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NORTH BAY, ON – The North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses of all sizes and sectors across the region to participate in the Ontario Chamber of Commerce's (OCC) 2026 Business Confidence Survey, an annual initiative that helps shape economic policy, advocacy priorities and recommendations for Ontario's business community.
The survey is open to all businesses, not just Chamber members, throughout North Bay, West Nipissing, Mattawa, Bonfield, Callander, East Ferris, Nipissing Township and surrounding communities.
Businesses can complete the confidential, 10-minute survey at https://tinyurl.com/56vsbcpf. The deadline to participate is Monday, November 30, 2026.
As businesses continue to navigate rising operating costs, workforce challenges, trade and tariff pressures, and economic uncertainty, the survey provides an opportunity for local business owners and leaders to share their experiences, identify barriers to growth and highlight opportunities for the future.
"Our region is home to an incredibly diverse business community, from independent entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses to major employers and growing industries," said Donna Backer, CEO of the North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce. "Every business has a different experience and perspective, and we want to make sure those voices are heard. The challenges facing a small business in Mattawa may be different from those of a manufacturer in North Bay or a tourism operator in West Nipissing. By participating in this survey, businesses can help us build a clearer picture of what is happening across our region and ensure Northern Ontario's priorities are part of the provincial conversation."
The results will help inform the OCC's advocacy and policy recommendations and contribute to the 2027 Ontario Economic Report, a research publication examining business confidence, economic conditions and opportunities across Ontario.
The Chamber emphasizes that participation is important regardless of whether a business is currently experiencing challenges or success. Understanding where businesses are thriving is just as valuable as identifying where additional support, investment or policy changes may be needed.
"Strong advocacy begins with listening," added Backer. "We don't want decisions about the future of Ontario's economy to be made without meaningful input from the businesses that keep our communities moving. This is an opportunity to share what's working, what isn't and what needs to change to help businesses succeed."
All survey responses are confidential and reported only in aggregate by independent research firm Leger, ensuring individual business perspectives remain anonymous.
The Chamber encourages business owners, entrepreneurs, employers and organizational leaders to participate before November 30 and share the survey throughout their professional networks to help ensure broad representation from communities across the region.
The North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven organization dedicated to supporting, connecting and advocating for businesses throughout North Bay and the surrounding region. Through networking opportunities, business resources, strategic partnerships and advocacy at the municipal, provincial and federal levels, the Chamber works to foster a strong, competitive and prosperous regional economy.
