June 2016 Inside this issue: Chamber Ecosystem New Members Signature Event Recommended Reading Recruiting Initiatives Provincial Budget
CHAMBER at a glance
2 3 5 6 7 8
a publication of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
A Lifetime Worth of Lessons
I
t seems like only yesterday that I effort put forth by committees, Board, was anxiously awaiting the and staff members to ensure that Chamber’s Changeover luncheon Chamber issues were heard by all and preparing to take over the Chair candidates, and following the from Todd Birkhan. Past President elections, by their governments. after Past President were quick to tell me how fast it would go by, but I didn’t With a new government at the think it would seem like an instant. I’d Legislature, the Chamber will be quick say I’d like another term to finish up a to continue to push it’s agenda around few of our initiatives, and have a re-do taxation, competitiveness, access to at a couple of things, but in reality I’m capital, and urban economic ready to get back to my real job, pass development initiatives tailored for on the reins, and let somebody else fill Brandon and surrounding area. We’re the grooves in the in the process of chair at the head of setting up meetings the table. with our new Premier, “an experience Brian Pallister, and the that I wouldn’t It’s only timely that MLA’s from Brandon trade for the the Brandon East and West where Chamber Board we’ll be anxious to world.” Election and hear how the new Changeover government will Ceremony is taking place on the heels interact with the Brandon business of the Provincial election, which sees a community. We’ll continue to new face in Brandon East and an old advocate for commitments to friend of the Chamber returning to previously announced infrastructure Brandon West. Congratulations to both and community projects in order to Len Isleifson and Reg Helwer; the continue with the momentum building Chamber looks forward to working on in our City. a Better Brandon with you both. Before that, the Brandon Chamber It’s been a year full of elections for the executive headed to the Manitoba Brandon Chamber, with considerable Chambers of Commerce Annual
Jordan Ludwig, Chamber President
General Meeting held in Portage La Prairie, where we discussed business climate, economic development initiatives, tourism, and most importantly, the policy direction that the Manitoba Chamber will take in the upcoming year that will shape our mandate and discussions with all stakeholders. The Brandon Chamber is proud to be bring policy to the MCC AGM supporting flexible funding for postsecondary institutions. Time and again, workforce issues are the biggest challenge facing our member businesses - we think this is an important step in addressing these issues. It only makes sense to direct education funding towards programming that graduates students into jobs that are available in our (Continued on page 6)
GM REPORT
Supporting the Chamber Ecosystem
A
s the Chamber presidential year and our events season nears completion, it is a great time to reflect, take stock, and think about what your Chamber Membership means to you.
The Chamber membership allows your business to determine the benefits that have the most value for you. Advocacy, business networking and raising your profile tend to be the most popular responses when we ask members about why they value their Membership.
Everyone has a role and like a natural ecosystem, the larger and more The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an diverse the independent, membership funded, nonpopulation, the stronger the ecosystem. profit organization that represents Brandon I recently read an article during one of my The Chamber role is to grow and support business from the grassroots level. Our professional development sessions that this healthy, sustainable and thriving Mission is to encourage growth in the provided a metaphor for the Chamber Brandon community by fostering a movement. It suggested that some people ecosystem. Your role as a member is to progressive business environment, think about the Chamber as a Mother bird – recognize your importance in the favourable to enhancing existing and “who after being given her Chamber dues, ecosystem and use the connections and resources within the ecosystem to support attracting new business. will go out and gather business, preand grow your business. masticate it, and finally regurgitate it into their little business mouths for The Mission is clear and it was developed, 1 I encourage you to continue supporting revised, enhanced and carried out by your consumption.� Like the author, I believe the real value is when we see the Chamber your Chamber by utilizing the benefits that peers since May 14, 1883. Nearly 133 years as the ecosystem where together we build fit for your business, renewing your later, I would argue the strength of the and develop the type of business climate membership and sharing why you think it is Chamber movement is that its direction and valuable to you with your peers and policies are guided by its members. People we all want to grow and thrive. Each business is an integral part of a community business colleagues. tend to embrace that which they create. web where businesses are interrelated and interdependent. Carolynn Cancade General Manager Contact Carolynn by phone at 204-571-5342 or by email at gm@brandonchamber.ca 1
The Chamber Ecosystem; The View of Jason Marshall, Business Development Specialist http:// www.mccookchamber.org/blog/the-chamberecosystem
Friday Coffee ends in June 10-11:00am | Chamber Office
2
www.brandonchamber.ca
MEMBERSHIP ZONE
member
SPOT LIGHT The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Courtney’s Cake Creations to our membership! Can you provide a description of your business services? We are a local, family-owned business. We bake everything from scratch. Attention to detail is a must for us. We offer fresh fudge, peanut brittle, chocolate pizza slices, cookies, cakes, cupcakes, edible fruit arrangements and so much more. We keep at least 20 different kinds of cupcakes in the shop everyday and the flavours change weekly. If you have a sweet tooth we have you covered!
What are your business goals? The goals of my business are to give you the freshest product possible and to customize it just for you. We want your cake not only to look good but taste good as well. Do you have a motto? "Life is short.... Eat more cupcakes!" What are your business hours? Tuesday-Friday 10am-5:30pm Saturday 10am - 4pm
We are an allergy friendly bakery, offering options that are gluten, sugar, egg free and more. Gluten free cupcakes are always available. We also carry a variety of wedding cake toppers, and bridal accessories. How long have you been in business? 3 yrs
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Cutting Edge Construction Ltd. 2 Fernwood Crescent Brandon, M.B. R7A 2J6 204-573-4662 cory@cuttingedgehomes.ca www.cuttingedgehomes.ca
Habitat For Humanity-Brandon Chapter 630 Rosser Avenue Brandon, M.B. R7A 0K7 204-717-0602 mschonewille@habitat.mb.ca www.habitat.mb.ca
Ron’s Appliance Service 1-2430 Victoria Avenue Brandon, M.B. R7B 0M5 204-729-8758 dan.ronsappliance@gmail.com www.ronsappliance.com
Darlene Hart-Wolstenholme - Edward Jones Unit 2, 613-10th Street Brandon, M.B. R7A 4G6 204-727-0927 Deborah.bright@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.ca
MAC Safety Group Ltd. 2506-B Southern Avenue Brandon, M.B. R7B 0S4 204-761-2868 ralph@macgroup.ca www.macgroup.ca
Shreem Systems & Solutions Pvt. Ltd. 1-1202 20th Street Brandon, M.B. R7B 1M9 204-901-0310 nirmal@shreemsolutions.ca www.shreemsolutions.ca
Pantages on Park 1360 Park Avenue Brandon, M.B. R7A 1J2 204-727-2053 info@pantageshair.com www.pantageshair.com
Well Dressed Cakes by Brett 19 Granville Crescent Brandon, M.B. R7A 7V9 204-730-0997 brett@welldressedcakesbybrett.com www.welldressedcakesbybrett.com
Grasslands Group of Co. / SmartHire 244 1st Ave. N.E. Unit#5 Swift Current, SK S9H 2B4 204-725-0727 cory@smarthire.ca www.smarthire.ca
June 2016
3
EVENTS
Friday Coffee @ the Chamber Special Guests March 4 & 11
14th Annual Aboriginal Job Fair March 15, 2016
Local business women and entrepreneurs were celebrated for International Women’s Day March 4th. The Chamber got behind Winter Fair Fever decorating the office and hosting guest from the Provincial Exhibition to promote & celebrate the Manitoba Winter Fair in our business community.
The Chamber was pleased to partner with the Westman Inter-Provincial Association on Aboriginal Employment (IANE) for this annual event. 21 organizations were set for a full day of interaction with job seekers. Thank you to sponsors: Shoppers Mall, StarFM, and Manitoba Metis Federation
Sponsored by:
Luncheon: Provincial Election Leader Forum April 7, 2016 Moderated by Manitoba chambers of Commerce CEO Chuck Davidson, three provincial party leaders responded to questions on economic competitiveness, economic development and workforce issues that affect our business community. Thank you to our Luncheon Sponsor:
Luncheon: Manitoba Success Story March 10, 2016 Pure Anada started with a DIY kitchen makeup kit, then transformed into a global company with a dedicated manufacturing facility that can be found in 300 retail locations. They manufacture under their own brand, as well for other private label organic brands which landed them in the best 3 spots of a top 10 list!
133rd Annual Dinner & Awards Gala MLA Candidates Debates March 17, 2016 April 14, 2016
Thank you to Booth Sponsors: Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba and Centrallia 2016.
It may have been St. Patrick’s Day, and in the Manitoba Room, but members were treated to a night in Paris under the bistro lights, surrounded by trees and fountains. Highlighted by the presentation of the Business Achievement Awards, the night also included a five-course meal and comedian.
Thank you to our Luncheon sponsor:
Thank you to our Host sponsor:
4
The Brandon Sun, Westman Communications Group and the Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosted two debates featuring candidates running for the Brandon East and West ridings. The debate was broadcast live on TV and radio, and was seen by approximately 100 people in attendance at the Keystone Amphitheatre.
www.brandonchamber.ca
SIGNATURE EVENT
a Night in Paris
Thank you to the many sponsors and volunteers that made this evening possible. HOST, PLATINUM & GOLD SPONSORS
This year’s Annual Chamber Awards Gala celebrated our business community and honored leadership, involvement, and excellence with the presentation of our distinguished Business Excellence Awards. Congratulations to our award recipients:
Charlie Clark —Business Person of the Year Bill Cumming—Lifetime Business Builder Progressive Sanitation—Outstanding New Business Mazergroup—Business Excellence Barry Cullen—Community Service Award
SILVER PLUS—MNP LLP, NetSet Communications & I-Netlink Wireless, Westoba Credit Union Ltd. SILVER—Behlen Industries LP, Canad Inns Destination Centre Brandon, Guild Insurance Brokers Inc., HUB Internatinal STRATA Benefits Consulting, Leech Printing Ltd., Manitoba Public Insurance, Maple Leaf Fresh Foods Inc., RBC Royal Bank, Remington’s Restaurant, West-Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, Workers Compensation Board, Zeke’s Quality Jewellers Ltd. CHAMPAGNE—Sunrise Credit Union BRONZE— Benmarks, Brandon Wheat Kings, Browns Social House, Canexus Chemicals Canada LP, Gonetree Tree Services, Royal Oak Inn & Suites, Vanguard Credit Union Limited, We Care Home Health Services, Western Financial Group SUPPORTER—Blinds by Anita, Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers, Dick Agencies, Leon's Furniture Superstore ANNUAL DINNER COMMITTEE Karla Dane (Meighen Haddad LLP), Terry Carlisle (Cando Rail Services), Stacie Bourgeois (Westoba Credit Union), Brad Danielson (Benmarks), Sheila Gonty (Gonetree Tree Services), Meredyth Leech (Leech Printing), Sharon Shepherd (West-fit Physiotherapy), Katrina Sigurdson (The Party Professionals & Rental Co.), Robbie Zetariuk (NetSet Communications & I-Netlink Wireless) SERVICE GROUPS ACC Interactive Media Arts Students, Brandon Sunset Rotary, Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba, Keystone Centre
June 2016
5
RECOMMENDED READING President’s Message (Cont’d from page 1)
community. Giving our post-secondary institutions the flexibility to be responsive to prevailing conditions in the job market gives students, businesses and the institutions a better chance at success. It’s been a hectic, whirlwind year at the Chamber, but an experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world. It would seem apropos to rattle off a grocery list of all the things that the Chamber has accomplished this year, but in lieu of that, I can wholeheartedly say that there wasn’t a moment that the Chamber wasn’t busy working on behalf of the Brandon business community. Between events, elections, networking and advocacy - I truly believe that the Chamber is making a difference.
Speaking of making a difference, It’s been incredibly rewarding working with the Chamber Staff who do not get enough credit for the work that they do. It’s been humbling working with the smart, talented, and driven volunteers on our board and committees. I’ve learned a lifetime’s worth of lessons, and look forward to becoming one of the Past Presidents upon which I’ve relied upon for guidance and advice. Thank you for a fun and rewarding year.
Jordan Ludwig President Jordan can be reached at president@brandonchamber.ca
2016 WESTMAN
CONFERENCE SOLUTION FOCUSED HUM AN RESOURCES Save the Date: Wednesday, October 5th, 2016
Recommended Reading… Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from the World of Wall Street By John Brooks
Chronicling events like the catastrophic launch of the Ford Edsel and Xerox's explosive growth in its early years shows how iconic companies were defined by a particular moment of fame or notoriety. These notable and fascinating accounts are just as relevant today to understanding the intricacies of corporate life as they were when the events happened. Stories about Wall Street are infused with drama and adventure and reveal the machinations and volatile nature of the world of finance. Long-time New Yorker contributor John Brooks’ insightful reportage is so full of personality and critical detail that whether he is looking at the astounding market crash of 1962, the collapse of a well-known brokerage firm, or the bold attempt by American bankers to save the British pound, one gets the sense that history repeats itself.
6
The 2016-2017 Chamber year is upon us! Please look for your membership invoice that went out June 1st via email.
If you have any questions regarding your invoice, please contact Tanya 204-571-5340 or info@brandonchamber.ca
www.brandonchamber.ca
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Attracting Specialized Talent
W
ith today’s mobile labour force, Brandon, like many small cities across North America, struggles to attract specialized talent. Everyone knows that a small city simply cannot compete against the sports, culture, cuisine, private schools, retail amenities and spousal employment opportunities that a major city has to offer. At the same time, we know that small cities don’t have the drawbacks typically associated with a major city, such as horrendous traffic, long commutes, high cost of living, high crime rates and impersonal businesses and neighbours. It is widely understood that when a company is recruiting from outside their community they not only have to convince the candidate to make the move, they have to convince the family. If the spouse and family aren’t on board, there is a high probability that the offer of employment will be declined. Experts say that successful recruitment of key candidates to smaller, less-glamorous locales requires a good understanding of the unique benefits the community has to offer, a full appreciation of the allure of larger cities and creating a personal connection. Basically we need to be able to connect the business and community’s offering with the candidates needs, in an honest and transparent way. Long term success depends on not only selling the company and community’s attributes but discussing potential downsides up front. Economic Development Brandon offers two initiatives to assist Brandon businesses in recruiting key candidates. The first being a Guided City Tour and the second being the Trailing Spouse Initiative. Businesses who are recruiting specialized talent to Brandon can contact the
June 2016
Economic Development Brandon (EDB) office and request a City tour for the candidate(s) being interviewed. EDB staff, or one of their volunteer community champions, will spend a bit of time understanding what matters to the candidate and their family and then adjust the city tour to ensure Brandon’s attributes showcased align with the candidate’s priorities. To date, 68% of the candidates for whom EDB conducted a city tour have accepted the employment offer. The Trailing Spouse Initiative takes advantage of one of Brandon’s strengths: connectivity and strong personal and professional networks. Once a company has successfully recruited a key candidate and the family has settled in Brandon, at times, their continued employment becomes uncertain if the trailing spouse is unable to find employment. EDB offers a trailing spouse initiative that strives to connect appropriate Brandon employment opportunities with spouses of individuals that have been hired to fill specialized or key positions, in an effort to strengthen the likelihood that the recent hire will remain in Brandon. EDB can also be contacted when a company is faced with the prospect of losing a key employee due to trailing spouse employment challenges. They will be asked to provide an overview of skill sets, training and area of employment being sought, and will relay the information within relevant networks to try and connect the trailing spouse with employment opportunities.
If you have any questions on either the City Tour or trailing Spouse Initiative, please contact Economic Development Brandon at 204.729.2132 or econdev@brandon.ca.
7
Chamber at a Glance is published six times per year by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce 1043 Rosser Avenue | Brandon, MB R7A 0L5 Phone: (204) 571-5340 | Fax: (204) 571-5347
info@brandonchamber.ca www.brandonchamber.ca
EDITING & DESIGN Brandon Chamber of Commerce
PRINTING Leech Printing Ltd.
2015-2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jordan Ludwig—President Brandon Business Interiors
Terry Burgess—Vice President RBC Royal Bank
Tami Rae Clements—Secretary/Treasurer NetSet Communications & I-Netlink Wireless Todd Birkhan—Past President BDO Canada LLP
Frank Arndt myITsource/MTS Connect - Corral Centre
Terry Carlisle Cando Rail Services Ltd.
Greg Crisanti Tim Hortons
Karla Dane Meighen Haddad LLP
Jeff Hood MNP LLP
Karen MacDonald Assiniboine Community College
Bonnie Nay-Draper Entrepreneurship Manitoba
Jordan Trotter C & C Rentals
Jason Thorpe Thorpe Construction Ltd.
Rosa Villamizar Behlen Industries LP
CHAMBER STAFF
Provincial Chamber Reacts to Debut Budget
T
he release of the provincial budget offers no real surprises but does lead to cautious concern moving forward for the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC).
While sticking to many items already announced during the April campaign, MCC is pleased to see the government work towards addressing two of the biggest concerns for Manitoba businesses: economic competitiveness and workforce. Training the current and next generation of workers will be critical for our future. Increasing investment in education and training by 1.4% provides a good start. Where the extra money goes and how it impacts the training facilities will be important to see. Companies are looking for specific workers; the training investments must reflect their needs. The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is also buoyed by the initial look at addressing our economic competitiveness gap with our jurisdictions. The decision to include indexing of the Basic Personal Exemption will not bring us on par with jurisdictions, like Saskatchewan, but begins the process to have Manitobans keep more of their money. However, if there is a glaring issue, it is the plan to achieve a balanced budget over the next eight years. This will leave Manitoba in a vulnerable position, and one that will be out of the control of the government should there be another economic slowdown. “Setting a goal to reach a balanced budget within the next eight years is a bit surprising,” said MCC President and CEO Chuck Davidson. “That would mean, assuming the reach the target within their stated window, would mean 16 years without a balanced budget. That will not the business community with confidence moving forward.” Over the last two years, MCC has championed a sustainable investment formula, 96/4, for the tourism industry. The increase of more than $3 million for Travel Manitoba achieves that goal. While it still ranks Manitoba last when it comes to tourism funding, this increase is what Travel Manitoba and the industry has been looking for to increase marketing and increase tax revenue collected by the province. “This increase in Travel Manitoba’s budget is a strong example of this government, and the former government, that tourism is an investment in Manitoba,” said Davidson. Budget 2016 reminds Manitobans and the business community of the challenges that lie ahead. It also sets the stage for further discussions with the government to work towards a more aggressive approach to returning Manitoba to balance and fiscal growth. The Power of the Chamber Network Through your Brandon Chamber of Commerce membership, you are part of the Chamber network which is supported by the Canadian and Manitoba Chambers of Commerce
Carolynn Cancade General Manager
Allison Reville Events & Communications Coordinator
Twyla Adamchuk Membership & Marketing Coordinator
Tanya Lysack Office Administration Coordinator
8
Who we are: The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an independent, membership funded, non-profit organization that represents Brandon business from the grassroots level.
Our Mission: To encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business environment favorable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.
www.brandonchamber.ca