WOODSTOCK – Oct. 19, 2023 – They networked, they made business connections, and they received information on programs, products and services, all while nibbling on delicious hors d’oeuvres, all in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Some 40 businesspeople – members and employees of the West Prince Chamber of Commerce and the Acadian and Francophone Chamber of Commerce of PEI (or CCAFLIPE) – had the privilege of attending this much-appreciated Co-op and Small Business Week B.A.S.H. (or Business and Social Hour) at Mill River Resort in the early evening of Wednesday, Oct. 18th.

During a formal portion of the evening, West Prince Chamber managers Tammy Rix and Acadian Chamber manager Raymond J. Arsenault both offered impressive statistics on the performance of small and micro businesses. In turn, West Prince Chamber president Dan MacDonald and CCAFLIPE spokesperson Velma Robichaud emphasized the importance of networking and mutual support in small communities.

Alecia Arsenault, coordinator of RDÉE Prince Edward Island’s PERCÉ program, invited the employers in attendance to take advantage of her post-secondary internship program, while explaining the participation criteria for employers and students.

Robert Maddix, coordinator of RDÉE PEI’s Quebec sales missions, indicated that he is recruiting bilingual Island businesses for his two 2024 missions. He explained how entrepreneurs can get involved.

People could visit a few information booths set up by member and partner. There were also draws for several door prizes.

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PHOTO: Those speaking during the B.A.S.H. business mixer were, from left, Robert Maddix, RDÉE sales mission coordinator; Tammy Rix, executive director of the West Prince Chamber of Commerce (WPCC); Alecia Arsenault, RDÉE PEI’s PERCÉ coordinator; Dan MacDonald, WPCC president; Raymond J. Arsenault, CCAFLIPE manager; and Velma LeBlanc, CCAFLIPE spokesperson and RDÉE PEI president.