OTTAWA, ON | April 27, 2026 – The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce it has
been recognized with two Honourable Mentions and one individual award at the Ontario Chamber of
Commerce 2026 Annual General Meeting, held last week in Ottawa.

The recognition highlights the Chamber’s leadership in advocacy and community impact, while also
celebrating the exceptional contributions of its President & CEO, Greg Dunnett.

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s Annual General Meeting brings together chambers and boards of
trade from across the province to share best practices, shape advocacy priorities, and celebrate
excellence across the chamber network.

Burnie Gillespie Memorial Award

Hamilton Chamber President & CEO Greg Dunnett was honoured with the Burnie Gillespie Memorial
Award, recognizing outstanding leadership among chamber executives across Ontario. Since becoming
President & CEO in 2023, Dunnett has led the organization through a period of transformation,
strengthening its financial position, expanding programming, and deepening partnerships across the
community.

Quote from Saher Fazilat, Chair, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
“Greg exemplifies the leadership this award was designed to recognize. As Chair, and previously
Vice-Chair, I have seen firsthand how he has elevated the Chamber’s voice and strengthened its
reputation across Hamilton and beyond. He is a tireless advocate for our business community, from
small businesses to major employers, ensuring Hamilton is represented at critical decision-making
tables, including international trade missions. His visibility, strong government relationships, and
unwavering focus on opportunity have positioned the Chamber as a trusted and influential leader in our
region.”

Quote from Henry Wegiel, Past-Chair, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
“Greg’s leadership, strategic direction, and passion for Hamilton are both evident and impactful,
fostering stronger relationships and meaningful results for the Chamber, its members, and the broader
community. He consistently brings a forward-thinking approach, embraces challenges, and inspires
others to align with a shared vision, all while maintaining a people-first mindset. This combination of
qualities is especially important in today’s complex geopolitical and economic environment. Hamilton is
fortunate to have Greg as a dedicated and effective advocate on its behalf.”

Outstanding Advocacy Campaign Award (Honourable Mention)

The Chamber received an Honourable Mention for the Outstanding Advocacy Campaign Award,
recognizing its leadership in advancing downtown revitalization and safety in Hamilton. Through a
series of strategic roundtables that brought together business leaders, community stakeholders, and
decision-makers, the Chamber played a key role in shaping the City of Hamilton’s 10-Year Downtown
Revitalization Plan.

Quote from Greg Dunnett, President & CEO, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce
“This recognition reflects what can happen when business, community, and government come together
with a shared focus on downtown. Our role was to convene the right voices, surface real challenges,
and help move forward solutions that support a safer, more vibrant core for everyone.”

Chair’s Award for Innovative Program or Service (Honourable Mention)

The Chamber also received an Honourable Mention for the Chair’s Award for Innovative Program or
Service for its Hamilton Gives initiative, in partnership with the United Way Halton & Hamilton and the
McKeil Family Foundation. The program reimagines the traditional awards gala by combining
networking, recognition, and philanthropy into a community-focused experience. Since its launch,
Hamilton Gives has raised nearly $60,000 in support of local charities while strengthening connections
between the business and non-profit sectors.

Quote from Brad Park, Interim President & CEO, United Way Golden Horseshoe
The Hamilton Gives event is a powerful reflection of the energy, innovation, and strong sense of
community within the Hamilton business sector. We continue to see leaders step forward in meaningful
ways, not only driving economic growth, but also making a real difference in the lives of people across
Hamilton. Through our partnership with the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, we’re proud to recognize
the individuals and businesses who are giving back and helping to build a stronger, more connected
Hamilton.”

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