Well, we certainly have gone through some interesting times over the last few years Now we are faced with inflation and interest rates that some have never seen before This is when we need to come together to support each other’s businesses Buying local has never been more important than it is today With challenging times, we need to continue to support to ensure that everyone survives these times
We must remember that it is the local business owners that are supporting our children’s sports teams, wedding socials and our local charities. You typically do not see a local child’s soccer team with a big box store name on the shirts.
Local businesses are the ones that are providing jobs for our community. Without business we would not be able to be the size that we are.
We must remember that it allows us to be less dependent on other communities and allows us to be seen as a competitive place for new businesses to come and open shop
Purchasing from local businesses gives money to that business, that they then in turn use to buy from other businesses, which stimulates our whole economy and makes us a stronger force to be reckoned with
Keeping a strong business community helps us to keep our value of the city up, allowing strong housing prices and increasing our equity. It also allows for overall satisfaction with the city of Brandon as our chosen place to live. The local tax dollars are used to support infrastructure and community recreational facilities that will allow us to be competitive when someone is deciding where to move to. By showing that we as a city and surrounding area are strong shop local people, we will make Brandon a more attractive place to open business which will in turn give us more selection.
With increased businesses we will have increased traffic created from travel, allowing for more money to come into
our community It also allows us to be competitive to bring in large events which are a win-win for everyone
Local businesses know our community and therefore will sell product or services that are needed in our area We will also get great service as the owners have a better understanding of our needs It allows for unique options as more businesses can start up with creative ideas if they know that our community will support them By supporting local businesses we will keep funds in the city so that they can support you.
Supporting small business allows more people to stay in our community. As our community stays strong and grows, we will be able to attract others including the medical professionals which are needed.
The environmental impact of shopping locally is not as severe which is of upmost importance currently. Remember the convenience of shopping local will not be here if we don’t support each other
We encourage innovation which is what is needed for our city to continue to grow and be competitive in Manitoba let alone Canada
Small business is the backbone of the economy It is up to us to ensure that our businesses continue to thrive! Have a great summer and get out there to shop local!
Jaime Pugh 2023-2024 Board President Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Setting the pace for a greater Brandon since 1883.
This past year, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce has been working with other Chambers, including the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Canadian Chambers of Commerce, to advocate on behalf of Canadian businesses who are holders of the Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) loans.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 900,000 CEBA loans were approved throughout the country Many of these businesses had no choice but to apply for the loan as the pandemic was beyond their control and many were on the brink of closure. The CEBA loan offered up to $60,000 in financial support to small businesses, with a repayment deadline of December 31, 2023, and a one-third debt forgiveness
In a recent letter to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, and others, are pushing for a 1-2 year extension on the repayment deadline This letter highlighted the postpandemic struggles, revealing:
49% of small businesses are still making below normal revenues (1)
50% of Canadian foodservice operators are currently operating at a loss or breaking even compared to 12% pre-pandemic (2)
45% of Canada's tourism businesses are likely or somewhat likely to close within the next three years without government intervention into their mounting debt load (3)
More than 250 chambers of commerce, tourism, and industry groups across the country have signed a letter emphasizing the risks of not extending the deadline Failure to repay the CEBA loan by the current deadline will result in loss of access to debt forgiveness of $20,000, increasing debt and potentially forcing more businesses to close.
The letter concluded by requesting an urgent address to the matter It also reminded Minister Freeland that extending the deadline would provide SMEs with the stability and certainty they need to recover and return to the path of prosperity.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate and support for local business, and we hope to soon be able to update you with positive response from Minister Freeland.
To read the letter, visit brandonchamber.ca/advocacy-priorities under "Fair Government Regulations and Reduction of Red Tape".
1. (Canadian Federation of Independent Business. (2023, May 10). The clock is ticking: Nearly three-quarters of small businesses need more time to repay CEBA loans. Press Release. www.cfibfcei.ca.)
2. Restaurants Canada. (2023, June 23). https://ontheirplate.ca
3. Tourism Industry Association of Canada. (2023, June 23). Two Out of Five Tourism Operators surveyed in Canada Report Being at Risk of Closing Press Release www tiac-aitc ca
The Government of Canada's Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) is designed to help Canadian employers hire college and university students on Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placements. Employers hiring eligible students may receive a subsidy up to 50% of wages for each 'net new ' placement or 70% of the wages for each 'net new ' placement within underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, newcomers to Canada, first year students, visible minorities, or women in STEM
Net new is determined by subtracting the number of students hired by an employer in the first year prior to first participating in the Student Work Placement Program, from the number of students (not staff) the employer is intending to hire in the current fiscal year, including those already hired.
Employers must be a registered Canadian business or not-for-profit organization, can be located anywhere in Canada, and can operate in any industry sector. Remote work is also allowed. There are some exclusions, such as:
Federal, provincial, territorial or municipal governments. Organizations which are extensions of a federal, provincial, territorial or municipal government, such as crown corporations, hospitals, public long-term care facilities, and post-secondary institutions are not eligible Members of the House of Commons and the Senate Organizations that engage in partisan political activities. Major and other financial sector employers, including businesses that underwrite loans (see FAQs for more information).
Please note that this list of exclusions may not be exhaustive. The OCC reserves the right to amend eligibility criteria at our discretion
Students hired must be registered at a recognized Canadian college or university, be enrolled in a program or course where a work placement is part of their study plan, and be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or persons to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
Funding is available on a first-come, first-serve basis There are 18 funding recipients - you may apply to multiple but if you are accepted, you can only accept funding from one recipient.
For more information about eligibility criteria, links to all funding recipeints, and how to apply, visit www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/student-work-placements-wage-subsidies
What is Mental Health First Aid?
MHFA is the help provided to a person developing a mental health and/or substance use problem, experiencing the worsening of an existing mental health and/or substance use problem, or in a mental health and/or substance use crisis. Just like physical first aid is provided until medical treatment can be obtained, MHFA is given until appropriate support is found or until the crisis is resolved. Mental Health First Aid is a nationally recognized certification course. Many registering bodies have approved this course for Continuing Education hours
What are the benefits of having a Mental Health First Aid Certificate?
For the workplace, MHFA is a foundational component of any Psychological Health and Safety program According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, 20% of all sick leaves are related to mental health The Great-West Life Assurance Company reports that 30% of all disability claims are related to mental health, and further, that depression is a secondary diagnosis in 75% of long-term disability claims. Employers who set a strategic direction for improving mental health in the workplace benefit greatly, and are rewarded with significant improvements in:
❖ Productivity: Psychologically healthy employees work efficiently;
❖ Cost Savings due to Disability and Absenteeism: There is a strong link between mental health, physical well-being and injury prevention;
❖ Operational Success: Mentally healthy workplaces are characterized by higher levels of employee motivation, commitment, innovation and creativity, as well as fewer errors, better decision making and improved planning;
❖ Recruitment and Retention: Today’s employees are looking for a workplace that supports their personal and professional growth;
❖ Conflict Reduction: Better mental health among employees means fewer grievances and complaints, and a stronger corporate reputation
Topics will include:
Mental Health for Declining Mental Well-Being
MHFA for Crisis Situations
Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviours
Depression
Anxiety Problems
Psychosis
Substance Use Problems
Gambling Problems
Eating Disorders
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI)
Panic Attacks
Following a Traumatic Event
Severe Psychotic States
Severe Effects of Alcohol Use
Aggressive Behaviours
Listrom Training and Consluting is offering virutal courses from September to mid-December The cost is $275 00/person plus 5% GST and the course capacity is 15 participants For more information, or to register, visit www mhfa ca/en/users/carissalistrom
Through interactive workshops, collaborative projects, and exclusive networking events, participants will expand their professional network, forging valuable connections that can foster personal growth, career advancement, and potential collaborative opportunities!
Your Investment: $1250 + GST
Your Committment: Last Friday of every month, for 10 months, with some take-home work to complete on your own time
SEPTEMBER 29TH!
Sessions Include:
Personality testing
Civic engagement
Economic development
Understanding all levels of Government
Connection with industry leaders And more!
Applications & more information can be found at brandonchamber.ca/leadership-brandon
Sponsored by:
Are you looking for a stunning outdoor venue to host your special events? Look no further than Oakland Estate, located just 20 minutes South of Brandon on a breathtaking 24-acre property With its picturesque surroundings and top-notch amenities, Oakland Estate is the ideal setting for weddings, corporate events, and more In this article, we'll delve into the details of this remarkable venue and all it offers
Nestled in the heart of nature, Oakland Estate provides a serene and picturesque setting for any event. The sprawling 24-acre property boasts lush greenery, towering oak trees, and a perfectly kept lawn. Whether you ' re exchanging vows or celebrating a milestone within your company, the natural beauty of Oakland Estate will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on you and your guests.
At Oakland Estate, no detail is overlooked when it comes to ensuring a seamless event experience The venue offers a range of amenities and facilities designed to meet your every need From spacious reception areas to elegant bridal suites, to fully serviced air-conditioned bathrooms Oakland Estate has it all Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that your event runs smoothly from start to finish
If you ' re dreaming of an outdoor wedding, Oakland Estate is the perfect place to bring your vision to life. The venue offers a variety of options for your ceremony and reception, allowing you to create a personalized and unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer a romantic ceremony under the oaks or an open-air celebration under a clear tent, Oakland Estate has the flexibility to accommodate your wishes.
In addition to weddings, Oakland Estate is also an excellent choice for corporate events Whether you ' re planning a team-building retreat or a product launch, the venue offers versatile spaces that can be tailored to suit your specific needs The serene surroundings and stateof-the-art facilities provide the ideal backdrop for a successful and memorable corporate event
Oakland Estate is open from May until the beginning of October, allowing you to take advantage of the beautiful Canadian summers. The warm weather and longer daylight hours during these months make Oakland Estate an even more desirable venue for outdoor events. Plan your event during this period to make the most of the stunning natural surroundings and pleasant weather.
Booking Oakland Estate for your special event is a straightforward process Simply reach out to their dedicated team, who will guide you through the process and help you choose the perfect package for your needs Whether you ' re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Oakland Estate has the flexibility and expertise to make your event truly unforgettable
When it comes to hosting a memorable event, the venue plays a crucial role Oakland Estate offers a breathtaking outdoor setting, top-notch facilities, and a dedicated team to ensure that your special occasion is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you ' re planning a wedding, corporate event, or any other celebration, Oakland Estate is the ideal choice. Contact them today to book your event and create memories that will last a lifetime. info@oaklandestate.ca
The SBVC tax credit program assists eligible small business corporations to issue new equity to primarily new investors
Eligible small business corporations can issue eligible shares for new equity investments of $100,000 up to a maximum of $10,000,000 Eligible investors who purchase eligible investments are able to earn a 45% nonrefundable tax credit against Manitoba taxes payable The SBVC tax credit is not a tax benefit for the eligible corporation
An eligible investor must invest a minimum of $10,000 during the approval period to be eligible for the tax credit; the maximum investment for tax credit eligibility purposes is $500,000 per company per investor. The maximum tax credit that may be earned is $225,000, and the maximum that can be claimed in a tax year is $120,000. Any unused tax credit may be carried forward for up to ten years or carried back for three years.
Corporations must be pre-approved to issue shares and must demonstrate that they are:
A Canadian Controlled Private Corporation (CCPC) with a permanent establishment in Manitoba; Assets are used in active business;
At least $25,000 cash equity already invested;
A small business with:
Annual revenue less than $15 million; or
Less than 100 full-time equivalent employees
At least 25% of employees reside in Manitoba
Approved corporations have a $10 million lifetime limit on shares issued
Eligible Investors criteria includes:
A common or preferred share must be paid for and issued to the investor after the issuer has been approved into the program and must have been issued before expiry of the approval period (12 months from approval date unless an extension to the approval period has been granted); at any time within the past 24 months, the investor was not a specified shareholder (see Specified Shareholder below);
at any time within the past 24 months the investor did not dispose of any capital stock of the applicant or of an affiliate of the applicant, or of a predecessor of either of them; and the investor must have paid at least $10,000 for the eligible investments but not more than $500,000 for shares issued after April 6, 2021 for the eligible investments;
Please note there may be further requirements; see website for more detail
For more information on the SBVCTC program or how to apply, visit https://www gov mb ca/jec/busdev/financial/sbvctc/
