2023 December Chamber at a Glance

DECEMBER 2023

Chamber at a

Glance What's Inside A Message From Your General Manager

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Efficiency Manitoba’s Small Business Program

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Exciting Announcements for Westman’s Region

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Local Chamber Advocacy Update

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Provincial Chamber Advocacy Update

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Federal Chamber Advocacy Update

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And More!

A Message From Your General Manager Dear Members, As we find ourselves approaching the end of another impactful calendar year, I am honored to share with you some significant updates, reminders, and heartfelt sentiments.

First and foremost, I am thrilled to inform you of the progressive strides we are making with our GROW Brandon initiative. In our pursuit of enhancing economic growth and fostering opportunities within our community, we have selected a consultant. This expert will serve as a guiding force as we dive into crucial conversations throughout December.

These discussions will lay the groundwork for our strategic planning, aligning our vision with the collective aspirations of our membership. Together, we aim to shape a prosperous future for Brandon, strengthening its economic landscape and cultivating an environment prepared for success.

In the spirit of celebration and recognition, it is award and nomination season here at the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Our highly anticipated Business Awards Gala is on the horizon, an event that serves as a testament to the remarkable achievements and resilience of our local business community. This is our chance to honor and celebrate the efforts of our peers who have consistently pushed boundaries, innovated, and contributed significantly to the economic vitality of our region. I encourage each of you to nominate deserving individuals and businesses for these prestigious awards. Your participation is crucial in acknowledging the excellence and dedication prevalent within our community.

Awards and recognitions not only honor the hard work of individuals but also inspire others to aim for greater heights.

I would like to reiterate the impact of shopping local this holiday season. Your commitment to supporting local businesses is the cornerstone of our community's economic vitality. Every purchase made at a local establishment has a singificant impact, fostering growth, sustaining jobs, and

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nurturing the unique essence of our city. As the holiday season approaches, I urge you to consider choosing local businesses for your festive shopping. Your support serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity, amplifying the spirit of togetherness and resilience within our community.

In closing, I extend my gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication and support throughout the year. Your involvement and commitment have been the driving force behind our collective achievements. As we embrace the joyous holiday season, may it be filled with warmth, happiness, and moments of shared laughter with loved ones.

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year ahead!

Warm regards, Connor Ketchen General Manager Brandon Chamber of Commerce

2024 Business Achievement Awards close december 15!

Nominate a deserving business for one of our following award categories: Business Person of the Year Business Excellence (small or large) Community Impact (individual or business) Outstanding New Business Young Entrepreneur Top 4 Under 40

Nominating is easy! You can nominate 1 of 3 ways: Scan the QR code:

Fill out a paper copy

Pick up at 1043 Rosser Ave

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Visit our website!

brandonchamber.ca Programs Business Achievement Awards

Chamber Events

BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON THURSDAY | DEC. 7 | 11:30AM - 1:30PM UCT HALL, KEYSTONE CENTRE PRESENTING SPONSORS:

Thank you

for sponsoring our November State of the Economy Luncheon!

Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Contact our office today!

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204-571-5340 brandonchamber.ca

Efficiency Manitoba’s Small Business Program If you’re a small business owner, you know that time and money are precious resources. Between managing day-to-day tasks, taking care of your customers, and keeping a close eye on your profits and expenses, energy efficiency might be the last thing on your mind.

We’re here to help you with that.

Our Small Business Program is a full-service solution that helps your business become more energy efficient. Not only will we install free basic energy-saving products, but we’ll also do a free lighting and pitched roof attic insulation assessment of your business to see if you could benefit from a Premium Upgrade.

We offer two levels of energy efficiency upgrades so you can pick the one that's right for you:

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Beyond the energy savings Energy savings aren’t the only benefit you’ll see from participating in the Small Business Program.

Improved lighting and insulation lead to a more comfortable and productive workspace and enhances the experience for your valued customers. You’ll also save time and money since your new lighting system will require less maintenance.

Taking part is easy We know that your to-do list is long, so we’ll handle almost everything for you. All you have to do is get in touch; we’ll guide you through the process and take care of the rest. That means more time in your schedule and more money in your bank account.

Ready to get started?

Check out our program web page to start saving energy, money, and the environment!

If you own a First Nation or Métis small business, check out our Indigenous Small Business Program. We offer the same energy efficiency upgrades in two phases — all at no cost to your business.

VISIT EFFICIENCYMB.CA/SMALLBUSINESS TO LEARN MORE!

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce will be closed December 22nd-January 1st We will be open again on January 2nd, regular hours.

MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE DEAL!

Buy 2 Advertisements, Get 1 Free

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*Ads can only be used in Chamber at a Glance or Chamber Insider. All 3 ads must be used by May 31, 2024

Exciting Announcements for Westman Region Hydro announcement by gov and what that means for Brandon On November 9th, Premier Wab Kinew and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland announced a joint investment of nearly $500 million to bring reliable and affordable electricity to Manitoba.

One portion of the investment will be put towards building new hydroelectric turbines at the Pointe du Bois Generating Station to replace older ones that have reached the end of their lifeline.

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is excited to see the rest of the investment going towards building a new transmission network in the Portage la Prairie region. This new network will decrease the province’s reliance on Brandon’s Generating Station. Not only does this reduce Brandon’s greenhouse gas emissions by 37%, but it also will allow our region to increase our own capacity and meet growing demands within Westman.

Reference: Canada, D. of F. (2023, November 9). Governments of Canada and Manitoba Invest nearly $500 million to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable el...

Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2023/11/governments-of-canada-and-manitoba-invest-nearly-500-million-to-deliverclean-reliable-and-affordable-electricity-to-manitobans.html

Provincial Government Opens Westman Regional Cabinet Office On November 10th the Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosted the Provincial government’s announcement on the establishment of a new Westman Regional Cabinet Office.

This office, led by long-time local advocate Jason Gobeil, will be a liaison for families, community organizations, and local businesses.

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is excited to see local representation within this office, and looks forward to seeing how this new office will provide Westman with further support from our Provincial government. Having a direct link to the Premier’s office allows Westman to bring innovation and growth directly to the Province’s table.

We would like to congratulate Jason Gobeil on his new role, and we look forward to working with this new regional office to advocate and support local businesses.

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Reference: Province of Manitoba. (2023, November 10). News releases: Manitoba Government establishes Westman Regional Cabinet Office. Province of Manitoba. https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html? item=60657&posted=2023-11-10

Needs Your Help!

Operation Red Nose is in need of the following volunteers Drivers (Stays in team vehicle) Designated Drivers (Drives client’s vehicle) Navigators (Accompanies designated driver)

Questions? Call 204-728-6673

Gather a few friends, come out and have some fun! At the same time you will help keep roads safe and make sure everyone arrives home safe and sound during the holiday season.

Food, coffee, drinks are supplied by local sponsors: December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 31 Marinos Pizza Hut Dominos Tim Hortons Volunteer applications can be picked up at Pepsi the following locations: Old Dutch Murray Chevrolet - 1500 Richmond Ave CAA - 305 18th St North Western Nations Gas Bar - 1725 18th St North Dates of Operation:

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In 2020, the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) found that men working in construction have one of the highest suicide rates compared to other industries. And in 2021, the CDC reported that male construction workers have a 65% higher suicide rate than all workers.

The Phinney Legacy Fund is a not-for-profit organization providing benevolence and assistance to construction workers and construction companies that cannot access benefits to offset medication, and/or counselling costs. This includes support with counselling services, pet care during in-house treatment, and medication costs.

Visit phinneyslegacy.org for resources and support.

Volunteer Needed Brandon Salutes is looking for a Committee Chair, starting early 2024.

Brandon Salutes fosters unity of the military and civilian communities in the Brandon area based upon mutual respect of their unique contributions toward a strong and proud partnership.

Interested? Contact gm@brandonchamber.ca!

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710 Rosser Avenue, Brandon, MB R7A 7E4 Phone: 204-727-8933 (office) 204-727-2559 (floor) Email: xmaschr@gmail.com Website: www.brandonwestmanchristmascheer.ca

NEEDS YOUR HELP!

60 MORE FAMILY ADOPTERS ARE NEEDED TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL OF THEIR APPLICANTS! If your business or organization is able to adopt a medium family (4-5 people) or large family (6+) , please contact them at the information above, or visit brandonwestmanchristmascheer.ca/adopt-a-family Hamper content lists are provided!

DRIVE WITH US We are still in need of drivers to deliver hampers on the following dates: December 13th afternoon & evening, and December 14th in the morning

If you can help, please sign up on our website at: brandonwestmanchristmascheer.ca/volunteer

Office Hours: November 1-24, 1- 4 p.m.

November 27- December 15, 9 - 12pm, 1-5 pm Monday to Friday only

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Click here to apply!

Local Advocacy Update

BRANDON CHAMBER DISCUSSES TRADE OPPORTUNITIES, GETS FIRST LOOK AT PROVINCIAL PRIORITIES

On November 14th, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosted a roundtable discussion with UK Trade Minister Andrew Smith. Local businesses, Economic Development Brandon, and the Chamber Executive all gathered with Minister Smith to discuss potential trade opportunities in our region. This conversation created new inspiration and opportunities for growth, while better understanding our obstacles to overcome. We are excited to see what the future brings for our region’s businesses, stay tuned as we continue to collaborate and advocate for a stronger, growing community!

On November 21st, our General Manager, Connor Ketchen, and Vice-President, Lois Ruston, went to hear the Speech from the Throne in Manitoba. This speech gave them the opportunity to hear first-hand what the new government’s priorities are, which is critical as we wrap up 2023 and head into a new year with a new government.

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Provincial Advocacy Update

MANITOBA CHAMBER ADVOCATES FOR LOCAL BUSINESS IN FEDERAL PRE-BUDGET DISCUSSIONS

The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) President and CEO, Chuck Davidson, recently represented the interests of businesses in the province in pre-budget consultations for the upcoming federal budget. The event provided a platform to voice key concerns and provide recommendations to members of parliament, including Manitoban MPs Marty Morantz and Daniel Blaikie. The key points made to the standing committee were: CEBA Loan Repayment Extension MCC expressed that the CEBA loan repayment extension is inadequate, with its impact particularly felt by small businesses in Manitoba.

Discussions highlighted that businesses struggling to repay the loan would face further challenges if forced to refinance, potentially leading to closures. If this were to happen, there would be a non-repayment of funds rather than simply a delay in repayment which would be a greater detriment to the finances of the country.

Comprehensive Tax System Review MCC advocated for a comprehensive review of the federal tax system, citing positive outcomes from the recent review of the structure in Manitoba. This initiative aims to create a more equitable and simplified tax environment for businesses, encouraging growth and sustainability.

Reducing Interprovincial Trade Barriers MCC insisted that a priority should be placed on reducing interprovincial trade barriers and to create open market access for businesses across Canada. Establishing a public registry of interprovincial trade barriers was proposed to enhance awareness and facilitate prompt action in eliminating these barriers, which is a cost-effective solution to improving Canada’s economic climate.

Improving Immigration Systems Recognizing the effectiveness of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program in addressing workforce gaps, MCC called on the government to continue improving immigration systems. Streamlining foreign credential recognition processes and expediting Canadian equivalency procedures were highlighted as crucial steps to support filling workforce gaps.

Fair Carbon Taxation MCC reiterated the need for a fair carbon tax system applicable to all provinces. Noting that climate action incentive payments are not sent to businesses, a call was made for programs and funding to help businesses reduce the environmental impact of their operations and lower their operating costs. This would ensure that businesses receive support in their efforts to contribute to environmental sustainability.

Looking Forward: The upcoming federal fall economic statement is anticipated to provide further insights into the direction for the next federal budget.

The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce remains committed to advocating for policies that support the growth and resilience of businesses in the province.

As the voice of Manitoba’s business community, MCC continues to engage with policymakers to foster economic growth and prosperity for all. Look for analysis on the fall economic statement and the subsequent implications for businesses in Manitoba in the week to come.

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Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Advocates for Manitoba businesses in ... Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. (2023, November 17). https://mbchamber.mb.ca/2023/11/17/manitoba-chambers-of-commerce-advocates-for-manitoba-businesses-in-federal-pre-budget-consultations/

Click here to read the Canadian Chamber’s Insight on the 2023 Fall Economic Statement

Click here to read the 2023 Fall Economic Statement

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Meet the 2023-2024 Leadership Brandon Update At the end of October, the Leadership Brandon team gathered at City Hall for some insightful discussions. Here, they met with influential leaders such as the Mayor, City Manager, and other members of the City of Brandon’s leadership team. The opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion allowed our leaders in the program to better understand the needs of our community. This also reaffirmed dedication to shaping a stronger Brandon.

The team will meet again at the beginning of December before taking a break for the holidays! We look forward to providing an update as they head into the new year, with new goals and skills to bring to the table.

Thank you to our Leadership Brandon sponsors:

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jaime Pugh | President MNP LLP Lois Ruston | Vice President YWCA Westman Jennifer Ludwig | Secretary-Treasurer Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd. Tanya LaBuick | Past-President CW2 Construction & Design Guardian Fencing LaBuick & Co. Courtney Baxter Bushel Plus Matt Berg Livingstone Outdoor Emelio Brown IntriTech Digital Marketing

THE BRANDON CHAMBER of COMMERCE Setting the pace for a greater Brandon since 1883.

Did you know?

The Brandon Chamber Government Relations Committee makes recommendations on budgets for the Brandon School Division, City of Brandon, and the provincial budget, keeping our local business needs at the front.

Andrea Epp Epp Law Office Samantha Falloon Myphone - TELUS & KOODO Authorized Dealer Chris Finley Mazergroup Tilda Fortier Greenstone Building Products Meredyth Leech Leech Group Brent Miller Victoria Inn Rob Starkell West-Can HR Solutions

HAPPY

holidays!

from the entire team at the Brandon Chamber of Commerce!

CHAMBER STAFF Connor Ketchen General Manager Jessica Saler Member Relations & Marketing Coordinator Erin Houck Office & Project Manager

Who We Are: The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an independent, membership funded, non-profit organization that represents Brandon business from the grassroots level.

Destiny Maluga Office & Marketing Assistant

Our Mission: To encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business environment, favourable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.