THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Chamber at a Chamber at a
A Message from Your General Manager
KICK-STARTINGANEWSEASON
As summer winds down, there’s a noticeable shift in activity at the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. The end of the season signals the start of our busy event calendar, and this year, we’re excited about what’s in store.
Our luncheon lineup this year is particularly strong, featuring a mix of local and national speakers who will provide valuable insights on a variety of topics relevant to our business community. Whether you’re looking to gain new perspectives or stay informed on industry trends, these luncheons are not to be missed.
We’re also looking forward to our Business After 5 events. These gatherings offer a unique opportunity for Chamber members to get a behind-the-scenes look at what local businesses are doing. It’s a chance to network in a relaxed setting while learning more about the innovative work happening right here in Brandon.
This year’s Leadership Brandon participants have been selected, and we’re excited to see what they will accomplish. This program continues to be a cornerstone of our efforts to develop strong, capable leaders within our community, and we’re confident this year’s cohort will rise to the challenge.
Our committees —Workforce Alignment, Business Development, and Government Relations—are also beginning to come together. They’re in the process of setting their goals for the year, focusing on initiatives that will drive growth and address the challenges facing our members. These committees play a crucial role in shaping the Chamber’s agenda and ensuring we’re meeting the needs of the business community.
As part of our ongoing efforts to elevate Brandon’s business community, we’re excited to bring provincial representatives to our city. Whether it’s through economic bus tours, roundtables, or direct meetings with our board, we’re committed to ensuring that the voices of our local businesses are heard at the provincial level. These interactions are crucial for fostering strong relationships and advocating for the needs and interests of our members. We’re ready to once again showcase the strength and innovation of Brandon’s business community and work together to drive economic growth in our region.
The planning we’ve done over the summer is nearly complete, and we’re eager to move from preparation to execution. We’re confident that this year’s events and initiatives will provide value to our members and help strengthen the Brandon business community.
We look forward to having you join us as we kick off another successful year at the Chamber. Whether you’re attending a luncheon, participating in Business After 5, attending a First Friday Coffee or getting involved with one of our committees, there are plenty of opportunities to engage and make a difference. Let’s work together to make this year a success for all of us.
Connor Ketchen
events lineup
CHAMBER101
SEPT 5, 2024 | 10:00 - 11:00 AM | 1043 ROSSER AVE FREE EVENT, REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
FIRSTFRIDAYCOFFEE
SEPT 6, 2024 | 9:00 - 10:00 AM | 1043 ROSSER AVE NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
CHAMBERANNUALAGM
SEPT 10, 2024 | 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | VIRTUAL FREE EVENT. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
zoom link will be emailed to those registered*
BUSINESSAFTERFIVE
SEPT 12, 2024 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM | 1175 18TH ST FREE EVENT, REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
ECONOMICRECONCILITAIONLUNCHEON
SEPT 19, 2024 | 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM | CLARION HOTEL REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 16TH.
EVENTS
2024 - 2025 EVENT LINE-UP
SEPTEMBER
5th: Chamber 101
6th: First Friday Coffee
10th: Annual AGM
12th: Business After Five
19th:PathwaystoEconomicReconciliationLuncheon
OCTOBER
3rd: Chamber 101
FEBRUARY
6th: Chamber 101
7th: First Friday Coffee
20th:EmpoweringYouthRetentionLuncheon
TBA: Business After Five
MARCH
5th: Women of Westman Conference
6th: Chamber 101
4th: First Friday Coffee
21st: Small Business Economic Workshop
24th: Celebrating Small Business Success Luncheon
NOVEMBER
1st: First Friday Coffee
7th: Chamber 101
21st: Economic Insights
TBA: Business After Five
DECEMBER
5th: Chamber 101
6th: First Friday Coffee
11th: Holiday Happy Hour
JANUARY
9th: Chamber 101
10th: First Friday Coffee
16th: The Future of Agriculture Luncheon
7th: First Friday Coffee
20th:BuildingBridges&CommunityLuncheon
APRIL
3rd: Chamber 101
4th: First Friday Coffee
17th: State of the City Luncheon
TBA: Business After Five
MAY
1st: Annual Awards Gala
8th: Chamber 101
15th: State of the Province Luncheon
TBA: Business After Five
JUNE
5th: State of the Chamber Luncheon
6th: First Friday Coffee & Summer BBQ
TBA: Golf Tournament
TBA: Chamber 101
Registrationformosteventsisnowopen!Besuretocheckoureventcalendarfordetails.Fullregistration foralleventswillbeavailablestartinginSeptember.Don’tmissout—reserveyourspottoday!
POLICY MATTERS: ECONOMIC RECONCILIATION
POLICYSOLUTIONS
There are a number of government and corporate policies that can help advance economic reconciliation. Here are just a few specific examples:
WHAT’SNEXT?
Economic reconciliation is complex, and while policy solutions may seem far-removed in the realm of politics and government bureaucracy, there is no shortage of tangible actions businesses of all sizes and sectors can take.
ForEmployers
Identify and create opportunities for mentorship programs that can support Indigenous employees and foster their professional growth.
Establish committees or mechanisms to create culturally safe work environments that accommodate the diverse needs and backgrounds of Indigenous employees.
Recognize that the Indigenous community is not homogenous. Each Indigenous nation, reserve or community has different traditions and tailored approaches to address their specific needs and challenges are necessary.
Encourage the development of ideas and initiatives that promote collaboration and modify training programs to facilitate the hiring and inclusion of Indigenous individuals.
Recognize and support initiatives like Orange Shirt Day to raise awareness about the experiences and challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
Address and eliminate abusive behaviours and practices in the workplace.
We’dliketothanktheIndigenousvoicesandleadership intheCanadianChamberNetworkwhoinformedthe contentandrecommendationsincludedinthisedition ofPolicyMatters. Formoreinformationandtoaccessthefullarticle,visit:https://chamber.ca/policy-matters-economic-reconciliation/
2024-2025 EVENTS
JOIN US AS A SEASON SEAT HOLDER
SeasonSeats
Season seats are now available for purchase, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your business experience with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. As a Season Seat holder, you'll unlock exclusive benefits and access to our premier luncheons and events, designed to propel your business forward and foster meaningful connections within our community.
SecureYourSeatsToday
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to elevate your business experience. Secure your Season Seats today and take advantage of hassle-free registration and early bird pricing. Whether you opt for an individual seat or a full table of eight, investing in a Season Seat is an investment in your business's success.
IndividualSeasonSeat
$364.50 for the season
$40.50 per luncheon
$45.00 in total savings
ReferaNewMemberandEarn$150inMarketingCredit!
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 new member, you help grow our Chamber and gain valuable marketing opportunities. It's a win-win for everyone. Start referring today!
CHANGING LIVES TOGETHER
BECOME A CORPORATE MENTORING PARTNER!
EncouragestafftobecomeInSchoolMentors andallowthem1houreachweektomeet withtheirmentee(Oct-June)
SPONSOR A MATCH
BIG GROUP ACTIVITIES
Sponsormatchesata participatingschool ($5,000-$10,000)
SupportaCommunityBig/Littlematchforoneyear:$2,000
Sponsorthesebimonthlyactivitiestohelppromotepositiveconnection betweenBig/Littlematches,ouragencyandthecommunity:$500-$1,500
meet a member:
brandon friendshipcentre
How long has the Brandon Friendship Centre been servingourcommunity?
December 2025 will mark our 60th anniversary. To celebrate, we’ll be hosting a national meeting in July, bringing together Friendship Centres from across Canada.
WhatdoestheBrandonFriendshipCentredo?
When I started 40 years ago, the Centre operated from a single building with a bingo hall upstairs and a youth drop-in center downstairs. Now, we have nine locations, including one in Portage La Prairie. Our services span all ages, from prenatal nutrition to daycare, youth homelessness prevention, and FASD respite support. We also offer programs for adult education, community wellness, Indigenous languages, men’s group, and employment services, all open to community members.
What is coming up for the Brandon Friendship Centre thatyouareexcitedtoshare?
We’re excited about the upcoming opening of our youth safe lodge this fall. After three years of planning and renovation, this new space will offer six drop-in beds, hostel style, with 24-hour access, and three transitional units to support youth in finding permanent housing. Right now there’s not a lot of places youth can go, and we know how hard winter is.
We’ve also moved into our new space at 603 Princess Avenue. This location has our administration and finance offices, along with our board room, drop-in centre and the Bear Clan.
In the coming months, we’ll be hosting an open house tour across all our locations.
What is your favorite part of this work? If someone was considering getting involved as a staff member or volunteer at the Brandon FriendshipCentre,whatwouldyoutellthem?
Our volunteers and staff love the atmosphere of being here and helping people in our community. We work collaboratively with other resources and committees in Brandon, so when people come in, we can direct them to where they need to go and make sure they find the support they’re looking for. There is such a need to be there for people, and the Brandon Friendship Centre is there for people, they’re our number one priority.
Indigenous Eats is another new initiative, can youtellusmoreaboutit?
Everything they make is delicious. Indigenous Eats gives youth the opportunity to learn applied food business skills. The truck is booked every weekend, but you can watch Facebook to get the update on the weekly local location and hours of operation.
Menu items include bannock bison burgers, bannock smokie dogs, taco in a bag, and a local version of a beaver tail called <bison hide.= A standout dessert is the Indigenous Delight—a bannock bowl with rice pudding and saskatoon soup.
GAILCULLEN BRANDON FRIENDSHIPCENTRE
Welcoming Week - September 9 - 13 2024
You’reInvited!
The Brandon Local Immigration Partnership, in collaboration with partner organizations and all levels of government, is hosting a Welcoming Week event to celebrate the values and people that make our community welcoming to everyone.
Each day of the week features a unique event designed to help newcomers and immigrants integrate successfully and connect with local organizations:
September 9: Governance Day - Learn about government services and meet with Service Canada representatives.
September 10: Health and Wellness Day - Discover health services and privately-owned businesses offering wellness programs.
September 11: Employment Networking Day – Join the speed networking event hosted by WIS, RMIEC, and the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Match your talents with employers.
September 12: Let's Connect - Meet organizations offering housing support, youth and family programs, volunteer opportunities, and more.
September 13: Community BBQ and Cultural Celebration - Enjoy games, dance, and a PowWow Dance finale.
We are inviting businesses who are looking for new talent to participate in the event on September 11, it will run from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm. RMIEC will have a training on attracting, hiring, and retaining newcomer talent followed by a speed networking event with job seekers.
Join us in making Brandon a welcoming communit for all.
For inquiries, email lip@bnrc.ca or call 204-729-2490 ext. 112.
Please register on this link: Employment Networking Day Employer Registration Form
lip@bnrc.ca 204-729-2490 ext. 112
KATRINACASULLA
BRANDONLOCALIMMIGRATION
PARTNERSHIPCOORDINATOR
2024 - 2025 Sponsorship Opportunities
LUNCHEON BOOTH SPONSORSHIPS
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
LUNCHEON TABLE SPONSORSHIPS
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, contact events@brandonchamber.ca.
CHAMBER 101 EVENT SPONSORSHIPS
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: $500.00 per session
Event Sessions: First Thursday of Every Month | 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
For more information, contact Olivia at members@brandonchamber.ca.
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
ROBSTARKELL
West-Can HR Solutions
CHRISFINLEY
Mazergroup
KARINGRIFFIN
Alternative Group
AMBERWHITE
Anytime Fitness
CHARLESTWEED
Tweedia Social Media Agency
ENVERNAIDOO
Westman Immigrant Services
Acknowledgments
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.