Regional chamber funds to aid firms

Regional chambers of commerce and industry, including the EKCCI, are set to be bolstered by thousands of dollars in grants to make up for the huge blow COVID-19 restrictions have dealt to their members.

Earlier this month, after consultation with the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry of WA and the State’s nine regional development commissions, the State Government announced it would allocate a total of $235,000 to provide financial support to individual chambers.

Chambers of commerce across regional WA have reported a drop in income from memberships and from the need to postpone events, threatening their long-term viability. Between $5000 and $20,000 will be provided, depending on size and need.

Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said local chambers of commerce were a key part of regional WA.

“Restrictions necessary to stop the spread of COVID-19 have limited the ability of regional chambers to raise funds, with some at risk of closing their doors,” she said.

“We are providing some assistance to these member-based organisations so that they can continue to support regional businesses as we move towards COVID-19 recovery.

“Now, more than ever, we need local chambers of commerce to continue to provide vital support and information to regional small businesses.”

Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry of WA chief executive Kitty Prodonovich said the announcement was a strong show of support from the State Government for its members, recognising their “importance, value and the services they provide”.

The East Kimberley Chamber of Commerce recently announced the winner of the 2020 East Kimberley Small Business Awards.

Pick up this week’s edition of The Kimberley Echo to see which of your favourite local businesses were recognised.