2025 - 2026 BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ANNUAL REPORT brandonchamber.ca
info@brandonchamber.ca
204-571-5340
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
1
Table of Contents 2
Who we are
3
2025-2026 Board of Directors
4
President’s Message
5
The Chamber Network Overview of SEO Strategies Advocacy & Policy
03
6
04
Keyword Performance Analysis
7
Grow Brandon
05
On-Page Optimization Insights Engagement
8
Event Sponsors
10
Recognition & Celebration
12
Financial Report
14
Chamber Membership Chamber Events Chamber Marketing Strategic Plan
15 16 17 18
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
2
Who we are Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an independent, membership-funded, non-profit organization that represents Brandon, Manitoba business from the grassroots level.
Our Mission 03 Overview of SEO Strategies To encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business
04
Keyword Performance Analysis environment, favourable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.
05
Our Vision
On-Page Optimization Insights
A vibrant, growing organization with a diverse, inclusive membership that reflects the dynamic business environment in Brandon and delivers recognized value for its members. Through strategic partnerships with business and community organizations and leadership in the chamber movement, the Brandon Chamber is a catalyst for business development and growth in the region. Respected at all levels of government and the community as a highly credible and influential organization, the Chamber is the voice of Brandon’s business community.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
3
2025-2026
Board of Directors
Emelio Brown
Jennifer Ludwig
Vice-President
Intritech Marketing
Chris Finley
Secretary-Treasurer Mazergroup
President
Lois Ruston
Past President
Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd.
YWCA
Enver Naidoo Director
Westman Immigrant Services
Emmy Sanderson Director
Brandon Downtown BIZ
Amber White
Brent Miller
Director
Director
Anytime Fitness
Victoria Inn
Lisa Andrew
Karin Griffin
BDO Canada LLP
Alternative Group
Director
Director
Charles Tweed
Matt Berg
Director
Director
Tweedia Social Media Agency
Livingstone Landscaping Ltd. & Living Stone Outdoor
Lyndsay Seafoot
Rob Starkell
Curbridge
West-Can HR
Director
Director
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
4
President’s Message As we reflect on the Chamber year that was 2025-2026, I can’t help thinking about how fast it all went. But as they say, “Time flies when you’re having fun”. And a fun year it was – with a whole lot of hard work thrown in between. In June 2025, we found ourselves in the position of rebuilding the Chamber staff from the ground up, first implementing a search committee for a new General Manager. We found Curtis Hullick, who brought with him
Overview of SEO Strategies
his wealth of experience in organizational leadership,
policy development, and strategic planning. In August he hit the ground running, hiring the team we now
Keyword Performance Analysis
recognize at the Chamber today, while implementing
03 04
the Chamber’s newly developed three-year strategic plan.
On-Page Optimization Insights
05
This strategic plan kept our committees busy working towards ensuring our members recognized the benefits of chamber membership while tackling the issues of the day. The Workforce Alignment Committee connected the dots between labour market needs and the education our institutions provide. The Government Relations Committee, through their assessment of provincial, municipal, and school division budgets, ensured that funds were being spent responsibly and that Brandon continued to be on the Provincial radar. And last, but certainly not least, our Business Development Committee took the topic of Retail Theft head on, striking a working group of local businesses. Their concerns, along with suggestions to help find solutions, were taken to our city representatives, MLAs, and police force for consideration. In turn, this hard work led to an announcement made by the Premier at our State of the Province Luncheon of funding for 4 new police officer positions directly aimed at taking on retail theft. If you take anything away from this past year of the Brandon Chamber, it is that continued conversations with the right people, in the right rooms, makes things happen. Advocacy is a tough thing. It takes time and perseverance, and most often the results don’t show themselves for months, or even years. But one thing I’ve learned over my time as President of the Brandon Chamber is that we don’t give up. If there is an issue that is important to our members, it will be discussed and brought up each and every time we have an opportunity to do so. I am very proud to have worked with wonderful people during my time as president. Although there is an “I” in President, it is wholeheartedly a team effort, from the Board of Directors all the way through to the Executive Committee and Chamber staff. This team works for you – the members. And I have the utmost confidence in Emelio as we move into his 2026-27 year as Chamber President. Thank you for a great year,
Jennifer Ludwig 2025-2026 Chamber President
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
5
The Chamber Network The Brandon Chamber continued to strengthen its relationships with Chambers and business leaders across Manitoba and Canada. Our team attended events
such
as
the
Canadian
Chamber
of
Commerce AGM, the Chamber of Commerce Executives
of
Canada
Conference,
the
CCEM
ofEconomic SEO Strategies Conference and theOverview Manitoba Summit.
03
These events provided opportunities to exchange
04
ideas,
learn
Keyword Performance Analysis
from
the
experiences
of
other
Chambers and explore best practices that can be applied within ourOn-Page own organization. also Optimization They Insights
05
allowed us to participate in important discussions about economic growth, collaboration and the challenges and opportunities facing businesses at the local, provincial and national levels. Our team also participated in a regional AI training session offered through the Manitoba AI Pathways Program delivered by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and in partnership with the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. The session provided practical insight into how Chambers and local businesses
can
use
artificial
intelligence
responsibly to improve productivity, streamline operations and support future growth. By staying connected and engaged through these conferences
and
training
opportunities,
we
continue to bring valuable knowledge, tools and perspectives back to our members and strengthen the support we provide to Brandon’s business community.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
6
Advocacy & Policy Business Development Comittee In response to growing concerns from members, the Business Development Committee led a coordinated effort to address retail theft and its impact on local businesses. The Committee brought together business leaders, the Brandon Police Service, government representatives and industry partners to discuss concerns and identify practical solutions. These efforts contributed to
03
continued advocacy at alloflevels of government and helped secure provincial Overview SEO Strategies funding for four new police officer positions focused on retail theft and public safety.
Keyword Performance Analysis
Government Relations Comittee
04 05
Insights The Government On-Page RelationsOptimization Committee continued to represent the interests of Brandon’s business community through its review of provincial, municipal and school division budgets. The Committee assessed how public funds were being allocated and identified opportunities to advocate for responsible spending and business-friendly policies. Through ongoing engagement with elected officials, the Committee worked to keep Brandon’s priorities visible and ensure the region remained part of important government conversations.
Workforce Alignment Comittee The Workforce Alignment Committee focused on strengthening connections between the needs of local employers and the education and training provided by regional institutions. By bringing together representatives from business, education and workforce development, the Committee identified gaps, shared labour market insights and explored opportunities for greater collaboration. This work helped ensure that workforce priorities remained aligned with the evolving needs of Brandon and Westman’s business community.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
7
Grow Brandon is a collaborative alliance that brings together leaders from business and industry, education, Indigenous organizations and all levels of government. It provides a
03
Overview of SEO Strategiescoordinating table where partners can share information, align priorities and work together to
04
support Brandon’s long-term economic growth. Keyword Performance Analysis
05
On-Page Optimization Insights
This year marked the first Grow Brandon Summit, bringing partners together to discuss economic priorities, infrastructure needs and future opportunities. The Summit provided an important forum to strengthen collaboration across organizations and governments while highlighting Brandon’s role in provincial and national economic strategies.
Over the next three years, Grow Brandon will receive $575,000,
a
combined including
investment $300,000
of
from
PrairiesCan, $150,000 from the Province of Manitoba and $125,000 from the City of Brandon. This funding will support annual economic summits, promote Brandon as a destination for business and investment, and help develop sector-specific initiatives that contribute to the region’s long-term growth.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Engagement
*The Chamber fiscal year is June 1st 2025 to May 31st 2026*
Luncheon Series This past year, our luncheon series brought together business leaders, community partners and decision-makers to discuss the issues and opportunities shaping Brandon and Westman. Our speakers shared valuable perspectives on the economy, government, education, innovation and workforce development.
03
Attendance increased by 7 per cent over last Overviewvalue of SEO Strategies year, reflecting the continued of these events. Each luncheon created opportunities for members to learn, build relationships and connect with leaders from across the province Keyword Performance Analysis and beyond.
04
BusinessOn-Page After 5Optimization Insights
05
This year’s Business After 5 events brought members together for valuable networking, new connections and a closer look at local businesses. Thank you to all our hosts for helping make each event a success.
First Friday Coffee This year’s First Friday Coffees continued to be a member favourite, providing a welcoming and casual atmosphere to connect with the Chamber, build relationships and catch up with fellow members.
Women of Westman The
sixth
annual
Women
of
Westman
Conference welcomed more than 400 women to the Keystone Centre for a day of inspiring speakers, engaging breakout sessions and meaningful networking. The event celebrated women in leadership while encouraging new ideas and connections across the region. Thank you to our generous sponsors for helping make the conference a success.
8
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Engagement
9
*The Chamber fiscal year is June 1st 2025 to May 31st 2026*
143rd Annual Business Achievement Awards The sold-out 143rd Annual Business Achievement Awards Gala welcomed more than 500 guests to the Keystone Centre to celebrate business excellence across Brandon and Westman. With the theme “It’s a Jungle Out There,” the evening recognized the leadership, resilience and community impact of local businesses and individuals. Congratulations to all nominees and award recipients, and thank you to our sponsors, volunteers and partners whose support made the evening possible.
Overview of SEO Strategies
03
Keyword Performance Analysis
04
On-Page Optimization Insights
05
35th Annual Golf Tournament The 35th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament welcomed 164 golfers to Wheat City Golf Course for a memorable day of networking, friendly competition and community connection. Congratulations to the winning team from Brandon Business Interiors, and thank you to our sponsors and participants for making this favourite Chamber tradition a success.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
10
Event Sponsors
*The Chamber fiscal year is June 1st 2025 to May 31st 2026*
Luncheons
Westman Communications Group Business Solutions
35th Annual Golf Tournament CPHR Manitoba
Brandon First
Koch Fertilizer Canada
Sunrise Credit Union
Unlimited
Compass Credit Union
Denray Tire Ltd.
St. John Ambulance - Brandon Branch
Alternative Group
myITsource
Hunt & Associates IG private
Assiniboine College
Wealth Management
Brandon University Business
Tommy Gun’s Original
Administration
Overview of SEO Barber Strategies Shop
Centum Mortgage Choice Livingstone Outdoor Intritech Marketing West-Can HR Wilder Institute
RBC Royal Bank Ember and Ash Counselling Inc. West-Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Keystone Centre Foundation Ducks Unlimited Canada Assiniboine College Student’s Association Inc. Brandon School Division Career Connections Inc. CFB Shilo Manitoba 4-H Council Inc Sentinel Safety Services Pattison Media Brandon Salutes United Way of Brandon & District Assiniboine College Continuing Studies Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Victoria Landing Retirement SV Benefits
Heritage Co-op
On-Page Optimization Insights Leech Group
Alternative Group
Residence
Bell MTS Dealer Shoppers Mall
Mcdonalds
Westman Communications Group Business Solutions IG Wealth Management Progressive Westman
03
McMunn & Yates Building Supplies St. John Ambulance Brandon Branch Universal Doors & Truck Accessories Western Financial Group Westman Communications Group Westoba Credit Union, A Division of Assiniboine Credit Union Workers Compensation Board Brandon Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers Ltd. Guild Insurance Group Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd. Blue Moon Water Inc. Chez Angela Bakery and Cafe Ltd. Forbidden Flavours Roastery & Cafe Sobeys Brandon West
Keystone Centre Ember and Ash Counselling Inc. Ducks Unlimited Canada
Corral Communications - A
Keyword Performance Analysis Goodlife Fitness Brandon
Patersons LLP
Business After 5
04
Assiniboine College Continuing Studies Pregnancy Support Centre of Westman Family Visions Inc
05 First Friday Coffee Tim Hortons Mcdonalds
Chamber 101 Multicook
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Event Sponsors
11
*The Chamber fiscal year is June 1st 2025 to May 31st 2026*
Women of Westman Conference Assiniboine Credit Union Budget Blinds of Southwest and Southeast Manitoba WeMB Super Thrifty Drugs Ltd. RBC Royal Bank
Overview of SEO Strategies
Wilder Institute
BDO Canada LLP
Keyword Performance Analysis
Koch Fertilizer Canada ULC Career Connections Inc Brandon University
On-Page Optimization Insights
Robinson Cancade Private Wealth Inc. Happy Skin Laser + Aesthetic Clinic Volunteer Manitoba Reesor’s Jewellery Assiniboine College Continuing Studies Compass Credit Union ClearSecure (ROCKGLASS) Treo Law LLP Forbidden Flavours Roastery & Cafe Nectar Boutique Bee EZ Tree Service Westman Promotions Assiniboine College Student’s Association Create Marketing The Backyard on Aberdeen Trident Event Group Carolyn’s Floral Design Meighan Haddad LLP Epp Law Office Siere
Pinnacle Event Rentals Assiniboine Credit Union Fusion Credit Union
03
Scotiabank CPHR Manitoba Alternative Group
Counsel Public Affairs Keystone Centre
BDO Canada LLP Keystone Centre
Leech Group
Sunrise Credit Union
143rd Annual Business Achievement Awards Gala
04
Bell Media/Bounce Radio Bell MTS, a division of Bell Canada Workers Compensation Board Brandon
05
Brockie Donovan Funeral & Cremation Services MNP LLP
RBC Royal Bank Canada Packers Koch Fertilizer Canada ULC Pattison Media Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd. BDC: Business Development Bank of Canada Better Business Bureau of Central Canada Greenstone Building Products Leech Group Guild Insurance Group Sunrise Credit Union Limited BEHLEN Industries LP Stride Credit Union Western Financial Group
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
12
Recognition & Celebration
03
Overview of SEO Strategies
BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR Dale McKay, Shur-gro Farm Services Keyword Performance Analysis On-Page Optimization Insights
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE (LARGE)
LIFETIME BUSINESS BUILDER Bob Mazer, Mazergroup 04
05
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE (SMALL)
Glenn Butt, Canadian Tire
Jaye Duffield, Karis Malyon, Cheryl DeBeer, Reesor’s Jewellery
COMMUNITY IMPACT (BUSINESS)
COMMUNITY IMPACT (INDIVIDUAL)
Greg Gingras, Sobeys West End
Tamra Rapsky
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
13
Recognition & Celebration
03
Overview of SEO Strategies
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR
OUTSTANDING NEW BUSINESS
Cassandra Jamieson, Performance McPhail TravelKeyword & Moonlit CanopyAnalysis On-Page Optimization Insights
David & Jennifer Anning, 04 Compass Coach Lines
05
WESTMAN’S TOP 4 UNDER 40
WESTMAN’S TOP 4 UNDER 40
Kyle Neufeld, Alair Homes
Courtney Matienzo, Mazergroup
WESTMAN’S TOP 4 UNDER 40
WESTMAN’S TOP 4 UNDER 40
Chris Hunt, Assiniboine College
Lindsey Raupers, Loft Accounting & Advisory Inc.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
14
Financial Report On behalf of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff, the following represents a brief summary of the information from our year-end financial statements for the 2025-26 Fiscal Year. The Brandon Chamber of Commerce ended the year in a solid and comfortable financial position. The year ended with slightly higher revenues than in the previous year, however the final amount was less than budgeted within this fiscal. Revenues
03
Overview of SEO from Chamber Membership Fees Strategies accounted for 27% of the annual budget, while event attendance and sponsorship make up 55% of the overall annual revenues.
Keyword Performance Analysis
04
The expense side of the ledger shows a 5 % reduction in expenses from the 2024-25 fiscal year, as well as a 1% reduction of budgeted expenses for this fiscal. The reduction
05
in costs was the On-Page key factor in maintaining a strong financial position for the Brandon Optimization Insights Chamber of Commerce in the 2025-26 fiscal year. With a full staff complement at the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the highest expense category is human resources. One expense category that increased and will need to be monitored closely is the costs to hosting events. If attendance trends continue and the Brandon Chamber continues to host meaningful events that provide value for the Membership, we should be in a position to mitigate those costs. 2026-27 will be a year similar to the previous of monitoring spending and planning ahead. Perhaps the most significant asset and liability for the Chamber is the building in which we operate from. Maintenance to the building will need to continue to ensure the building is structurally sound in addition to mortgage payments. Investment in the form of renovations to Brandon Chamber of Commerce building will need to occur in the near future. Overall, the Brandon Chamber enters the 2026-27 fiscal year in a stable position in large part to the fiscal responsibility within the existing policies and operation practices.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
15
Chamber Membership June 1, 2025–May 31, 2026
108
EVENT SPONSORS
603
TOTAL MEMBERS
46
Overview of SEO Strategies
03
Keyword Performance Analysis
04
NEW MEMBERS
The Brandon Chamber continued to build a strong and engaged membership throughout 2025–2026. We Optimization Insights welcomedOn-Page 46 new members, bringing05 our total membership to 603, while 108 event sponsors helped make our programs and events possible. With a member retention rate of 97.3%, these results reflect the continued value of Chamber membership and the strength of Brandon’s business community.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
16
Chamber Events June 1, 2025–May 31, 2026
Bringing Business Together. Building Connections. Creating Impact. In 2025–2026, the Brandon Chamber delivered a dynamic calendar of events designed to connect businesses, spark conversations, support growth and strengthen our business community.
22
4,516
EVENTS
IN ATTENDANCE
3
9
10
SIGNATURE EVENTS
BUSINESS AFTER 5
MONTHLY LUNCHEONS
IN ATTENDANCE
IN ATTENDANCE
IN ATTENDANCE
1,089 15%
WOMEN OF WESTMAN CONFERENCE
475
2,952 7%
366%
2
4
33%
408
APPS
NEW BREAKOUT SESSIONS
GROWTH
ATTENDEES
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
17
Chamber Marketing June 1, 2025–May 31, 2026 Our social media presence continued to grow across Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
877,577
7,712
TOTAL FOLLOWERS
POST IMPRESSIONS
12%
108%
15,460
54,656 ENGAGEMENTS
61%
874
LINK CLICKS
POSTS PUBLISHED
68%
5%
Our social media channels experienced strong growth this year, reaching 7,712 followers and generating more than 877,000 impressions. Engagement increased by 61%, while link clicks grew by 68%, helping us connect more people with Chamber news, programs, events and member stories.
Email Communications
Throughout 2025–2026, The Insider, The Glance and other Chamber emails reached an audience of more than 1,850 contacts. With an average open rate of approximately 38% and a 99.4% delivery rate, email remained an effective way to keep members informed and connected, while providing opportunities to build even greater engagement in the year ahead.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Strategic Plan Progress 2025-2026 Key Accomplishments
18% 30+ 30%
✓
Event Participation Increase
Achieved: 4,516 participants (up from 3,822)
Advocacy Activities Completed
Achieved: Exceeded target of 6+ annually
Member Survey Participation
Building toward 50% participation by 2027
Retail Theft Policy Advocacy
Successfully influenced provincial policy action on retail theft
Looking Ahead • Membership retention: maintain 95%+ per year • Membership growth: 10% annual growth over three years • Event participation: reach 25% increase by 2028 • 100% membership outreach annually by 2028
18
BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Setting the Pace for a Greater Brandon Since 1883 1043 Rosser Avenue, Brandon Manitoba
brandonchamber.ca info@brandonchamber.ca 204-571-5340