Ontario Expands Emergency Response Network with Ontario Chamber of Commerce Partnership

Ontario Corps partnership strengthens emergency communication with businesses across the province

TORONTO — The Ontario government is expanding its emergency preparedness network by welcoming the Ontario Chamber of Commerce as a new partner in Ontario Corps, a province-wide initiative designed to improve emergency response and protect communities during natural disasters.

The partnership will enable the province to deliver timely and critical information directly to businesses during emergencies, leveraging the Chamber’s extensive network of more than 60,000 members and 143 local chambers and boards of trade.

Strengthening emergency communication and coordination

Officials say the Ontario Chamber of Commerce will act as a key communications conduit between the province and the business community, helping ensure that companies receive accurate updates before, during and after major emergencies.

“Ontario Chamber of Commerce has a vast network that represents over 60,000 members that are locally owned, Ontario businesses,” said Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response Jill Dunlop. “Becoming an Ontario Corps partner means we can collaborate to ensure urgent, timely communications reach businesses most impacted so we can act quickly and respond effectively during emergencies.”

Building a province-wide emergency response network

Ontario Corps is designed to mobilize trained volunteers, skilled professionals and partner organizations to support communities affected by emergencies such as floods, wildfires and severe storms.

The program can deploy resources including:

• Debris removal equipment and machinery
• Emergency supplies
• Flood barriers
• Drones and specialized response tools

The initiative has already been used in 2025 during events such as the spring ice storm and summer wildland fires, demonstrating its ability to coordinate rapid, large-scale responses.

Encouraging volunteer participation

The province is encouraging Ontarians from all professional backgrounds to join Ontario Corps as volunteers. Participants will receive training and be matched with partner organizations based on their skills and availability.

The announcement also aligns with National Volunteer Week (April 19–25, 2026), highlighting the importance of community involvement in emergency preparedness.

Supporting long-term emergency readiness

Ontario officials say the expansion of Ontario Corps partnerships is part of a broader strategy to strengthen emergency preparedness infrastructure across the province.

A new state-of-the-art Emergency Preparedness and Response Headquarters is also planned, which will serve as a 24/7 command centre equipped with advanced technology to coordinate responses year-round.

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce joins other partners including the Ontario Road Builders’ Association, Labatt Breweries of Canada and Ontario Mine Rescue in supporting the initiative.

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