Q: |
How can I become a member? |
A: |
The most common method of introduction to OXA, and to the membership proposal process, is through referral/sponsorship by a current member. However, interested parties may telephone the Executive Coordinator – Jennifer Baker, Documents Etcetera at (613) 749-5975 for further information. |
Q: |
Are there criteria for membership? |
A: |
The main criterion is that there is no current member in the business classification of the prospective member and that the business activity of the new member will not infringe upon that of any existing member.
A second criterion is that the prospective member must have been in business for 3-5 years.
Once these hurdles are cleared, the new member prospect must complete an application form which includes a credit check. The Board of Directors must unanimously approve each membership proposal and it is then published to the Association for seven days. Objections must be received in writing within seven days of publication and the Board of Directors will then consider such objection. |
Q: |
Are there costs involved in joining OXA? |
A: |
There are three costs:
- A one-time initiation fee
- An annual membership fee
- A monthly meeting fee
|
Q: |
Who represents the member firm at meetings, etc.? |
A: |
A Principal Member is approved at the time of approval into membership. This Principal Member should be an owner, partner, major shareholder, senior manager or, at the very least, the person within the company who has purchasing power and/or can effect purchasing within the member firm. |
Q: |
Why must the members meet every week? How can they afford the time? |
A: |
OXA members view the weekly meetings, on sites, and other scheduled events as their most important appointment of the week: where else can you make contact with 50-70 business leaders from our community in one room?
Weekly meetings, which are mandatory, allow each member the opportunity to keep themselves, their products and services, up front and foremost in the minds of their fellow members.
In business, out of sight is out of mind ... |
Q: |
Are members obligated to do business with each other? |
A: |
Members are obligated to request a quote or tender if they require a product or service that is provided by a fellow member. All things being equal, they are expected to retain the services of a fellow member. |
Q: |
How many members are there in OXA? |
A: |
Over the past decade, membership has averaged 85-86 member firms. |
