THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2024-2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement
T n
independent,membership-funded,non-profit organizationthatrepresentsBrandon,Manitoba businessfromthegrassrootslevelsince1883.
Ourmission,
ToencouragegrowthintheBrandoncommunityby fosteringaprogressivebusinessenvironment, favourabletoenhancingexistingandattractingnew business.
OurVision,
TostrengthencollaborationbetweentheChamber andalllevelsofgovernmentbyadvocatingforpolicies thatsupporteconomicgrowth,innovation,anda thrivinglocalbusinesscommunity.
2024 - 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Emelio Brown
Secretary Treasurer Intritech
Mazergroup
Greenstone Building Products
Tilda Fortier
weed al Media Agency
Livingstone Outdoor & Livingstone Landscaping Ltd
Westman Immigrant Services
Karin Griffin Alternative Group
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dear Members,
The 2024-25 Chamber year was marked by both progress and challenges, positioning us well for the year ahead. Our events created invaluable opportunities for members to connect, share innovative initiatives, and celebrate our community's best and brightest. Thank you to all who participated and sponsored these events, which are critical to our success.
Our role in government advocacy has been more crucial than ever. The Chamber Executive met with numerous Ministers and MLA’s, opposition members, and many elected officials. The Government Relations Committee provided insights on municipal and provincial issues, shaping the Chamber's stance on key business matters.
The Workforce Alignment and Business Development Committees also completed important work over the past year. The Workforce Committee engaged with educational partners to ensure our youth are prepared for the workforce. The Business Development Committee hosted a roundtable on agriculture, bringing important issues to the forefront and promoting ideas that will inform future work by this committee.
The introduction of US tariffs in early 2025 created chaos and uncertainty. The Chamber has been actively engaged with members most impacted by this issue, providing a voice and support.
GROW Brandon is finding its footing, aligning our community's economic development plan with provincial and federal support. We anticipate exciting progress in the coming months on this initiative.
We have also been working diligently to secure a direct flight from Brandon to Toronto. With a motivated airline and a supportive region, work continues towards having planes flying east by early 2026.
None of these achievements would be possible without the strong team, supported by an historic and grassroots organization. The depth and breadth of the Chamber, along with the remarkable people who make up its past, present, and future, have ensured our stability and growth.
Thank you for the continued support of our membership. Together, we will continue to build a bright and prosperous future for Brandon’s business community
Sincerely,
Lois Ruston 2024-25 Chamber President
THE CHAMBER NETWORK
Our advocacy efforts this year also included participation in key initiatives such as the provincial flight to Toronto project, aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities for Brandon and the surrounding area.
Working alongside government representatives, community partners, and other chambers, we collectively advanced discussions focused on expanding accessibility and supporting business development.
Through continued collaboration and engagement, the Chamber remains dedicated to advancing projects that position Brandon for sustainable, long-term growth.
Throughout the past year, the Brandon Chamber strengthened its collaboration with both the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
These partnerships have provided valuable opportunities to engage in national and provincial discussions, ensuring that the priorities of Brandon’s business community are represented at every level.
By participating in these broader networks, the Chamber continues to contribute to shaping policies that foster business growth, investment, and innovation across our region.
ADVOCACY RECAP
GovernmentRelations
This Government Relations committee this year focused on strengthening communication between the Chamber and all levels of government This year’s discussions centered on key advocacy priorities, including equitable education funding formulas, labour force development, and innovation in agriculture The committee also reviewed GROW Brandon’s progress and explored strategies for future engagement with provincial and federal representatives. Additional conversations included the Eastern Flight to Toronto, tariff impacts on agriculture, and long-term advocacy priorities for the business community.
BusinessDevelopment
This year the Business Development committee worked to strengthen connections within Brandon’s business community and address key economic priorities Members coordinated business visits to enhance outreach, hosted a roundtable to discuss issues with the business park, collaborated with Manitoba Hydro to address local energy limitations, and met with the Community Policing Unit to discuss safety concerns affecting businesses.
WorkforceAlignment
Members of the Workforce Alignment committee planned and participated in the Brandon Career Symposium, organizing initiatives like the Entrepreneurial Corner and Resume Tips booth to connect students with employers They also developed and launched a Workforce Survey to gather insights on local labour needs, training supports, and workplace diversity.
ENGAGEMENT LuncheonSeries
This past year was marked by meaningful connections, bold conversations, and a strong sense of regional collaboration Our luncheon series brought together diverse voices, from industry experts to community champions, who helped spark important dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing our business community Premier Wab Kinew once again brought insight and perspective, reinforcing the vital role Brandon plays in driving the provincial economy. We also focused on strengthening our ties beyond city borders, building lasting relationships with Shilo. A highlight of the year was creating space for student networking, offering young professionals valuable opportunities to engage, learn, and grow. From fresh ideas to lasting partnerships, this year showed the real power of coming together with purpose.
AnnualGolfTournament
The Annual Chamber Golf Tournament at Wheat City Golf Course was another standout event this year With continued support from our returning host sponsor and plenty of on-course fun, it was a great day of networking, friendly competition, and community connection, solidifying its place as a favourite Chamber tradition.
BusinessAwardsGala
The Business Awards Gala was a true highlight of the year A celebration of excellence, innovation, and the remarkable spirit of our local business community This elegant evening paid tribute to the outstanding businesses and individuals whose dedication and leadership continue to drive our region forward We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who helped bring the event to life and extend our warmest congratulations to all the nominees and award winners who inspire us with their achievements
FirstFridayCoffee
First Friday Coffees remain a much-loved staple in our calendar, offering members a relaxed and welcoming space to connect. Each month brought fresh conversations, new faces, and the chance to strengthen relationships within our business community. This casual gathering continues to be a great way to ease into the month, spark collaboration, and build lasting connections in a laid-back setting
WomenofWestmanConference
The Women of Westman Conference welcomed 306 registrants and offered a full day of engaging content, connection, and community. As our fastest-growing event, it featured inspiring keynote speakers, thoughtful panel discussions, and honest conversations around the experiences and challenges women face today. We were proud to support the Women’s Resource Centre as our charity partner and are excited to continue growing the event in future years
RECOGNITION & CELEBRATION
BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR
Travis Chastko, Christie’s Office Plus
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE - LARGE
T-Birds Food Fun Games
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE - SMALL
Create Marketing
LIFETIME BUSINESS BUILDER
Ron Ball, Precision Toyota
OUTSTANDING NEW BUSINESS
Leatherwood Custom Workwear
RECOGNITION & CELEBRATION
COMMUNITY IMPACT
Tracy Baker
COMMUNITY IMPACT - BUSINESS
Chez Angela Bakery and Cafe
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR
Rob Mintenko
TOP 4 UNDER 40
Julia Teichroeb, Just Call Joe and JCJ
Residential
Whitney Sharkey, Accent CPA
Camilla Timmer, Assiniboine College
Shonah Rathwell, Pinnacle Event Rentals
Compass Credit Union
St John Ambulance - Brandon
Branch
Credit Union.
CPHR Manitoba
EVENT SPONSORS
Sentinel Safety Services
Acres of Hope Stables Ltd.
myITsource
Assiniboine College
Brandon University
Westman Communications
Group
Brandon First
CENTUM Mortgage Choice
Pattison Media
Westman Immigrant Services
Shilo Military Family Resource
Centre Inc
Alternative Group
Indigenous Chamber of Commerce
Anytime Fitness Brandon
Wilder Institute
West-Can HR
Patersons
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Mood Disorders Association of
Manitoba Prairie Mountain Region
SV Benefits
LUNCHEONS
WOMENOFWESTMAN
Manitoba Enterprise Centre of Manitoba (MWEC) – Operating as WeMB
RBC Royal Bank
Brandon Clinic Medical
Corporation
Heart and Stroke
Foundation
Town Car Rental Ltd
Robinson Cancade
Private Wealth Inc.
Reesor's Jewellery (1978) Ltd.
Chemtrade
Electrochem Inc
Leech Group
Brandon University
Super Thrifty Drugs
Canada Ltd.
Epp Law Office
Robinson Cancade
Private Wealth Inc.
Shoppers
Mall/Morguard
Epp Law Office
Super Thrifty Drugs
Canada Ltd
Treo Law
GREY PEARL Interior
BUSINESSAFTERFIVE FIRSTFRIDAYCOFFEE
Tim Hortons Westman
Design
Keystone Agricultural & Recreational Centre Inc. & The Brandon Wheat Kings
Fusion Credit Union & NorthStar
T-Birds Food Fun Games
Livingstone Outdoor
EVENT SPONSORS
142ANNUALAWARDSGALA
BDO Canada LLP
Keystone Agricultural & Recreational
Centre Inc
CPHR Manitoba
Alternative Group
Koch Fertilizer Canada Unlimited
Fusion Credit Union
Maple Leaf Foods
Bell MTS, a division of Bell Canada
Brockie Donovan Funeral and Cremation Services
Workers Compensation Board Brandon MNP LLP
Wheat City Golf Course
CPHR Manitoba
RBC Royal Bank
Greenstone Building Products
Manitoba PC Caucus
Leech Group
Town Car Rental Ltd.
Westoba Credit Union a division of Assiniboine Credit Union
Guild Insurance Group
Sunrise Credit Union Limited
Western Financial Group
Cutting Edge Construction Ltd.
Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd.
34ANNUALGOLFTOURNAMENT
Heritage Co-op
Koch Fertilizer Canada Unlimited
Denray Tire Ltd.
T-Birds Food Fun Games
Alternative Group
Dennis Hunt & Associates IG Private
Wealth Management
Leech Group
Universal Doors and Truck Accessories
St. John Ambulance - Brandon Branch
Westoba Credit Union a division of Assiniboine Credit Union
McMunn & Yates Building Supplies
Workers Compensation Board Brandon Westman Communications Group
Good Life Fitness Brandon Shoppers Mall
Tommy Gun's Original Barbershop
Western Financial Group
Corral Communications – A Bell MTS Dealer
Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers Ltd.
Guild Insurance Group
Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd
Forbidden Flavours Roastery
Chez Angela Bakery and Café Ltd.
Blue Moon Water Inc.
Sobeys Brandon West
year ' s
FINANCIAL REPORT
Brandon Chamber of Commerce finished the 2024-2025 in a solid financial position. Membership Fees contributions were 32% of the annual revenues in the past year and the events contributed to 49% of the annual budget. The remaining 19% revenue came from other revenue sources such as sponsorship, rent, and grants. Expenses exceeded budget predictions due to mid-year changes for the Brandon Chamber of Commerce with staff movement creating challenges.
Looking ahead, the budget was developed for 2025-2026 with a strategy in place to manage spending and seek additional opportunities to increase revenues, outside of an increase in membership fees. The Brandon Chamber Events have been a staple in the community for many years and have also provided consistent revenue stream.
One priority for the year is to continue the legacy of successful and meaningful events. Funding will be prioritized for advocacy with travel as part of the package. With the Brandon Chamber operating with a staff compliment, the largest expense for the year is predicted to be salaries.
Curtis Hullick – General Manager
2024-2025 MEMBERSHIP
93.7% MEMBER RETENTION RATE IN 2024-2025
29
NEW MEMBERS
The number of new member’s who joined in 2024-2025. Welcome!
591 TOTAL MEMBERS
The total number of Chamber members for 2024-2025.
2024-2025 EVENTS
3898
EVENT ATTENDANCE
The number of attendees at events last year.
31
TOTAL EVENTS IN 2024-2025
106
EVENT SPONSORS
The number of businesses and organizations that sponsored an event with us
2024-2025 MARKETING
SOCIAL MEDIA
All of our social media platforms grew this year!
3300 Facebook followers & 2227 Page Likes
959,600 impressions
10,400 Interactions
2700 Instagram followers
211,300 Impressions
4500 Interactions
1133 LinkedIn Followers
101,500 Impression
3022 Interactions
SUBCRIBERS TO OUR ENEWS
The number of subscribers we have for our weekly and monthly newsletters
AVERAGE OPEN RATE
The number of subscribers who’ve opened our publications
AVERAGE CLICK RATE the number of subscribers who’ve opened our publications and clicked on at least one link. 1698 55.2% 13.5%
