THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Glance
A Message from Your New President
AFAMILIARFEELING
AsweheadintoJune2025,Ican’thelpfeelinga little bit like I am back in high school… Wishful thinking given the extra grey hair and slight wrinkles that frame my face! But in moving into the role of president of the Brandon Chamber, I feel the same sense of excitement and trepidation that came as I was about to graduate from grade 12. As I look towards the year ahead, I find myself wondering, “Can I do this? Do I have enough time?” and sometimes even, “What was I thinking?!?” – just like that youngstudent25yearsago.
Thistimehowever,toanswerthosequestionsof self-doubt, I always go back to Brandon’s business community. It is not uncommon for a business owner to ask themselves any or even allthesequestionsmultipletimesaday.
CHALLENGESANDRESILIENCE
If I had to choose one word to sum up 2025 so far, it would be “unpredictable”. We have been dealton-again/off-againtariffsincitingatrade war with our nearest neighbour and trade partner. It is getting harder and harder to not only hire, but keep, skilled labour in the workforce. And the cost of doing business just keepsgoingup.
ButthatiswhereIcontinuetoseeourmembers resiliently pull out their superhero capes and come up with innovative solutions to the problems at hand. When the Chamber asked forinsightandinputontariffs,youshowedupto providefeedbackatourroundtablediscussions and surveys. Our Agriculture Round Table discussions led by the Business Development Committee have identified many issues in whichtheChamberwilladvocateforresolutions andcontinuetopushtheenvelopeforanswers
REFRAMINGOURIDENTITY
Looking to the year ahead, I look back again on my time as a student I am a Brandon girl, born andraised,andonlylefttoattendtheUniversity of Manitoba I was completely surprised to be asked “what is there to do in Brandon?” and “isn’titjustthatstripalongthehighway?”
I couldn’t believe that so many of my classmates had never actually ventured off the Trans-Canada Highway to see what Brandon had to offer Four years of explaining how great my hometown was got me wondering why we wereflyingundertheradar.Brandonhasalways been Manitoba’s second largest city and the hub for Westman. We have two educational institutions (BU and AC), a hospital with cancer carecentre,andavibrantculturalscenedueto the presence of two world class facilities (Keystone Centre and WMCA). Our retail sector is growing as new businesses choose Brandon to set up shop and we work to make our downtown better. And our industrial sector just got a major boost with the announcement of muchneededservicedindustriallotsinoureast end.
TIMETOFLIPTHESCRIPT
Wehaveallsaidit,andyes,Winnipegisjusttwo hours away. But why not flip the script? That same road to Winnipeg goes in both directions, sowhynotBrandon?Wehavetheperfect
A Message from Your New President
opportunity to make Brandon and its business communityexactlywhatwealwaysknewitwas and could be. With the doors to interprovincial tradeopening,nowisthetimetoexpandwhere we can do business easily. By leveraging and working with the provincial and federal governments, now is the time to build relationships with new trade partners nationally andinternationally.
Now is the time to advocate to allow our red seal trades and professionals to move more freely from province to province to fill those skilled labour shortages. On that note, let’s expandoureducationalopportunitiesatourtwo post-secondary schools to bring and keep our young people in Brandon and the Westman area. And now, as we continue to work towards bringing an eastbound flight to Toronto, the sky is(literally)thelimit!
HONOUREDTOSERVE
I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be stepping into the role of President of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. If you were at the State of the Province luncheon, you would have heard Premier Kinew comment on the “Chains of Office” that are used during the swearinginceremonyforDoctorsManitoba.The Chamber Gavel, while not physically as heavy aschains,iscertainlyweightyinitsownright,as
it comes with the knowledge that the president is representing a grassroots business organizationthatis142yearsinthemaking.
In preparing for this role, I have been lucky to have seen first-hand what it takes to lead this organization. From the time that Lois Rushton stepped up, six months early, to lead the Chamber, she has done so with grace, humility, and most of all, strength to get through some very unexpected and unpredictable times. I havesomeverylargeshoestofillandwilldomy utmosttocontinueherlegacy.
LOOKINGAHEAD
Icannotwaittohitthegroundrunningandstart this (what I have been told will be a) whirlwind of a year. I know I won’t be able to do it alone and am extremely grateful for the executive committee and board who will be there every step of the way. And, once we have a new general manager in place, there will be no stoppingus!
Thank you for allowing me this wonderful opportunity.
A Last Message from Lois Ruston
“EXPECTTHEUNEXPECTED”
These were the closing words of Past President, Lori Dangerfield, at the State of the Chamber luncheon panel that we hosted last June. I have thought of her comment many, many times over the past year as, it seems thattruerwordswereneverspoken!
From stepping into the role of President unexpectedly 6 months early, this has been a term of change, flexibility and adaptation. ApproximatelyoneweekafterthatStateofthe Chamber luncheon, the current GM let me know he was moving on to new opportunities, and following that we then navigated through a 100% staffing turnover (was it something I said?!?). A Brandon delegation attended the CanadianChamberofCommerceconference inHalifaxinOctober,andwereturnedhometo experience about 2 months of “normal” in November and December, hosting luncheons, touring businesses, meeting with members and Ministers, and preparing for school division, municipal and provincial budget engagements.Asthecalendarflippedto2025 wesoonlearnedthatlifewasgoingtochange significantly, and the business landscape and tradingrelationshipswereabouttogetrocky
As our neighbours to the south became not too neighbourly overnight, we worked to lean into our provincial and national Chamber connections to be part of the advocacy work early, met with members and hosted a roundtable to try to determine potential impacts and possible responses We also advocated for a seat on the Premier’s Trade and Tariffs Council and were pleased to have JenniferLudwigappointedinFebruary
In March, a pleasant surprise presented itself in theformofawillingairlinepartnerwhowantsto explore the introduction of a direct BrandonToronto flight. This represents an excellent opportunity for Brandon and the entire southwest region and I will continue to work on this important development as I move into the Past President role. Over the past month, we once again find ourselves navigating through a 75% staffing turnover so the Board is working to backstopthestaffteamandfindtherighttalent toleadtheChamberintothefuture
So, the past 18 months have been a lot of getting comfortable with the unexpected; bobbing and weaving through the most recent challenge, while taking time to connect with members,learnmoreabouttheissuesthatface our community and celebrate the creative, resilient and successful businesses that call Brandonhome Lookingbackoverthepastyear and a half, I can honestly say that I gave this position my very best Were there things that I wanted to accomplish that I didn’t? Absolutely Meetings and connections that I should have made but couldn’t fit into to the calendar? You bet Issues that didn’t get the attention they deserved? Definitely But what I did do was listen and proactively reach out to our membership to discuss issues that were importanttothem
A Last Message from Lois Ruston
worked to ensure that the voice of Brandon’s businesscommunitywaspresentedclearlyand concisely around the tables that could effect change, particularly at the provincial and federalgovernmentlevels.Throughoutallofthis Ihadtheunwaveringandstrongsupportofthe Executive, Vice President Jennifer Ludwig, and Secretary-Treasurer Emelio Brown as well as a dedicated Board of Directors who served on committees, represented the organization at various opportunities and more recently have stepped up to assist with some operational detailsaswell.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with some amazing staff people who have generously given their time and talents to move the Chamber and our community forward. I’ve also been on the receiving end of meaningful support and “sage guidance” from a group of Past Presidents who truly care about the institution of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and firmly believe in the role it has toplayinmovingourcommunityforward.
The organization will be in great hands as the gavelpassestoJenniferLudwig.Iknowthatshe will lead the Chamber with intention, through a steady and consistent approach (as long as shehasherDietCokeinhand!).
Thank you to the Chamber Board and membership for putting your trust in me to fill this important role. Thanks for the words of encouragement, kind compliments and all the “oneclaps”!
IwishyoualltheverybestandIwillforeverbea cheerleaderforthegrowthanddevelopmentof Brandon’s economy, business community, and thisamazingplacethatweallcallhome,
FROMTHECHAMBER
ThankyoutoLosiRushtonforyourincredible dedicationandleadershipduringyourtimeas ChamberPresident Yourvision,hardwork,and unwaveringsupportforthebusinesscommunity havemadealastingdifference
TheChamberwilldeeplymissyoursteady presenceandtheimpactyou'vehadonour organization.
CHAMBERPRESIDENT
Lois Ruston
2025-2026ChamberExecutive
Weareexcitedtoannounceour2025-26Board Executives!
PresidentJenniferLudwig,ownerandpharmacist atSuperThriftyPharmacy
VicePresidentEmelioBrown,CEOofIntriTech DigitalMarketing
Secretary-TreasurerChrisFinley,VicePresident, Parts&ServiceatMazergroup
PastPresidentLoisRuston,ExecutiveDirectorof YWCAWestman
LEADERSHIPBRANDONAPPLICATIONSOPEN
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce and Westman ImmigrantServicesareexcitedtoannouncethatapplications forour2025-26BrandonLeadershipProgramarenowopen!
This dynamic program is designed to foster growth, connection, and an in-depth understanding of our city. Apply now on our website to join this immersive experience and developyourleadershippotential.
ThankYou2024-2025Board
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our 202425 Board for their incredible dedication and hard work Their commitment has been instrumental in driving the success of our chamber and fostering growth within our community
We are sad to say goodbye to Past President Lois Ruston, Executive Director of YWCA Westman With over two decades of leadership inBrandon’snon-profitandprivatesectors,Lois has brought deep experience, thoughtful insight, and unwavering passion to our board Herlegacyofserviceandadvocacywillbelong remembered
We also bid farewell to Board Director Tilda Fortier, Business Manager at Greenstone Building Products Tilda’s strategic mindset and commitment to innovation have been key contributions to our chamber’s progress Her thoughtful leadership and dedication to communitybuildingwillbegreatlymissed
Lastly,wethankBoardDirectorMeredythLeech, Director of Sales & Marketing at Leech Group A fourth-generation member of her family’s business, Meredyth brought creativity, passion, and advocacy for local business to the board table.Herpresenceandpositivitywillbedeeply missed.
Thank you to each of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and invaluable contributions. Your hard work and commitment have significantly strengthened our chamber and positively impacted our entire community. Thelegacyofyoureffortswillcontinuetoinspire andguideusforyearstocome.
JUNE6,2025|10:00AM-11:00AM|1043ROSSERAVE FREEEVENT.NOREGISTRATIONREQUIRED JUNE11,2025|WHEATCITYGOLFCOURSE SOLDOUT
STATE OF THE PROVINCE
EVENTRECAP
On May 15th, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce proudly welcomed Premier Wab Kinew to our annual State of the Province Luncheon HeldattheKeystoneCentre,thisyear’s event drew over 400 attendees, including dignitaries, business leaders, and community membersfromacrossWestman Withasold-out crowd and a high-energy atmosphere, the luncheonservedasameaningfulopportunityfor local stakeholders to hear directly from the Premier on the government’s current priorities andfuturedirection
PremierKinew’sAddress
Premier Kinew made headlines with a major announcement: $120 million in new funding for Assiniboine Community College’s Prairie InnovationCentreforSustainableAgriculture.The investment includes $40 million for the Centre itself, $20 million for a new 216-seat child-care facility within the Centre, and $60 million in bridge financing to allow construction to begin before year-end. Once complete, the Centre is expected to host 800 students nearly tripling current enrolment in agriculture-related programs. The Premier emphasized that this funding is not only an investment in education but in the long-term strength of Manitoba’s agriculturesector.
He also reiterated a call for the federal government to contribute their share in moving the project forward Additional announcements included updates on new schools planned for Brandon, progress on trade through the Port of Churchill, and the goal of achieving Canada-wide internal free tradebyJuly1
FromtheChamber
The State of the Province Luncheon continues to be one of the Chamber’s most anticipated events of the year, providing our members with timely insights and direct access to provincial leadership. We were proud to host this important conversation and to spotlight a major economic investment that will benefit Brandon and the broader Westman region for yearstocome.
Thank you to our generous event sponsors for making this luncheon possible, and to the KeystoneCentreforhostingus.Aspecialthank you to Trident Event Group for providing all media and AV support, ensuring a seamless event experience. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended and helped make thisyear’sluncheonagreatsuccess.
LEADERSHIP BRANDON
MAYRECAP
TheMaysessionofLeadershipBrandonofferedparticipantsadeepdiveintotheheartofourcity downtown Brandon. The day began at the Women’s Idea Space (WIS) Entrepreneur Hub, where participants learned about local innovation and support for women-led businesses. This was followed by a thoughtful discussion led by Emmanuel from the Brandon Downtown Business Corporation, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities present in revitalizing our downtowncore.
The group then heard from MLA Wayne Balcaen, who offered insights on public leadership and community service, before heading to Chez Angela for a candid and inspiring session with local business owner James Chambers. His perspective on entrepreneurship and the value of community-rootedbusinesssparkedmeaningfulreflection.
ThedaywrappedwithaguidedwalkingtourledbyEmmySandersonoftheBrandonDowntownBiz, giving participants a closer look at key developments, historical sites, and the future potential of Brandon’sdowntown
Leadership Brandon is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders by connecting them withthepeople,places,andideasthatshapeourcommunity DowntownBrandonisahubofboth heritageandpossibility,andthissessionunderscoredtheimportanceofinvestinginitsfuture
APPLICATIONSFORTHE2025–2026
Leadership Brandon program are now officially open We encourage emerging leaders to apply andtakethenextstepintheirpersonalandprofessionalgrowthjourney
MayAdvocacyUpdate
PROGRESS ON INTERPROVINCIAL TRADE ANDLOCALADVOCACY
The Chamber is pleased to see progress on reducing internal trade barriers with the signing of a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Manitoba and Ontario This agreement is designed to support the freer movement of goods, services, and skilled labour between the provinces something local businesses have long advocated for As many Westman employers continue to face labour shortages, we’re hopeful this agreement will help create astronger,moremobileworkforce
ImpactsforWestmanBusinesses
For small- and medium-sized businesses in ourregion,thisagreementoffersthepotential to expand beyond provincial borders and access new markets The ability to recruit skilled workers more easily from Ontario is a welcome step toward solving one of the most persistent challenges our members face While more details are still to come, we’ll continue tracking the implementation of this agreementandwillsharekeyinformationasit becomesavailable
Introductory Meeting with MP Grant Jackson
Thismonth,ChamberExecutivemembersalso had the opportunity to meet with Brandon–Souris MP Grant Jackson As a new representative, this meeting served as an introduction to the Chamber’s advocacy priorities and the key issues facing our member, from labour shortages to rural economic development We look forward to continued engagement with MP Jackson and hisofficeinthemonthsahead
AdvocatingforaStrongerBusiness Community
The Chamber remains committed to amplifying the voice of our business community at all levels of government. Through strategic partnerships and ongoing dialogue,weaimtocreatemeaningfulchange that supports a resilient and competitive local economy.
If you have advocacy concerns or ideas to share, please connect with our team, your inputshapestheworkwedoonyourbehalf.
ThankYou!
Thank you to all our valued members for your unwavering support throughout the 2024-2025 chamber year. Together, we ' ve achieved remarkable milestones and made significant strides in enhancing the Brandon business community. Your dedication, collaboration, and enthusiasm have been instrumental in driving positive change and fosteringgrowth.Here'stoanothersuccessfulyearahead! Let’shaveanothergreatyeartogether!
2023-2024Board
Asweembarkonanewchamberyear,weinviteourmemberstorenew their membership with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Your continued support ensures the strength and vitality of our business community.
BoardofDirectors
JENNIFERLUDWIG|PRESIDENT SUPERTHRIFTYDRUGSCANADALTD
EMELIOBROWN |VICEPRESIDENT INTRITECHMARKETING
CHRISFINLEY|SECRETARY TREASURER MAZERGROUP
LOISRUSTON|PASTPRESIDENT YWCAWESTMAN
LISAANDREW BDOCANADALLP
MATTBERG
LIVINGSTONEOUTDOOR& LIVINGSTONELANDSCAPINGLTD
BRENTMILLER VICTORIAINN
KARINGRIFFIN ALTERNATIVEGROUP
ROBSTARKELL WEST-CANHRSOLUTIONS
AMBERWHITE ANYTIMEFITNESS
CHARLESTWEED TWEEDIASOCIALMEDIA AGENCY
ENVERNAIDOO WESTMANIMMIGRANT SERVICES
LYNDSAYSEAFOOT CURBIRDGE
EMMYSANDERSON BRANDONDOWNTOWNBIZ
ChamberStaff
FREDERICRAMSAY OFFICECOORDINATOR
Acknowledgments
DESIGN,EDITING,WRITING&COMPILATION DESTINYMALUGA
MOSTPHOTOGRAPHY,INCLUDINGEVENTPHOTOGRAPHY TRIDENTEVENTGROUP
WeacknowledgethatBrandonislocatedonTreaty2territory, traditionallandsoftheCree,Oji-Cree,Dakota, Anishinaabe/Ojibwepeoples,andthehomelandoftheRed RiverMétisNation Wehonorthehistories,cultures,and contributionsofIndigenouspeoplestoourcommunity
SETTING THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883
TheBrandonChamberofCommerceisanindependent, membershipfunded,non-profitorganizationthatrepresents Brandonbusinessfromthegrassrootslevel
OurmissionistoencouragegrowthintheBrandoncommunityby fosteringaprogressivebusinessenvironment,favourableto enhancingexistingandattractingnewbusiness.