John Oddi, the 2025 President of the Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant, sat down with BrantBlog.ca to discuss the Chamber’s accomplishments, ongoing challenges, and strategic plans for the upcoming year. With over 40 years of experience as a real estate agent and a rich history of leadership roles—including serving as director of the Ontario Real Estate Association and chairing its Government Relations Committee in 2017—Oddi brings a wealth of expertise to his role.
Reflecting on 2024, Oddi highlighted several key achievements that demonstrated the Chamber’s commitment to advocacy, business support, and community engagement. “We’ve had a very successful year with events like the MP and MPP Breakfast, Brantford 2050 Mayor’s Event, the County of Brant Mayor’s Harvest Lunch, and our signature Business Excellence Awards,” Oddi said. He also pointed to the Chamber’s expanded advocacy efforts, including the introduction of a vice chair role for the Advocacy Committee.
Elizabeth Lorenzin, the new Advocacy Committee Chair for 2025, will continue the Chamber’s focus on issues such as transportation, homelessness, and support for small and medium-sized businesses. Oddi emphasized that these priorities were established during the Chamber’s first-ever strategic advocacy planning session, a milestone for the organization.
The Chamber’s advocacy efforts in 2024 gained momentum through increased collaboration with local governments and community stakeholders. Meetings with the city’s mayor, CAO, and various municipal departments paved the way for ongoing dialogues about pressing issues, including infrastructure development, affordable housing, and mental health support.
Looking ahead to 2025, Oddi stressed the importance of preparation for anticipated federal and provincial elections. “We’re ready to tackle any challenges that arise,” he said. “We’ve already started planning for election debates and candidate forums in partnership with Rogers TV. It’s crucial that we give businesses and residents the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking office.”
Transportation also remains a top priority. The Chamber approved a six-point transportation policy to address both hard infrastructure, such as road improvements, and soft infrastructure, including transit accessibility. Oddi noted that the Chamber continues to support Brantford’s On-Track proposal to improve regional transit connections, which was presented to the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Transportation.
Oddi also highlighted the Chamber’s role in economic development strategies for both Brantford and Brant County. As the only organization actively participating in development plans for both municipalities, the Chamber serves as a bridge between urban and rural economic goals. “We’re uniquely positioned to bring these two communities together and align their priorities,” Oddi said. “Whether it’s supporting the film industry’s growth or advocating for tax incentives for small businesses during redevelopment, we’re at the table helping to shape the future.”
The Chamber has made significant strides in addressing homelessness and mental health, working closely with the City of Brantford and organizations like the Chamber Network’s Social Action Working Group, comprised of Chambers in Ontario with an interest in sharing their community’s best practices. “We’re proud to advocate for solutions that balance compassion with economic stability,” Oddi explained. “It’s not just a social issue—it’s a business issue, too.”
In addition to local initiatives, the Chamber maintains strong ties to provincial and national organizations. Chamber Past President Paul Bisanti now serves on the Ontario Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, raising Brantford-Brant’s profile on a larger stage. “Having representation at that level helps amplify the voices of our local businesses,” Oddi said.
Oddi highlighted the Chamber’s focus on education and workforce development, including programs that connect businesses with skilled trades and training providers. “Our education roundtable has been running for over 30 years,” he said. “It’s a vital resource for employers and educators to collaborate on preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”
The Chamber also remains involved in healthcare advocacy, monitoring developments such as the proposed hospital redevelopment and changes to physician recruitment strategies. Oddi emphasized that a strong healthcare system is essential for attracting businesses and workers to the region.
On the topic of municipal restructuring, Oddi addressed the proposed study of the costs of amalgamation by City of Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis between Brantford and Brant County. “It’s important to clarify that this is just a study,” he said. “No decisions have been made. The goal is to explore whether combining resources could benefit both communities. The Chamber is strictly non-partisan and does not have a position on the matter. We want to keep the dialogue open and constructive, and get as much information as possible to build the best possible environment for business in Brantford-Brant.”
As Oddi looks ahead to his presidency in 2025, he remains optimistic about the Chamber’s ability to adapt and lead through challenges. “We’ve built a solid foundation with a forward-thinking board and a dedicated team,” he said. “Whether it’s addressing economic changes, supporting small businesses, or advocating for policy improvements, we’re ready to respond.”
With nearly 600 members, including 25% micro and small businesses and around 60 to 65 nonprofits, the Chamber continues to be a driving force for business growth and community development. Signature events like the Business Excellence Awards, Women in Business Summit, and the annual golf tournament highlight the organization’s commitment to celebrating success and fostering connections.
Oddi also praised the Chamber’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing initiatives like distributing 85,000 rapid test kits to local businesses. “That’s what we do,” he said. “We solve problems. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a local zoning issue, we step up to support our members.”
With plans to review the strategic plan, expand membership, and maintain high-impact advocacy efforts, the Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant is set for another busy and impactful year. “We’re here to make a difference,” Oddi said. “Our job is to create an environment where businesses can thrive, and we’re ready to keep that momentum going into 2025.”
