Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce earmarked by Oakville to grow local economy, boost business

With the city of Oakville, Ont. looking to expand the local economy and bring more businesses to the city, the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) is among the business organizations earmarked by the city to help with its immediate and long-term plans.

As highlighted in city’s Economic Development Plan from 2025 to 2029, among the various economic development ecosystem organizations are:

• Oakville’s three Business Improvement Areas (BIAs)
• Visit Oakville
• Oakville Chamber of Commerce
• Sheridan College
• Halton Region Economic Development and Small Business Centre
• Halton Industry Education Council (HIEC)
• Silicon Halton
• Innovation Factory (formerly Haltech)
• Angel One Network
• Toronto Global
• Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce
• Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce

In addition to these efforts, Oakville’s economic development department held aspirations and actions workshops and consulted with the mayor, members of Council, the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), and staff from nine municipal departments.

Throughout the engagement process, community and business leaders shared their vision for the future of the town’s economy. Their vision included an active and innovative economy with employment growth in high-skilled jobs, industry-leading companies, and a strong focus on supporting local businesses.

CHCC honoured by Oakville Mayor

With the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce, set to play a major role in Oakville’s economic and cultural development, the organization was recently given a certificate of commendation by Oakville Mayor Bob Burnton.

“Your organization’s contributions have supported the development of a forward-thinking strategy that reflects the voices of business leaders across the region,” he said in a letter confirming the commendation. “By lending your perspective to this collaborative effort, you have helped shape a plan that strengthens Oakville’s position as a hub for innovation, talent, and investment.”

There are about 27,800 people in Oakville who identify as South Asian, making up about 13.5 percent of the local population, according to the 2021 census. Hindus constitute about 4.5 percent of the population – roughly 9,500 individuals.

The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce empowers entrepreneurs across the country. Last night over 500 stakeholders, #SmallBiz owners, community members, and leaders like @rechievaldez came together in #Oakville to celebrate our Hindu-Canadian businesses we know and love. pic.twitter.com/HE7Dtgelq4

— Anita Anand (@AnitaAnandMP) November 5, 2023

Major potential impact for Oakville and surrounding areas

Oakville would benefit greatly from collaboration with community organizations such as the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce, across the following areas of development:

• Economic development and business growth: Promoting entrepreneurship, attracting investment, and showcasing local businesses
• Cultural integration and community development: Bridging cultures, educational programs, and celebrating diversity
• Networking and professional development: Creating business network, skill development, and youth engagement
• Advocacy and representation: Championing business needs and promoting inclusion in commerce
• Strengthening international links, including creating a Canada-India business bridge, and promotion of tourism.

Established in early 2022, the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce aims to unify and effectively represent Hindu entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders across Canada. It serves as a platform for connecting members from diverse backgrounds—whether from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Caribbean, or beyond—to share resources, mentorship, and opportunities.

The CHCC’s launch was met with widespread support. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and ex-Conservative leader Erin O’Toole, all offered messages of congratulations when the organization was formed.