THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Chamber at a Chamber at a
A Message from Your General Manager
NATIONALENGAGEMENT&ADVOCACY
As we conclude another eventful month, I’m thrilled to share key updates and give you a glimpse of what’s on the horizon for the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of joining our President and Vice President in Halifax to represent our Chamber at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Annual General Meeting and Convention, as well as the Canadian Chamber Executives of Canada annual professional development conference. These events allowed us to connect with chambers across the country, exchange innovative ideas, and discuss policies that will directly benefit our members here in Brandon.
Following Halifax, our Chamber participated in a series of impactful meetings in Ottawa with community leaders from our region. Representing Brandon alongside Westman Immigrant Services, CARM, Assiniboine College, the City of Brandon, and the Province of Manitoba, we supported our community’s interests at the federal level. This cooperative approach between businesses, community organizations, and government amplifies our collective voice and strengthens our impact.
Our delegation also had the opportunity to meet with Candace Laing, the new President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, shortly after the Canadian Chamber's national meetings. This timely discussion underscored our shared goals and the importance of continued collaboration.
This month, we were also pleased to host the final Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) Economic Development Tour of the season, spotlighting Brandon and the Westman region. Over two packed days, government officials, business leaders, and community representatives explored our region and saw firsthand why Brandon is a thriving hub of innovation and industry.
Highlights included visits to industry leaders such as Glendale Industries, where participants observed potable water tanker production, and CFB Shilo, where 400 soldiers were preparing to deploy to Latvia. This visit showcased the base’s significant economic impact, contributing over $120 million annually to the local economy through spending and salaries.
Additional stops included Greenstone Building Products, Behlen Steel Buildings, and Bushel Plus —all underscoring Brandon’s strengths in job creation, industry leadership, and innovation.
Looking ahead, we are excited about our upcoming November luncheon featuring Stephen Tapp, the Chief Economist at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Stephen will share valuable insights about our economic landscape and trends that are shaping the future of our economy.
You may have seen a new face at the Chamber, we are delighted to introduce Godspower Utawure as our new Membership Coordinator. Godspower brings a wealth of experience in communication and marketing strategy and we’re thrilled to have him join our team. He will be an invaluable resource for our members, working to strengthen relationships, assist with member services, and contribute to the growth of our Chamber.
We are also gearing up for this year’s Business Awards, where we will celebrate and recognize local leaders for their contributions to our community at our Awards Gala. These awards highlight the dedication and achievements of businesses and individuals who exemplify outstanding accomplishment and make a significant impact in Brandon. Visit our website today to nominate a deserving business, employer, or employee for special recognition.
We’re Hiring!
EXCITINGOPPORTUNITYFORANEVENTS&MARKETINGCOORDINATOR
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce an opening for an Events and Marketing Coordinator! This dynamic role is perfect for someone with a flair for organizing memorable events and a passion for creative marketing. If you’re a detail-oriented, community-minded individual who thrives in a fastpaced environment, this position could be the perfect fit.
WhatYou’llBeDoing
As the Events and Marketing Coordinator, you’ll play a vital role in planning, promoting, and executing all Chamber events, including our Women of Westman Conference, our Annual Awards Gala and Golf Tournament. You’ll handle everything from logistics and vendor coordination to sponsorships and post-event reporting, ensuring each event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impact.
Alongside event management, you’ll lead the Chamber’s marketing efforts. This includes managing our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), maintaining our website, creating digital marketing strategies, and designing print materials. You’ll also oversee Chamber publications, including our monthly Chamber at a Glance, the weekly Chamber Insider, and our annual report.
KeyResponsibilities
Event Planning and Coordination: Organize and execute a range of Chamber events, including networking events, workshops, and fundraisers.
Marketing and Digital Presence: Develop and manage the Chamber’s online presence, overseeing social media, website updates, and email marketing campaigns.
Publication Management: Produce and distribute Chamber publications, such as monthly newsletters and annual reports.
Sponsorship and Relationship Building: Work with sponsors to fulfill partnership agreements, and build relationships with local businesses and vendors.
Team Collaboration: In our close-knit office, flexibility is key—you’ll often assist team members with other tasks, especially during busy event seasons.
IsThisRoleforYou?
The ideal candidate is organized, outgoing, and creative. You should have excellent communication skills, the ability to juggle multiple projects, and a love for connecting with people. Experience in event planning, digital marketing, and social media is a plus, as is familiarity with graphic design.
Qualifications:
Diploma or degree in business, marketing, communications, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Experience in event planning, including budgeting and vendor coordination
Social media and digital marketing experience
Basic graphic design skills are an asset
WhyJoinOurTeam?
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment. As the Events and Marketing Coordinator, you’ll make a meaningful impact in our community, helping local businesses thrive while building your skills in event coordination and marketing.
HowtoApply:
Ready to make a difference? Send your resume and cover letter to Olivia Boyce, General Manager, at gm@brandonchamber.ca. Join us in supporting and celebrating our Brandon community—apply today!
events lineup
FIRSTFRIDAYCOFFEE
NOV 1, 2024 | 9:00 - 10:00 AM | 1043 ROSSER AVE
FREE EVENT, NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED!
BUSINESSAFTER5
NOV 6, 2024 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM | 1212 18TH ST
FREE EVENT - REGISTRATION REQUIRED!
CHAMBER101
NOV 7, 2024 | 10:00 - 11:00 AM | 1043 ROSSER AVE
FREE EVENT - REGISTRATION REQUIRED!
ECONOMICINSIGHTSLUNCHEON
NOV 21, 2024 | 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM | UCT KEYSTONE REGISTRATION CLOSES NOVEMBER 18TH.
OCTOBER LUNCHEON
CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS
EVENT RECAP
On October 24, we hosted our Celebrating Small Business Success Luncheon at the MNP Keystone Centre, where over 250 members of the business community gathered to honor local entrepreneurs and their contributions to Brandon’s economic growth. Joining us were special guests from the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Tour, who helped celebrate the achievements of over 70 local businesses marking milestone anniversaries, with 10 businesses present in recognitionofSmallBusinessWeek.
SpencerDay’sAddress
Spencer Day, President and CEO of Progressive Westman, delivered a powerful keynote that captivated the audience, sharing not only his journey through business ownership but also his reflections on resilience, leadership, and community. Day’s story highlighted the values of teamwork and tenacity, qualities that have guided Progressive Westman’s growth and success in sanitation,cleaningequipment,andrentalservices.
In a heartfelt recounting, Day spoke about the devastating fire that struck Progressive Westman’s facility in October 2023, which tested the strength of both his team and his own resolve. He shared how, with the support of his <family= at Progressive and the broader Brandon community, the business was able to swiftly regroup and continue operations, ensuring no disruption to their clients. <Our people were incredible — they’re truly family,= Day reflected, attributing the company’s resilience to the commitment and unity within his team. He also described how the Brandon community stepped up during this difficult time, reminding everyone of the incredible impact of community solidarity in overcoming adversity.
Day’s message resonated deeply, as he encouraged other business owners to <lean on your people, and let your people lean on you= when facing challenges. He emphasized that the strength of a business lies in its peopleandthatnurturingtheserelationships
<Ourpeoplewereincredible—they’re trulyfamily,=-SpencerDay
is key to achieving long-term success. His inspiring journey reinforced the importance of collaboration, dedication, and the unwavering support of the local communityinbuildingasuccessfulbusiness.
CelebratingBusinessMilestones
In addition to Day’s moving address, certificates of achievement were awarded to recognize the significant contributions of local businesses to Brandon’s economy and community. This event underscored the vital role small businesses play in fostering growth and development, reminding attendees of the power of communityandcollaboration.
FromtheChamber
As the voice for business in Brandon, the Chamber is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of small businesses and the resilient spirit of our community. Spencer Day’s story serves as a reminder of how integral thesebusinessesaretoourcity’sstrengthandeconomic progress. By supporting our local entrepreneurs, we continuetobuildaprosperousBrandonthatbenefitsall.
ThankYou
Sponsors: SV Benefits, Westcan HR, Wilder Institute, and the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce. Special thanks to the Keystone Centre and our AV & Media Team at Trident Xfortheirsupportinmakingthiseventasuccess.
We also want to thank everyone who joined us in celebrating our small business community and for their ongoing commitment to Brandon's growth and prosperity.
Together, we look forward to supporting more milestones as our local businesses continue to inspireanddriveeconomicprogressinBrandon. November 2024
leadershiprecap
In October, our leadership team joined the Economic Development Tour organized by the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at some of the region’s key economic players. The tour began at CFB Shilo, where we explored the base’s significant impact on local employment and community connections.
We then visited Greenstone Building Products, gaining insights into their cutting-edge sustainable construction materials, followed by a stop at Assiniboine College. Here, we enjoyed lunch and learned about the college’s role in building a skilled workforce that aligns with local industry needs. We also had the chance to see Assiniboine’s Victoria Avenue East campus and its specialized training facilities in action.
The tour continued with a visit to Behlen Industries, where we explored their innovative manufacturing operations that contribute to local and international markets. We wrapped up the day at Bushel Plus, discovering how their agricultural innovations are enhancing productivity across farms in Manitoba and beyond.
Overall, the Economic Development Tour provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with influential industries that drive economic growth and support sustainability in our region. This experience deepened our understanding of Manitoba’s diverse economic landscape and the vital role each of these organizations plays in building a resilient future.
May 8, 2025 | Keystone Centre, Brandon
Support the BRHC Foundation’s Thrive Conference, a revitalizing half-day event dedicated to supporting, inspiring, and providing practical tools to our regional healthcare workers. Contact Jessica to learn more about the sponsorship packages and see how you can support our local healthcare workers!
Jessica Saler | 204-578-2772 | jessicasaler@brhcfoundation.ca
brhcfoundation.ca/thriveconference
Welcome New Members!
Cheer Accounting
To ensure that your business is accurately represented in our annual Roster Book, please take a moment to update your details through the Member Information Centre (MIC). This ensures that our Roster Book fully represents your business to the community.
HowtoUpdateYourInformation
To help you navigate the process, we’ve included a step-by-step guide to updating your company information in the MIC. Checkitouthere!
Keep your profile current to make sure your business appears accurately in the Roster Book!
Did
YouKnow:YourMICprofilecandosomuchmore!Youcanalso:
Register for Chamber events quickly and easily
Post job openings to reach a local audience on our website
Promote your company’s events to the community through our online calendar
Offer exclusive member-to-member deals and publish news releases
Maximize your membership by making full use of these features to engage with our network and showcase what your business has to offer!
NominationsNowOpen
Welcome Godspower Utawure!
WearethrilledtointroduceournewMembershipCoordinator!
Godspower brings a wealth of expertise in communication and marketing strategy to the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. With a master’s degree in media & communicationandapostgraduatediplomainIntegratedMarketingCommunication, Godspower is well-equipped to enhance our membership engagement and support Brandon businessesinconnectingwithourChamberNetwork.
Godspower's innovative approach and passion for community development align perfectly with our mission. We are confident that Godspower will foster strong relationships and contribute to the continued successofourmembers.
Welcome, Godspower! We look forward to your positiveimpactonourbusinesscommunity!
advocacyrecap
In October, we at the Brandon Chamber of Commerce joined a delegation of community leaders in Ottawa to advocate for the Brandon region at the federal level. Although our President Lois Ruston was unable to attend, our Chamber was well-represented by two Executive Committee members and General Manager Olivia Boyce.
This trip to Ottawa reflects our ongoing commitment to championing Brandon’s interests on the national stage, collaborating with key partners such as Westman Immigrant Services, CARM, Assiniboine College, the City of Brandon, and the Province of Manitoba. Working together allows us to amplify our voice, highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges that Brandon faces while reinforcing the importance of targeted support for our region’s economic growth.
Our delegation also had the timely opportunity to meet with Candace Laing, the new President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. This meeting was particularly valuable, as it took place shortly after the Canadian Chamber’s national gathering in Halifax, strengthening our alignment with broader advocacy efforts and reinforcing our connection within the national Chamber network.
We remain dedicated to building partnerships that allow us to advocate effectively on behalf of our members and our community. By presenting a cohesive, consistent message to all levels of government, we’re working proactively to address regional needs and to secure a strong future for Brandon. Together, we can ensure that our community’s voice is heard and that we’re positioned to support ongoing prosperity and growth.
BoardofDirectors
LOISRUSTON|PRESIDENT
YWCA Westman
JENNIFERLUDWIG|VICEPRESIDENT
Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd.
EMELIOBROWN |SECRETARY-TREASURER
Intritech Marketing
MATTBERG
Livingstone Outdoor & Livingstone
Landscaping Ltd.
TILDAFORTIER
Greenstone Building Products
MEREDYTHLEECH
Leech Group
BRENTMILLER
Victoria Inn
ChamberStaff
OLIVIABOYCE
General Manager
DESTINYMALUGA
Events & Marketing Coordinator
GODSPOWERUTAWURE
Membership Coordinator
Acknowledgments
ROBSTARKELL
West-Can HR Solutions
CHRISFINLEY Mazergroup
KARINGRIFFIN
Alternative Group
AMBERWHITE
Anytime Fitness
CHARLESTWEED
Tweedia Social Media Agency
ENVERNAIDOO
Westman Immigrant Services
DESIGN,EDITING,WRITING&COMPILATION
DESTINY MALUGA
MOSTPHOTOGRAPHY,INCLUDINGEVENTPHOTOGRAPHY
TRIDENT EVENT GROUP
We acknowledge that Brandon is located on Treaty 2 territory, traditional lands of the Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Anishinaabe/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis Nation. We honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples to our community.
SETTING
THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an independent, membership funded, non-profit organization that represents Brandon business from the grassroots level.
Our mission is to encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business environment, favourable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.