The Toronto Region Board of Trade is one of the largest and most influential chambers of commerce. Its constant flow of ideas, people and introductions to city-builders and government officials firmly roots it as a connector for, and with, the business community. The Board acts as a catalyst for the region's growth agenda, at home and on a global scale with its World Trade Centre Toronto franchise. Backed by more than 12,000 members, it advocates on their behalf for policy change that drives the growth and competitiveness of the Toronto region. It wants Toronto to be recognized as one of the most competitive and sought-after business regions in the world, and believes this reputation starts with members and their business. A non-profit organization with a mandate to serve, represent and unite Toronto's business community, the Board offers business services, facilities, events, policy development and analysis, and advocacy to the city, provincial and federal governments. It develops and promotes policies and programs under the key strategic pillars of Trade, Transportation and Talent. The Board operates at two locations across Toronto: the Downtown Centre in the heart of the city's financial district, another near Toronto Pearson International Airport. World TradeCentre Toronto is the Board's trade services arm. As a member of the World Trade Centre Association, WTC-T creates unparalleled global access for the Toronto region's business community with its connection to 317 branded properties and trade services associations in 88 countries. WTC-T provides targeted international trade advisory services and expertise through comprehensive research, trade education, strategy building workshops, outbound and inbound trade missions and valuable connections to experts and networks.
History
The Board was founded 10 February 1845 by an act of the legislature of Canada: Its first president was George Percival Ridout, who served in that position until 1852 when he was elected to the legislature. Following Ridout, Thomas Clarkson, also a founding member and founder of Clarkson Gordon & Co served as president until 1854. It grew slowly, and had only acquired 60 members by 1856. Until the 1860s, most members were traders, specifically wholesalers. In 1884, it was amalgamated with the Toronto Corn Exchange Association. The Old Toronto Board of Trade Building, which housed the board, was Toronto's first skyscraper at seven storeys. In 1932−33, the board's name was officially changed to "The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Toronto". In 2012, the board changed its name to "Toronto Region Board of Trade".
Political Lobbying
In 2017, the organization started campaigning to shift ownership of municipally owned transit agencies in Toronto.
