Let’s face it: the past few years have been no picnic for small businesses. Ellen Covey, a Certified Financial Planner and exclusive Advisor for the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce’s Group Insurance Plan, has seen it all. She says many small businesses feel like they are on struggle street, that hard, unpaved road where too many small business owners and their teams have been slogging lately. But Ellen’s on a mission to help chart the way to something better: a bustling, optimistic Main Street where businesses—and the people who power them—can thrive.
Her strategy? Customizable, small-business-friendly group insurance plans that deliver more than just peace of mind. “It’s a perk of Chamber membership,” Ellen says, with the kind of practical enthusiasm that makes you believe she genuinely cares. “We design plans that meet your needs, keep your team healthy, and let them know you value them and their families.”
A Different Breed of Insurance
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, one-size-fits-nobody kind of coverage. The Chamber’s insurance plan is part of a nationwide, not-for-profit initiative that levels the playing field for small businesses. Ellen explains it like this: If one of your employees needs expensive medications or another high-cost treatment, with a pooled Chambers Plan you won’t be hit with a gut-punch increase at renewal. “It protects the plan owner from unusual spending spikes,” she says. “It’s a different philosophy from the traditional, experience-rated plans.”
And with businesses coming in all shapes and sizes, the Chamber offers tiers of plans to fit various needs. From robust health, dental, and physio coverage to travel insurance, massage therapy, and more, there’s something for everyone. Need long-term disability or critical illness coverage? It’s all far more affordable when bundled together.
Ellen’s favourite feature? The fully-pooled option, where premiums and claims are grouped together, leveling out costs. And for younger, healthier teams, the partially-pooled option offers rate discounts, giving you the best bang for your buck.
Perks Beyond Insurance
But wait, there’s more. Because the Chamber Plan doesn’t just sell insurance—it becomes your go-to business partner. Chamber Plan members get nine free hours of expert advice, from HR specialists to lawyers and accountants. There’s also the Healthy Business Bookmark, an online treasure trove of policies, procedures, and resources designed to make running your company a little less overwhelming.
Ellen sums it up: “We’re here to be a resource. Whether you need a free coverage comparison or just someone to help you navigate the chaos of small business life, we’ve got you covered.”
A Win-Win Investment
Did we mention the tax benefits? The majority of premiums are 100 per cent deductible, and are not considered a taxable benefit for staff, making this plan a win for your wallet and your workforce. “It’s an investment,” Ellen says. “In your team, their families, and their wellness.”
Ready to swap Struggle Street for a Main Street success story? Reach out to Ellen at (587) 222-6050, or explore the Chamber Group Insurance Plan online. You can also contact the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce directly at (403) 932-0320. Membership details and more are just a click or call away.
Because when your team wins, your business wins. And Ellen Covey? She’s there to make sure you cross that finish line together.