectic as it serves a diverse business community that’s firing on all cylinders.
16 17
Our annual Fall Board Meeting is busy all-day event featuring education sessions, ACC’s Fall Board Meeting, and the Alberta Rural Community Physician Attraction and Retention Award.
The event is topped off with our guests dining with the top echelon of Alberta’s public service.
Highlights of this year’s event:
» Representation from 27 chambers.
» 250 people sat down to dinner at the Sutton Place Hotel.
» A top official, either the deputy minister and/or assistant deputy minister, attended from each of Alberta’s 18 provincial departments. The heads of most of Alberta’ agencies also attended the dinner.
» The Brooks/County of Newell Physician Attraction and Retention Committee was the recipient of the 2012 Alberta Rural Community Physician Attraction and Retention Award.
» All of our out-of-town guests had safe travels home in Wednesday’s snowstorm.
fall board Meeting& dePuty Ministers’ dinner
Lynn Carolei of St. Albert poses a question in the Q&A session of the Deputy Ministers’ Dinner.
ACC Chair Tab Pollock welcomes our guests.
Brooks Chambers’ Tracy Acorn accepts the 2012 Alberta Rural Community Physician Attraction and Retention Award on behalf of her community.
Sherwood Park’s Todd Banks, Penny Jennings and Michael Becher at the reception.
Our Fall Board Meeting and Political Action Day seem to generate snowstorms, causing us a lot of worry for our guest’s safety as they travel to and from Edmonton from all over Alberta.
18 19
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce advocates to our provincial and federal governments on behalf of our federation.
Our advocacy is based on the policies developed by individual chambers and approved by our federation at our annual policy session. Policies stay active for three years, unless they are acted upon.
Link to policies
ACC’s Executive Committee discusses our policies during meetings with ministers and other elected officials. President and CEO Ken Kobly represents ACC on numerous government committees and participates in consultations. We also make regular submissions to government and meet with other government officials.
Change to Some of the advocacy activities and key issues in 2012 were:
» Provincial budget submission and meeting with Alberta’s finance minister.
» Federal budget submission and presentation to the Standing Committee on Finance in Ottawa.
» Meetings with:
•FinanceMinisterRonLiepert
•SustainableResourcesMinisterFrankOberle
•RonaAmbrose,MinisterofPublicWorks
•InternationalRelationsMinisterCalDallas
•InfrastructureMinisterWayneDrysdale
•HumanServicesMinisterDaveHancock
•TransportationMinisterRicMcIver
advocacy » Submissions included government consultations on electricity
transmission/costs, property rights, economy, and Alberta’s fiscal framework.
» Letters to most provincial ministers with policies pertinent to their ministries, the same with federal ministers. All letters and responses are available on our website.
» Significant continuing issues:
•AddressinglabourshortagesthroughimprovingCanada’simmigration system, Northern Gateway pipelines, Wild Horse border crossing, and Alberta’s fiscal policies.
•TheAlbertaChamberswasakeypartnerintheAlbertaCoalitionfor Action on Labour Shortages.
Policy successes in 2012: » Federal Skilled Trades Program
» Canadian Experience Class
» Fair Rail Freight Service Act
» Consult with Business on Road Projects
» Highway 63 twinning
» Investing in infrastructure to ensure Alberta’s long-term economic future
» Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act
» Single regulator for oil and gas industry
» Fast-tracking temporary foreign workers in Alberta
» Streamlining environmental assessment of resource projects
» Wild Horse border crossing – extended hours matched with U.S. 8 – 9 April to October
» Disaster recovery program
The chambers of commerce provide an effective forum to develop important recommendations for actions to support a vibrant and sustainable business community, and to communicate those recommendations directly to the people with the power to implement them.
>> Carman McNary, ACC Treasurer
From left, Ken Kobly, Brad Severin, Minister Cal Dallas and Tab Pollock.
MP James Rajotte and Brad Severin
Minister Dave Hancock
Brad Severin and Ken Kobly on Parliament Hill.
“”
20 21
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce’s Policy Committee meets regularly via teleconference to discuss issues affecting business, discuss advocacy activities, and facilitate policy development.
ACC encourages every chamber to consider appointing a representative to the Policy Committee because the committee’s effectiveness expands with its membership. While the Policy Committee generally works on a consensus basis, chambers hold voting privileges, which are exercised when situations arise that require a vote.
ACC is always pleased with the level of chamber interest in the Policy Committee. For 2012/13, the committee has 65 representatives from 37 chambers.
» Labour force optimization and development
» Economic development and competitiveness
» Land and resource management
» Improving access to health services
The committee meets regularly through conference calls until the end of March, and then gathers for an in-person meeting the day before the annual policy session.
Many meetings include roundtables, which see chambers discuss their local advocacy efforts, the economic situation in their region, and emerging concerns in their communities.
The committee also meets as required when ACC needs to obtain feedback and direction on emerging issues not addressed by existing policy.
As the February policy submission deadline approaches, participating in the committee allows chambers to work together to develop policies of common interest.
Policy coMMitteeChambers submit proposed policies to ACC in late February and the Policy Committee determines whether they meet the required criteria for presentation at ACC’s Provincial Conference and Policy Session in May.
ACC appreciates chambers’ interest in participating in the Policy Committee because this group’s work provides us with the ability to recognize and react to issues facing Alberta’s business community.
The 2012/13 Policy Chair is Brad Severin of Sherwood Park, who chaired the Edmonton Chamber Finance Committee for many years.
ACC Policy Chair Brad Severin
22 23
At Political Action Day 2012, we once again hosted the leaders of Alberta’s opposition parties during the day and Premier Redford and members of her government caucus in the evening.
Here are some highlights of the event:
» The daytime function sold out, with 100 people coming to hear the party leaders speak and pose questions to them. Danielle Smith of the Wildrose Party, Brian Mason of the NDP and Glenn Taylor the Alberta Party all spoke at separate sessions, with Liberal Leader Raj Sherman our luncheon speaker.
» A one-hour media panel followed the leaders, with the Edmonton Journal’s Graham Thomson and Insight into Government’s Mark Lisac.
» The evening saw 270 guests arrive for a reception and the MLA Dinner. Premier Redford, approximately half of her cabinet, and many MLAs visited before and during dinner with representatives from 28 chambers, as well as corporate members and other guests.
» After dinner, Premier Redford gave a speech and then kicked off a question-and-answer session that ran almost 1.5 hours.
» Topics for the Q & A included municipal funding, labour, the cost of electricity, the shortage of doctors, economic development, Aboriginal issues, the Wild Horse border crossing, the Northern Gateway pipeline, and improving immigration as a means of dealing with the shortage of labour.
Political Action Day 2012 was the first with Premier Alison Redford.
Political action day
NDP Leader Brian Mason speaks.
ACC’s Ken Kobly welcomes Premier Alison Redford to the MLA Dinner.
Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith addresses guests.
24 25
Small business award of Distinction
Sponsored by the Chartered Accountants of Alberta
Xtreme Hot oil Services – Hinton
aboriginal Relations – best Practice award of Distinction
Sponsored by Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
PTi group – Edmonton
Eagle Feather business award of Distinction
Sponsored by Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
The Sawridge group of companies – Edmonton
aboriginal Woman Entrepreneur award of Distinction
Sponsored by Intergovernmental, International and Aboriginal Relations
isabell Ringenoldus, TaWS Security ltd . – Fort McMurray
Employer of Persons with Disabilities award of Distinction
Sponsored by Alberta Human Services
long View Systems – calgary
Employer of Youth award of Distinction
Sponsored by Alberta Human Services
abc benefits corporation (alberta blue cross) – Edmonton
vision 2020The Alberta Chambers of Commerce has formed a successful partnership with the Certified General Accountants Association of Alberta (CGA) called Vision 2020, a multi-year, multi-phase research project which looks at important aspects of our province’s long-term future.
In 2013 we will release Vision 2020 Phase 5, which explores Alberta’s system of taxation.
Our Vision 2020 research series includes four previous reports:
Phase 1: Demographic Impacts on Alberta’s Provincial Budget (2004) studies demographic trends, such as Alberta’s aging population, rural to urban migration, as well as spending vulnerability due to increasing health and education costs.
Phase 2: Sustainability for Alberta’s Municipalities (2005) explores the challenges of municipalities stressed by service and infrastructure burdens.
Phase 3: Saving for the Future Alberta Advantage (2006) sends a strong message about our province’s failure to save a significant portion of our non-renewable resource revenues to help stabilize government finances for future generations of Albertans.
Phase 4: Renewing Alberta’s Energy Industry at Home and Abroad (2011) highlights the value Alberta’s energy sector brings in both jobs and revenues to the whole country.
As proven time and again, Vision 2020 is a visionary project which has placed ACC and CGA as credible, proactive partners in public policy discussions. We are pleased to continue this tradition.
All reports are available online at www.albertavision2020.ca
Vision 2020 is influential. The provincial government has implemented policies to ensure municipalities have stable, predictable funding (Phase 2), and it has begun to save a portion of Alberta’s non-renewable resource revenues (Phase 3). It is also working hard to emphasize the value of our energy sector to our whole country (Phase 5).
alberta business awards of distinction
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce presented the 21st Alberta Business Awards of Distinction on March 4 in Edmonton. More than 400 guests joined us for the gala event.
The winner of the 2012 Premier’s award of Distinction, the evening’s most prestigious honour, was abc benefits corporation (alberta blue cross).
The following are the other nine recipients:
The Hon. Cal Dallas, once the executive director of the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, presented two awards on behalf of the province, which is a major sponsor of our awards program.
Marketing award of Distinction
Sponsored by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce
icon Stone & Tile – calgary
Youth Entrepreneur award of Distinction
Sponsored by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce
Jodie McFadzen, Penzen ltd – St . albert
Export award of Distinction
Sponsored by Alberta Chambers of Commerce
upside Software – Edmonton
www.abbusinessawards.com
26 27
The Alberta Chamber Executives (ACE) is an association of chamber staff from across the province. Through membership in ACE, chamber professionals are provided with opportunities to share ideas and management strategies.
ACE members gather every year for a professional development summit where they participate in discussions and partake in professional development sessions. The Brooks Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2012 ACE Summit from July 11 to 13. Kyle Sexton of Salem, Oregon, held superb sessions geared specifically to chamber managers on social media, branding and tiered membership.
While the ACE Summit is the most comprehensive gathering of chamber professionals, the organization also holds meetings in conjunction with the Alberta Chambers’ events.
At the Chair’s Dinner during our provincial conference, ACE presents an annual award to a member chosen by their peers. In 2012, there were two recipients of the ACE Executive of the Year Award:
Lisa Kowalchuk, executive director of the Medicine Hat Chambers of Commerce, is admired as a hardworking executive director who is a wonderful communicator and an especially fine advocate for her region.
Tim Creedon, executive director of the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, is known for providing visionary leadership in his chamber and throughout his region. He has excellent listening skills and an articulate manner.
Both Tim and Lisa have displayed tremendous commitment to ACE. Tim stepped into the president’s position in 2012, with Lisa preparing to follow him in July 2013.
alberta chaMber executives canadian chaMberAlberta was proud to have the largest provincial delegation at the Canadian Chamber’s AGM 2012, which was held from September 22 to 24 in Hamilton, Ontario.
Here are some highlights of the event:
» With chambers either sending 51 delegates or providing ACC with their proxies, Alberta was able to carry the highest number of votes at the policy session: Alberta – 103, Ontario – 71, B.C. – 55, Quebec – 16, Saskatchewan – 15, Atlantic Region – 15, Manitoba – 9, N.W.T. – 5, Yukon – 1, Nunavut – 1.
» Chambers in Alberta sponsored or co-sponsored 18 of the 58 resolutions presented the policy session.
•AllbutoneofAlberta’spolicieswasapprovedanditonlywentdown to defeat after a spirited debate.
•SupportfortheNorthernGatewayPipelinesProject,aCanadianenergy strategy, and improvements to foreign worker programs were among the Alberta policies adopted by the national federation.
» Alberta’s caucus displayed tremendous depth and knowledge throughout the two-day session. Our diplomatic, articulate delegates provided strong leadership on the floor and in pre-conference discussions with other chambers.
www.chamber.ca
The 2013 AGM is in Kelowna, offering a nearby location for chambers wishing to determine the value of participating in the national conference.
Tim Creedon of Red Deer and Lisa Kowalchuk of Medicine Hat, co-winners of the Alberta Chamber Executive of the Year Award.
Two Albertans at the AGM – Ron Chapman, policy session moderator, and ACC’s Chair, Tab Pollock
Alberta’s delegation votes. Once again, Alberta carried the highest number of votes at the AGM.
Alberta Chamber Executives at their ACE Summit in Brooks in July.
28 29
alberta business awards of Distinction
The most influential business awards in the province are presented annually by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce. Recognizing excellence in Alberta’s business community, the awards are attended by approximately 400 business leaders. The highlight of the gala is the presentation of the Premier’s Award of Distinction.
Political action Day
The leaders of Alberta’s opposition parties attend Political Action Day during the daytime portion of the event to speak to our guests and answer questions. The evening includes a networking opportunity with members of the provincial government caucus during a cocktail reception and dinner. This function offers an excellent opportunity to meet one-on-one with key government leaders.
On November 15, 170 guests joined us for our 2012 MP Dinner in Edmonton. These evening functions bring members of the federal government caucus together with our chamber members and other guests, who dine with the Alberta MPs and then participate in a Q&A.
Highlights of the evening included:
» 19 chambers were represented.
» Eight of Alberta’s MPs took time out of their busy Remembrance Day week to attend the dinner.
» Topics for the question-and-answer session ranged from the global economy’s effect on our nation’s fiscal situation, to solutions for Alberta’s labour shortage, and strategies for developing our energy resources.
» MP Blaine Calkins, the Alberta Caucus Chair, moderated the Q&A.
Our MPs are patterned after our long-running MLA and Deputy Ministers’ Dinners.
MP dinner sPonsorshiP oPPortunitiesProvincial conference & Policy Session
Our three-day conference sees chamber representatives gather for education sessions, networking opportunities, our Annual General Meeting, and the annual policy session. The conference concludes with the Chair’s Dinner, where we present the Chamber of the Year Awards.
Fall board Meeting and Deputy Ministers’ Dinner
This full-day function begins with education sessions with knowledgeable and respected experts. The Deputy Ministers’ Dinner in the evening provides an opportunity to network with the provincial officials who lead Alberta’s ministries.
MP Dinners
These dinners offer our guests an opportunity to discuss matters of national importance with members of the federal government’s Alberta caucus.
The Alberta Chambers of Commerce hosts a variety of events each year in order to raise the profile of Alberta business in our province and across Canada. These functions include:
MPs Rob Merrifield and Blaine Calkins during the Q&A.
ACC’s Carman McNary poses a question of the MPs.
Alberta Caucus Chair Blaine Calkins facilitates the Q&A session.
30 31
value addedcorPorate MeMbersAdtel Inc.
Agriculture Financial Services Corporation
Alberta Chamber of Resources
Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association
Alberta Pacific Forest Industries Inc.
Alberta Real Estate Association
Alberta Road Builders and Heavy Construction Association
Alberta School Boards Association
Alberta Urban Municipalities Association
Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association
AltaSteel
APEGA (The Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of Alberta)
ATB Financial
ATCO Electric
ATCO Gas
Athabasca University
AVAC Ltd.
Bennett Jones Verchere LLP
Border Paving Ltd.
Building Trades of Alberta
The Business Link – Business Service Centre
Canadian Home Builders’ Association of Alberta
Canadian National Railway
Cenovus Energy Inc.
Certified General Accountants Association of Alberta
Certified Management Accountants of Alberta
Chevron Canada Resources
City of Edmonton
Collette Vacations
Concordia University College of Alberta
Constant Contact
Coril Holdings Ltd.
Credit Union Alberta Central
Davies Park
Dentons Canada
DeVry Institute of Technology
Doyle & Co.
Duncan Sabine Collyer Partners LLP
Earth Tech Canada Inc. (INSTIT)
Edmonton International Airport
EnCana Corporation
EPCOR
The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Foresight Canada
Fraser Milner Casgrain
Graymont Western Canada Inc.
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta
Lehigh Hanson Materials Limited
Mac’s Convenience Stores Inc.
Manulife Financial
McLennan Ross LLP
NAIT
Oxford Properties Group
Pacrim Hospitality
Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta
Purolator Courier Ltd.
RBC Financial Group
Rieger McIntyre Chartered Accountants
Robinson Insurance Brokers Ltd.
The Alberta Rural Physician Action Plan
ScotiaBank
Servus Credit Union
SMS Equipment
SOCAN
Stantec Consulting Ltd.
Suncor Energy
Syncrude Canada Ltd.
TELUS Corporation
TransCanada Pipelines
Western Management Consultants
Westin Hotel Edmonton
Weyerhaeuser Canada Ltd.
Willoughby Insurance Brokerage Corporation
Xerox Canada
Yardstick Technologies
ZCL Composites Inc.
RECITE AFFINITY PROGRAMRecite Conferencing is delighted to o�er all Chamber of Commerce members Audio, Web and Video Conferencing and Web Casting services. Members will receive a rate of 5.0¢ / min. for Audio Conferencing, which is 45% below the industry average. Recite will also do a service audit to review your conferencing usage at no charge. They can recommend how to change the existing services you’re using or provide you with many options from their extensive solution suite.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE GROUP INSURANCEThe Chambers Group Insurance Plan covers businesses with up to 50 employees. It’s open to all businesses and o�ers a full range of benefits including coverage normally reserved for “big business.” With outstanding service and assistance, the Chambers Group Insurance Plan will tailor a benefit program to suit your needs.
ATB FINANCIAL MERCHANT DISCOUNT RATESPreferred electronic merchant discount rates for MasterCard and VISA:
- 1.59% Visa & 1.64% Mastercard regardless of ticket size - Interac fee of $0.06 for each debit transaction
Terminal fee of $33.00/month, monthly fee of $5.00 and free activation fee.
CHAMBERS VISA & MASTERCARD PROCESSINGVersaPay o�ers all members preferential rates on VISA, MasterCard and INTERAC processing. Canadian founded and operated, VersaPay provides local service and support combined with industry-leading expertise with secure and reliable processing networks.
- 1.59 – 1.64% on VISA & MasterCard plus $0.15/transaction - $0.05/transaction Interac Direct Debit payments - Buy, rent or lease your POS terminal starting at $22.99/month
PAYWORKS PAYROLL SERVICEPayworks would like to introduce to our Chambers and their members an easier way to handle their payroll. Payworks has created an innovative payroll service by rolling the best qualities of software packages, service bureaus and the power of the Internet into one system. Payworks has also integrated Chambers Group Insurance Administration through their partnership with the Johnston Group.
ESSO FLEET DISCOUNT PROGRAMESSO o�ers all members a $0.035/litre discount on fuel (gas or diesel) purchased on your ESSO Fleet Credit Card. Fleet meaning 1 or more vehicles. No minimums apply.
ADTEL ON-HOLD SERVICESSpecial packages are o�ered to Chambers of Commerce members for customized on-hold services for your business.
JOHNSON INC. HOME & AUTO INSURANCE PROGRAMJohnson Inc. o�ers chamber members Home and Auto insurance discounts. Johnson will develop a comprehensive group program tailor made for you and your sta� based on 10% o� best rates. Quotes available
MeMbershiP oPPortunities!
www.abchamber.ca/corporate-members
32 33
PACRIM PREFERRED PROGRAMThe Pacrim Preferred Program o�ers business and leisure travelers a guaranteed discount of 15% o� Best Available Rates(BAR) on each of their 60 hotels across Canada and the USA. Pacrim prides themselves on their award-winning customer service, and being able to o�er all the features you need to enjoy a great and memorable stay. Discount applies regardless of season or location but not in combination with other discounts. Rates based on standard rooms.
HUSKY/MOHAWK DISCOUNT PROGRAMHusky is very pleased to present a Group Plan commercial credit card program to all Chambers of Commerce members. Receive a $0.02/litre discount with no minimum volume requirements at any Husky/Mohawk location. Other benefits include saving time, getting great service and enjoying quality products while working with a great business partner. Canadian owned!
PETRO CANADA DISCOUNT PROGRAMRealize significant savings, convenience, control and security. Discounts of $0.02/litre on all grades of gas and diesel, 20% discount on car washes and 3% discount on vehicle propane. Petro-Canada also introduces their Pre-Paid Card, available in denominations of $10, $25, $50 and $100. A minimum of 200 litres/month must be purchased to qualify for this discount.
PUROLATOR DISCOUNT PROGRAMThe Purolator volume discount program can save you up to 30% every time you use their services.
TD MERCHANT DISCOUNT RATE(CANADIAN CHAMBER PROGRAM)Discount rates are o�ered through the Canadian Chamber of 1.59% VISA rate, 1.64% MasterCard rate and $0.069/transaction Interac rate (regardless of volume of business).
TD o�ers the TD Business, Personal and Wealth Management Program, which can be used in 3 di�erent ways. As a business, as an individual and/or as an employer.
MONEX GROUP PROGRAMMONEX Group is pleased to o�er the Alberta Chambers of Commerce members our Preferred Pricing Program. Starting from 1.59% on Visa & Mastercard rates for retail sales, starting from 1.54% for grocery sales and starting from 1.39% for gas station sales. Debit Card at $0.06 / transaction. Purchase or Lease-to-own your own terminal with life time warranty. Virtual Terminals also available. Other programs are also available, Automated Teller/Bank Machines and Gift Card Program.
CONSTANT CONTACTSign up for Constant Contact through your local Chamber of Commerce and get a discount of up to 25%, even if you’re already a Constant Contact customer. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive savings on their entire suite of online tools, including: Email Marketing, Social; Media Campaigns, Event Marketing and Online Surveys. Sign up online at www.ConstantContact.com/chambermembers
great oPPortunities to save Money through your chaMber MeMbershiP
PACRIM PREFERRED PROGRAMThe Pacrim Preferred Program o�ers business and leisure travelers a guaranteed discount of 15% o� Best Available Rates(BAR) on each of their 60 hotels across Canada and the USA. Pacrim prides themselves on their award-winning customer service, and being able to o�er all the features you need to enjoy a great and memorable stay. Discount applies regardless of season or location but not in combination with other discounts. Rates based on standard rooms.
HUSKY/MOHAWK DISCOUNT PROGRAMHusky is very pleased to present a Group Plan commercial credit card program to all Chambers of Commerce members. Receive a $0.02/litre discount with no minimum volume requirements at any Husky/Mohawk location. Other benefits include saving time, getting great service and enjoying quality products while working with a great business partner. Canadian owned!
PETRO CANADA DISCOUNT PROGRAMRealize significant savings, convenience, control and security. Discounts of $0.02/litre on all grades of gas and diesel, 20% discount on car washes and 3% discount on vehicle propane. Petro-Canada also introduces their Pre-Paid Card, available in denominations of $10, $25, $50 and $100. A minimum of 200 litres/month must be purchased to qualify for this discount.
PUROLATOR DISCOUNT PROGRAMThe Purolator volume discount program can save you up to 30% every time you use their services.
TD MERCHANT DISCOUNT RATE(CANADIAN CHAMBER PROGRAM)Discount rates are o�ered through the Canadian Chamber of 1.59% VISA rate, 1.64% MasterCard rate and $0.069/transaction Interac rate (regardless of volume of business).
TD o�ers the TD Business, Personal and Wealth Management Program, which can be used in 3 di�erent ways. As a business, as an individual and/or as an employer.
MONEX GROUP PROGRAMMONEX Group is pleased to o�er the Alberta Chambers of Commerce members our Preferred Pricing Program. Starting from 1.59% on Visa & Mastercard rates for retail sales, starting from 1.54% for grocery sales and starting from 1.39% for gas station sales. Debit Card at $0.06 / transaction. Purchase or Lease-to-own your own terminal with life time warranty. Virtual Terminals also available. Other programs are also available, Automated Teller/Bank Machines and Gift Card Program.
CONSTANT CONTACTSign up for Constant Contact through your local Chamber of Commerce and get a discount of up to 25%, even if you’re already a Constant Contact customer. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive savings on their entire suite of online tools, including: Email Marketing, Social; Media Campaigns, Event Marketing and Online Surveys. Sign up online at www.ConstantContact.com/chambermembers
RECITE AFFINITY PROGRAMRecite Conferencing is delighted to o�er all Chamber of Commerce members Audio, Web and Video Conferencing and Web Casting services. Members will receive a rate of 5.0¢ / min. for Audio Conferencing, which is 45% below the industry average. Recite will also do a service audit to review your conferencing usage at no charge. They can recommend how to change the existing services you’re using or provide you with many options from their extensive solution suite.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE GROUP INSURANCEThe Chambers Group Insurance Plan covers businesses with up to 50 employees. It’s open to all businesses and o�ers a full range of benefits including coverage normally reserved for “big business.” With outstanding service and assistance, the Chambers Group Insurance Plan will tailor a benefit program to suit your needs.
ATB FINANCIAL MERCHANT DISCOUNT RATESPreferred electronic merchant discount rates for MasterCard and VISA:
- 1.59% Visa & 1.64% Mastercard regardless of ticket size - Interac fee of $0.06 for each debit transaction
Terminal fee of $33.00/month, monthly fee of $5.00 and free activation fee.
CHAMBERS VISA & MASTERCARD PROCESSINGVersaPay o�ers all members preferential rates on VISA, MasterCard and INTERAC processing. Canadian founded and operated, VersaPay provides local service and support combined with industry-leading expertise with secure and reliable processing networks.
- 1.59 – 1.64% on VISA & MasterCard plus $0.15/transaction - $0.05/transaction Interac Direct Debit payments - Buy, rent or lease your POS terminal starting at $22.99/month
PAYWORKS PAYROLL SERVICEPayworks would like to introduce to our Chambers and their members an easier way to handle their payroll. Payworks has created an innovative payroll service by rolling the best qualities of software packages, service bureaus and the power of the Internet into one system. Payworks has also integrated Chambers Group Insurance Administration through their partnership with the Johnston Group.
ESSO FLEET DISCOUNT PROGRAMESSO o�ers all members a $0.035/litre discount on fuel (gas or diesel) purchased on your ESSO Fleet Credit Card. Fleet meaning 1 or more vehicles. No minimums apply.
ADTEL ON-HOLD SERVICESSpecial packages are o�ered to Chambers of Commerce members for customized on-hold services for your business.
JOHNSON INC. HOME & AUTO INSURANCE PROGRAMJohnson Inc. o�ers chamber members Home and Auto insurance discounts. Johnson will develop a comprehensive group program tailor made for you and your sta� based on 10% o� best rates. Quotes available
value addedMeMbershiP oPPortunities!
www.abchamber.ca/membership-benefits-2/value-added-programs
34 35
acc overview, Mission & objectives, governance and strategyACC is a federation of 127 community chambers of commerce, which in turn represent approximately 23,000 businesses in Alberta. In addition, ACC also has 75 corporate members which are also members of a community chamber. ACC is a not-for-profit, self-governing organization incorporated under the Societies Act of Alberta.
MissionThe Alberta Chambers of Commerce, a federation of com-munity chambers, is the advocate for Alberta business.
ACC exists to provide support to our federation of chambers. ACC has at least one community chamber in each federal and provincial electoral riding. These facts, coupled with the reality that the policies we advocate for are grassroots-driven, permit us to be the premier advocate for business in Alberta.
ManageMent’s discussion& analysis The following is a discussion of the strategic plan and 2013 outlook, as well as the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2012, for ACC. ACC reports its financial results under Canadian accounting standards for not for profit organizations.
what we stand for » Professionalism
» Honesty, trust and integrity
» Teamwork and mutual respect
» Achievement and continuous self-improvement
» Respect and dignity
» Diversity
» Transparency
key PerforMance driversAs an organization operating in the not-for-profit sector, ACC is not driven solely by financial results, although financial indicators are relied upon to ensure the resources entrusted to it are used in an efficient and appropriate manner. Several non-financial indicators are also used and play a significant role in what drives the organization and how performance is gauged. ACC annually reviews, through a review of its strategic plan, its deliverables and priorities to ensure these continue to be well-aligned with its mandate. Ensuring ACC accomplishes what it sets out to do is one of its most important performance indicators. Specific deliverables are identified, along with the projected resources needed and the time horizon expected. Deliverables are expected to be completed on time, within budget, and at the highest quality possible.
objectivesTo achieve this mission, ACC will:
» Serve ACC stakeholders (chamber members, corporate members, sponsors, industry and government).
» Build the relationship and continuity which has been established with media; be the “first call” on business issues.
» Continue to develop the Vision 2020 research project.
» Provide responsive and informed policy comment and advocacy.
» Continue to strengthen the identity and style that encourages program participation and influence.
» Build on policy advocacy and community chamber involvement.
» Promote confidence in ACC.
» Ensure sufficient financial resources to achieve objectives.
» Support and develop the “chamber federation” concept.
alberta chaMbers of coMMerce visionThe Alberta Chambers of Commerce will be the premier organization representing Alberta business.
36 37
strategiesTo accomplish our objectives, ACC will:
» Encourage and promote professional development for volunteers and staff.
» Develop a new activity or undertaking to advance the ACC profile and relevance to members.
» Continue to identify research topics for Vision 2020, new usages of reports, and develop new information for use by the community chambers.
» Consider a new event to create revenue and profile for the ACC (combined with) increasing profile, relevance, impact and worth of events.
» Continue to improve media relations, explore new media opportunities, and monitor success of media strategy.
» Search for new strategies to get ACC’s message to decision makers of all political stripes and orders of government.
» Increase effective two-way contact with community chambers.
governanceThe ACC Board of Directors consists of the elected Presidents/Chairs of each of the 127 community chambers of commerce in the province. The term served on ACC’s board coincides with their term as President/Chair of a community chamber. The board elects a six-member Executive Committee to conduct business and represent ACC (see Page 4 and 5 for members).
huMan resources PerforManceThe quality of ACC’s work environment and its ability to attract and retain highly skilled people are important indicators of ACC’s capacity to deliver results. The appropriateness and level of support for staff training and development; fair and reasonable working conditions and compensation practices; staff morale; and staff turnover all help to gauge ACC’s success at providing a high-quality working environment.
financial PerforManceACC sets financial targets annually through the budget process. ACC’s performance is determined by the extent to which financial objectives identified in the budget for the fiscal year are met and how effectively the financial resources of ACC are managed. Measurement is based on actual financial results for the year, compared to the budget and prior year.
caPability to deliver resultsACC’s capability to deliver results is discussed in four areas: Capital Resources and Liquidity; Net Assets; Non-Financial Resources; and Systems and Processes.
caPital resources and liquidity At December 31, 2012, ACC had a cash and cash equivalent balance of $432,112 versus $450,487 at December 31, 2011. ACC’s marketable investment consists solely of a fixed income GIC which will mature November 2017 and has an interest rate of 2.00%. ACC accounts for its marketable investments at fair value. During the year, ACC acquired property and equipment totaling $27,602 ($2,433 – 2011). ACC believes that its current cash balance and anticipated cash flow from operations is sufficient to meet its working capital and capital expenditure requirements. Current Assets at December 31, 2012, were $595,410 ($564,178 – 2011) and Current Liabilities at December 31, 2012, were $159,408 ($173,511 – 2011). This indicates an increase in liquidity of the organization in the amount of $45,335 when we compare December 31, 2012, to December 31, 2011.
net assets Net assets at December 31, 2012, amounted to $469,379 ($406,408 – 2011) and consisted of $33,377 (15,741 – 2011) invested in capital assets, $195,000 ($195,000 – 2011) of internally restricted net assets and $241,002 ($195,667 – 2011) of unrestricted net assets. Unrestricted net assets and internally restricted assets increased during the year, principally as a result of our operating results being $62,499 better than budget.
38 39
unrestricted net assets and internally restricted net assetsACC believes that unrestricted net assets should be maintained to ensure a stable financial base sufficient to:
» Avoid major fluctuations in member fees from year to year.
» Cover unpredictable costs.
» Finance property and equipment purchases.
Further, ACC believes that net assets should be restricted to an amount equivalent to three months operating expenses. As ACC is dependent upon its events as a major source of income, net assets have been restricted in the amount of $195,000 in the event one of our events is cancelled or financially compromised.
non-financial resourcesACC relies heavily on experienced volunteers and employees to enable it to carry out its mandate. ACC has an experienced team of directors, staff and volunteers, and well-developed processes.
systeMs and ProcessesACC maintains systems of internal accounting and administrative controls of high quality, consistent with reasonable cost. Such systems are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial information is relevant, reliable and accurate and that ACC’s assets are appropriately accounted for and adequately safeguarded. ACC believes there are no deficiencies that would impair its ability to provide reliable and timely disclosure or affect its ability to execute its strategic plan.
2013 budget suMMaryThe 2013 budget was distributed to all community chambers in December 2012. The accounting policies applied in preparation of the budget are consistent with those applied in the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012, as stated in the notes to the financial statements. However, as with any budget, actual results for 2013 may vary from the information presented. Ongoing reporting is presented at every board meeting and quarterly financial statements are mailed to all community chambers.
results year ended deceMber 31, 2012The net favourable variance from 2012 budget to 2012 actual was $62,499. The favourable variance is the equivalent of 5.7% of budgeted expenditures. Major categories contributing to this overall positive variance are as follows:
Event Income vs. expenditures negative variance $(18,903)
Group Insurance Admin. Fees positive variance 16,518
Other Revenue positive variance 11,579
Membership Fees (Corp & Chambers) negative variance (4,934)
Travel Staff and Executive positive variance 29,825
Salaries and Benefits negative variance (163)
Bad Debts negative variance (9,908)
Rent positive variance 24,477
Amortization negative variance (2,766)
Other Expenses positive variance 16,774
40 41
funding and financial risksACC relies on member fees, event registrations and sponsorships, and value-added program administration fees. We have cautious optimism for 2013, however, ACC will need to, just as any other Canadian organization or business, continue to be mindful of expenditure control.
huMan resourcesACC depends on the services of volunteers to carry out some of its objectives. The talent and expertise of ACC volunteers are valuable resources to ACC. A risk exists that, in the future, needed volunteers may not be as willing or able to devote their time and talents to ACC. Without these valuable resources, there is a further risk that knowledge would be lost and significant cost would be incurred by ACC. Volunteer recruitment and board orientation and training programs are used to help manage risk in this area. ACC wishes to express its appreciation to all volunteers who give of their time to benefit and strengthen the federation.
forward-looking stateMentsCertain statements in this Annual Report and this Management Discussion & Analysis are forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, fluctuation in the number of community chambers and corporate members, as well as sponsorship decisions of our valued sponsors.
The use of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is now required for publicly accountable profit-oriented enterprises. IFRS will replace Canada’s current GAAP for those enterprises. These include listed companies and other profit-oriented enterprises that are responsible to large or diverse groups of stakeholders and therefore will not apply to ACC. The framework for not-for-profit organizations is presently defined by CICA section 4400 – 4460 and these sections have been adopted by ACC. As the premier business organization in Alberta, we felt it important, although not required, to publish this Management Discussion & Analysis.
42 43
indePendent auditors rePort
44 45
46
oneA unified accounting profession
albertaaccountants.orgLearn more at
MANY STREAMS. ONE PATH.
CGA and CMA Alberta are unifying toward to a new pre-eminent national accounting designation – the Chartered Professional Accountant.
Our 13,000+ members continue to be key professionals adding value and integrity to your company’s bottom line and our new education program will produce the next generation of essential financial authorities.
www.abchamber.ca
www.albertavision2020.ca
www.abbusinessawards.com
facebook.com/ABChambersofCommerce
twitter.com/albertachambers (Advocacy Tweets)
twitter.com/ABChamber (Federation Tweets)
alberta chambers of commerce
1808, 10025 - 102A Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 2Z2
Phone: 780-425-4180 Toll-Free: 1-800-272-8854