Glance
Chamberata Chamberata
A Message from Your President
Welcome to the August At-a-Glance! I hope that business has been strong this summer, while at the same time our members have been able to find moments to relax and have fun. Our beautiful Manitoba summersshouldbeenjoyedasmuchaspossible!
I’mwritingthisarticlewithaheavyheart,aslaterthisFall we will bid farewell to our General Manager, Connor Ketchen In the 2 years that he has served in this role, I have had a front row seat to the energy, creativity and care that he has brought to this position I would personally like to thank Connor for the work that he has done to move our organization to the next level While maintaining the fundamental programs and services of the Chamber, Connor has grown our events, collaborated on new initiatives, and ensured that our voice was heard (loud and clear) at the provincial level and beyond. He has built a strong staff team, who are focusedontheneedsofourmembers,whilegrowingour programming and the membership as a whole. Personally, I have appreciated Connor’s calm approach which has been coupled with a genuine spirit of collaboration and creativity, resulting in win-win-win initiativeswithourcommunityandgovernmentpartners. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank ConnorforsharinghistimeandtalentswiththeBrandon Chamber of Commerce. We are excited to watch you grow in your next challenge, which will continue to contributetothesuccessofourcommunity!
advocatingonbehalfofBrandon,creating connections, and representing the Chamber at various events and forums Following in the footsteps of previous managers,wearelookingforanindividual who will be passionate about driving economic growth, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the overall businessclimateinBrandon
Thisiswhereyou,themembersoftheBrandonChamber ofCommerce,comein Iencourageeachandeveryone of you to work in lock-step with our recruiting agency, West-Can HR, to help us find the next General Manager for our organization We are seeking an enthusiastic leader with strong community advocacy and relationship development skills who will be the public face of the organization The GM is responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day operations of the organization,whilefocusingongrowthanddevelopment opportunities. This position has the opportunity to be a changemaker in our community, making an impact for localbusinessand
So, I encourage all of you to think about those within your networks (in Brandon or beyond) that could be interested in this opportunity.Whoisthatyoungpersonthat movedawayforeducationoropportunity, who might be considering a move home to raise their family? Or a senior leader whohasdiverseexperiencestodrawfrom, with a passion to give back to a network who supported them in their growth trajectory? The applicants can be as diverse as the position, so I’m asking all of you in your summer travels, to share this opportunity with those you cross paths with The strength of the Chamber has always come from the power of the networkswithinit Pleaseuseyourstohelp us find the next leader of this impactful organization!
Visit https://wchrscom/job-postings/ for moreinformation&joblisting
EVENTS
2024 - 2025 EVENT LINE-UP
SEPTEMBER
5th:Chamber101
6th:FirstFridayCoffee
12th:BusinessAfterFive
19th:PathwaystoEconomicReconciliationLuncheon
FEBRUARY
6th:Chamber101
7th:FirstFridayCoffee
20th:EmpoweringYouthRetentionLuncheon
TBA:BusinessAfterFive
OCTOBER
3rd:Chamber101
4th:FirstFridayCoffee
24th:CelebratingSmallBusinessSuccessLuncheon
TBA:BusinessAfterFive
NOVEMBER
1st:FirstFridayCoffee
7th:Chamber101
21st:EconomicInsights
TBA:BusinessAfterFive
DECEMBER
5th:Chamber101
6th:FirstFridayCoffee
11th:HolidayHappyHour
JANUARY
9th:Chamber101
10th:FirstFridayCoffee
16th:TheFutureofAgricultureLuncheon
MARCH
5th:WomenofWestmanConference
6th:Chamber101
7th:FirstFridayCoffee
20th:BuildingBridges&CommunityLuncheon
APRIL
3rd:Chamber101
4th:FirstFridayCoffee
17th:StateoftheCityLuncheon
TBA:BusinessAfterFive
MAY
1st:AnnualAwardsGala
8th:Chamber101
15th:StateoftheProvinceLuncheon
TBA:BusinessAfterFive
JUNE
5th:StateoftheChamberLuncheon
6th:FirstFridayCoffee&SummerBBQ
TBA:GolfTournament
TBA:Chamber101
Registrationformosteventsisnowopen!Besuretocheckoureventcalendarfordetails.Fullregistration foralleventswillbeavailablestartinginSeptember.Don’tmissout reserveyourspottoday!
REVITALIZING DOWNTOWN BRANDON:
A NEW DAWN FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
IncentivesDesignedforGrowth
In a bold move aimed at rejuvenating the heart of the city, the Brandon City Council approved the Downtown Market Housing Incentive Program Thisforward-thinkinginitiativeispoised to transform downtown Brandon into a vibrant, high-density residential community, attracting a diverse range of residents and stimulating economicgrowth
AVisionforaVibrantCommunity
The Downtown Market Housing Incentive Program aligns with the Downtown Brandon SecondaryPlan(ScheduleAofBy-LawNo 7238), which envisions a bustling, inclusive neighborhood where people from various income levels can thrive This plan is a cornerstone in the city's broader strategy to enhance urban living and create a dynamic environment that fosters community spirit and economicvitality
Mayor Jeff Fawcett highlighted the transformative potential of this initiative, stating, “City Council’s recent decision to create the Downtown Market Housing Incentive is transformative for our city By approving the DowntownMarketHousingIncentiveProgram,we are enhancing our city’s core together with our key partners that are committed to seeing downtownBrandonflourish”
The incentive program offers a comprehensive package designed to make residential development in downtown Brandon more attractive and financially viable The key componentsoftheprograminclude:
TaxCredits:Propertydeveloperscanbenefit from tax credits for up to 20 years, significantly reducing the long-term financialburdenofnewdevelopments Development Charge Off-Sets: Development charges, which can be a substantialcostinanynewproject,maybe offsetupto100percent,makingiteasierfor developers to initiate and complete their projects
Capital Grants: To encourage a variety of housing options, capital grants are offered per dwelling unit, with the amount depending on the number of bedrooms This ensures that developments cater to differentfamilysizesandneeds
Gerald Cathcart, Director of Economic Development Brandon, emphasized the economic ripple effects of the program: “This program is more than just a housing strategy; it’s a driver for economic growth It will attract investment, create jobs, and most importantly, buildastrongercommunity”
REVITALIZING DOWNTOWN
CollaborationandCommunitySupport
The success of the Downtown Market Housing Incentive Program hinges on collaboration between the city, local organizations, and residents Key partners such as the Downtown Wellness and Safety Task Force, Economic DevelopmentBrandon,theBrandonChamberof Commerce, Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation, the Brandon Downtown Biz, the Construction Association of Rural Manitoba, Brandon Area Realtors, the Brandon Downtown Development Corporation (BDDC), etc, are integral to this initiative Their collective efforts will ensure that the program not only meets housing needs but also enhances the overall qualityoflifeindowntownBrandon.
Emmanuel Ahaneku, Executive Director of the BDDC, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The BDDC’srecommendationshavebeenlistenedto. We’reexcitedtoseethecitytakeconcretesteps towards a new downtown market housing program.”
ACatalystforChange
The introduction of the Downtown Market Housing Incentive Program marks a significant milestone in Brandon's development. By offering substantial financial incentives, the program seeks to attract developers and investors who willbringinnovativeandhigh-qualityresidential projects to the area. This influx of new housing will help establish market momentum, driving further investment and development in the downtowncore.
Moreover, the program ' s focus on creating a mixed-income community will ensure that downtown Brandon becomes a place where people of all backgrounds can live, work, and enjoytheamenitiesandculturalofferingsofthe city.
BRANDON
HOWTOAPPLY
Applicationsfortheprogramcanbesubmitted inpersonattheAR McDiarmidCivicComplex, locatedat638PrincessAvenue,oronlineviathe officialwebsite: https://housingincentive.brandon.ca/.
Prospectivedevelopersandpropertyownersare encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to be part of Brandon's exciting urbantransformation.
In conclusion, the Downtown Market Housing Incentive Program is a promising initiative that heralds a new era of growth and vibrancy for downtown Brandon. By fostering residential development and economic investment, the program will help create a lively, diverse, and thrivingurbancommunity
EmmanuelAhaneku ExecutiveDirector BrandonDowntownDevelopmentCorporation
JOIN US AS A SEASON SEAT HOLDER
SeasonSeats
Seasonseatsarenowavailableforpurchase,offeringyou an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your business experience with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. As aSeasonSeatholder,you'llunlockexclusivebenefitsand accesstoourpremierluncheonsandevents,designedto propel your business forward and foster meaningful connectionswithinourcommunity.
SecureYourSeatsToday
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to elevate your business experience. Secure your Season Seats todayandtakeadvantageofhassle-freeregistrationand early bird pricing. Whether you opt for an individual seat or a full table of eight, investing in a Season Seat is an investmentinyourbusiness'ssuccess.
IndividualSeasonSeat
$364.50fortheseason
$40.50perluncheon
$45.00intotalsavings
Fulltableof8SeasonSeats
$2745.00fortheseason $305.00perluncheon $495.00totalsavings
August2024
2024-2025 EVENTS
EXCITING WEBSITE UPDATES!
We are thrilled to announce significant updates to our website, enhancing your experience and providingcomprehensiveinformationonourmajoreventsforthe2024-2025year
LuncheonSeries
OurpopularLuncheonSeriespagehasbeen revamped,andregistrationforallluncheons isnowopen!Joinusforaseriesofinsightful and engaging sessions featuring prominent speakers and topics relevant to our community. Secure your spot today and be part of these valuable networking opportunities.
WomenofWestmanConference
The Women of Westman Conference page has also received a fresh update. This annual event celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in our community Stay tuned for more details on speakers and sessions, with registration opening at the end of August Mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired and empowered.
AnnualAwardsGala
Our Annual Awards Gala page is now live with the latest updates. This prestigious event honors the success and achievements of Brandon’s business and community leaders. Look for more information on award categories and nomination processes, and get ready to register at the end of August. Join us in celebratingexcellenceinourcommunity
SponsorshipOpportunities
In addition to event updates, our Sponsorship Page will soon feature a comprehensive sponsorship document outliningallopportunitiesforthe2024-2025 year.Thisdocumentwillbeavailableonour website in September. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your business and support our events through various sponsorshipoptions.
We invite you to explore these updates and stay informed about our exciting events and opportunities. Visit our website for the latestinformation,andjoinusinmakingthe upcoming year a memorable one for our community
Stay connected, get involved, and let’s make2024-2025ourbestyearyet!
wwwbrandonchamberca
CITY OF BRANDON SEEKS RESIDENTS INPUT FOR COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELL-BEING PLAN
Brandon,MB TheCityofBrandonisexcitedtoannouncethelaunchofacommunitysurveyaimed at understanding residents' perceptions of safety and well-being This survey is a key part of developingBrandon'sCommunitySafetyandWell-Being(CSWB)Plan,fundedfromtheProvinceof Manitoba’s Department of Justice and in collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Safer Communities
Aspartofthisinitiative,multiplepublicconsultationmeasureswillbeundertaken,startingwiththe current survey, and then expanding to focus groups and other forms of engagement. To enhance communitysafetyandwell-beingforBrandon’sresidents,weneedacomprehensivestrategythat addressesissuessuchaspoverty,inequality,mentalhealth,substanceuse,andhomelessness
Thisinitiativeseekstoidentifysafetyconcernswithinthecommunityanddevelopasystematicplan toimplementlong-term,preventativesolutionsthataddresstheunderlyingcausesofthesesafety and well-being challenges. It also seeks to understand current views on community safety and well-being in Brandon, while also drawing insights from residents’ lived experiences. Our approach involvesevaluatingexistingsuccessfulmeasuresinBrandon,identifyingobstacles,andrecognizing unmetcommunityneeds.
Conductingcommunitysurveys,engagingwiththepublic,andgatheringandanalyzingdataareall crucialelementsofthisrigorousprocess Wearecommittedtocraftingaplanthatisdevelopedby ourcommunityforthebenefitofourcommunity
Toparticipateinthesurvey,pleasevisitsurveymonkey.com/r/BMVJYYZorrequestapapercopy bycontactingcswbplan@brandon.ca.SurveyresponsesareaccepteduntilOctober31,2024.
“Creating a plan together, with community involvement, significantly increases our likelihood of effectivelytacklingtheuniquechallengesweface,”saidShannonSaltarelli,theCommunityHousing & Wellness Coordinator for the City of Brandon “In addition to this survey, we are actively seeking ways to engage with every member of the community. Our aim is that everyone will feel encouragedtoconveytheirstoriestous,allowingustodevelopacomprehensiveplan.”
For more information about this project, visit brandon.ca/community-safety-and-well-beingplan.
Let’shaveanotherGreatYearTogether!
Thank you to all our valued members for your unwavering support throughout the 20232024chamberyear Together,we'veachievedremarkablemilestonesandmadesignificant stridesinenhancingtheBrandonbusinesscommunity Yourdedication,collaboration,and enthusiasmhavebeeninstrumentalindrivingpositivechangeandfosteringgrowth Here's toanothersuccessfulyearahead!
Asweembarkonanewchamberyear,weinviteourmemberstorenewtheirmembership with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce Your continued support ensures the strength andvitalityofourbusinesscommunity
YOURMEMBERSHIPRENEWALCHECKLIST
Membershipfeesarepaid
Primary&Billingcontactsareuptodate Physical&Mailingaddressesarecorrect Yournumberofstaffisstillwithinyourmembershiprange Questionsaboutyourmembership?ContactOliviatodayatmembers@brandonchamberca!
Welcome New Members!
At the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, we believe in the power of community and the strength of a unified business voice. Use this credit for advertising in our "Chamber at a Glance" weekly newsletter or "Glance" publication. These platforms provide excellent visibility, allowing you to promote your business to an engaged audience. By referring a newmember,youhelpgrowourChamberandgainvaluablemarketingopportunities It'sa win-winforeveryone Startreferringtoday!
2024-2025SponsorshipOpportunities
LUNCHEONBOOTHSPONSORSHIPS
Secure your spot as a booth sponsor at our highly attended luncheons, drawing between 200 to 500 attendees each month. These luncheons focus on diverse and engaging topics, making them an excellent platform for visibility and networking
Booth sponsorship includes:
A display booth during the opening networking period
A verbal mention by our MC
A thank you in our publications.
Pricing:
Non-Profit: $300 (plus tax)
Other Businesses: $350 (plus tax)
Exclusive April State of the City and May State of the Province Luncheons: Additional $50
LUNCHEONTABLESPONSORSHIPS
Become a table sponsor for one of our luncheons, available for only one business per event.
This exclusive opportunity includes:
Placement of your promotional material at every table/setting
A display booth during opening
networking period
A verbal mention from the MC
A thank you in our publications
Price: $1,000 per luncheon
For more information and to secure your spot at out Chamber luncheons, contactevents@brandonchamber.ca.
CHAMBER101EVENTSPONSORSHIPS
Join us as a sponsor for our upcoming Chamber 101 events, starting in September These sessions are designed to welcome new members and provide valuable insights into membership benefits & our chamber's key programs and initiatives
Sponsorship Benefits: Logo placement on event materials (signage, presentation slides, handouts).
Speaking opportunity: 5-7 minutes at the beginning of the session.
Door prize sponsorship Networking opportunities: Engage with new chamber members during the event.
Promotion: Mention in pre-event promotional materials & recognition in the chamber's newsletter or website post-event.
Price: $750.00
Event Sessions: First Thursday of Every Month | 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Formoreinformation,contactOliviaat members@brandonchamber.ca.
For a complete list of all our sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website The full sponsorship document will be available in September
BoardofDirectors
LOISRUSTON|PRESIDENT YWCAWestman
JENNIFERLUDWIG|VICEPRESIDENT SuperThriftyDrugsCanadaLtd
EMELIOBROWN |SECRETARY-TREASURER IntritechMarketing
MATTBERG
LivingstoneOutdoor&Livingstone LandscapingLtd
TILDAFORTIER GreenstoneBuildingProducts
MEREDYTHLEECH LeechGroup
BRENTMILLER VictoriaInn
ChamberStaff
CONNORKETCHEN GeneralManager
ERINHOUCK Office&ProjectManager
DESTINYMALUGA Events&MarketingCoordinator
OliviaBoyce MembershipCoordinator
ROBSTARKELL West-CanHRSolutions
CHRISFINLEY Mazergroup
KARINGRIFFIN AlternativeGroup
AMBERWHITE AnytimeFitness
CHARLESTWEED
TweediaSocialMediaAgency
ENVERNAIDOO WestmanImmigrantServices
CallieFowler Office&MarketingAssistant August2024
Acknowledgments
DESIGN,EDITING,WRITING&COMPILATION DESTINYMALUGA
MOSTPHOTOGRAPHY,INCLUDINGEVENTPHOTOGRAPHY TRIDENTEVENTGROUP
WeacknowledgethatBrandonislocatedonTreaty2territory, traditionallandsoftheCree,Oji-Cree,Dakota, Anishinaabe/Ojibwepeoples,andthehomelandoftheRed RiverMétisNation Wehonorthehistories,cultures,and contributionsofIndigenouspeoplestoourcommunity
SETTING THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883
TheBrandonChamberofCommerceisanindependent, membershipfunded,non-profitorganizationthatrepresents Brandonbusinessfromthegrassrootslevel
OurmissionistoencouragegrowthintheBrandoncommunityby fosteringaprogressivebusinessenvironment,favourableto enhancingexistingandattractingnewbusiness.