Chamber of Commerce

Prince George Chamber celebrates 115 years of supporting business community

Oct 20, 2026 | 12:13 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 115 years of advocating for businesses and helping shape the community.

The organization predates the City of Prince George. It began as the Fort George Board of Trade, which was federally registered on October 21, 1911, three-and-a-half years before the city was founded. It became the Prince George Board of Trade in 1915 and adopted its current name in 1961.

Executive Director Neil Godbout says the organization’s early history demonstrates the willingness of local business leaders to work together rather than wait for senior governments to address the community’s needs.

“We can’t wait for Victoria to take care of us, to look after our immediate local needs, and let’s band together and work together,” Godbout said.

That involvement quickly extended beyond business. Godbout noted the first two mayors of Prince George had also served as presidents of the Board of Trade.

Over the decades, he said the Chamber’s role has included advocating not only for economic development but for broader community priorities.

He pointed to efforts supporting a northern university and medical school, along with more recent advocacy surrounding safe streets.

Today, the Chamber has 530 members and provides business benefits, events and political advocacy at all levels of government.

Looking ahead, Godbout believes Prince George and the surrounding region have considerable economic potential.

He pointed to major projects and resource development, along with diversification in health care and education and private-sector activity in mining, oil and gas and wind energy.

“And that creates an opportunity for smaller businesses and entrepreneurs to come in with fresh ideas,” he said. “So I think it’s a very exciting time for Prince George.”

The anniversary also comes as mayor-elect Garth Frizzell prepares to become the fifth person in Prince George history to serve as both Chamber president and mayor.

The Chamber will celebrate its 115th anniversary with an open house Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. at its office at 1564 7th Avenue.

“We’re pretty excited,” Godbout said. “This is a great milestone for the Chamber of Commerce.”