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Many of the decisions we make on a daily basis come with ease as we work withing the comfortable confines of routine and expertise, but occasionally we are confronted with a difficult decision that strain our ability to move forward. We can encounter decision paralysis in several ways; perhaps we don’t have enough information to make a decision, we could be overcome with concern about making an incorrect choice, the situation we are in can be more complex than we are used to, or maybe it is simply that the stakes are extremely high. Whatever the situation, being unable to move forward from the point of decision can impact your entire organization if the inability to set a course compromises day to day functions.
Collecting enough information to make a wise decision is always prudent; but how can you tell if you have sufficient information? Take some time to define what your decision criteria needs to be. How many of these criteria are measurable? Ensure that you can assign values to the measurable criterion and limit the amount of time worrying about less tangible elements. Double check yourself or your organization for sources of bias and determine the opportunity cost of both affirming and declining the decision ahead of you.
Once information has been collected and compared against the decision criteria you have established, you should rid yourself of the fear of making an incorrect decision. Provided you have been diligent in eliminating bias and weighing the costs, at a certain point once sufficient information and analysis has occurred a decision must be made. Have confidence in the analysis you have completed and
move forward.
If, on the other hand, the situation is vastly more complex than you can measure and weigh, then it may be time to consult external expertise. Reach out to network peers or mentors, reach out to your Chamber of Commerce connections, reach out to industry groups and subject matter experts. Allow the strength of other
experienced professionals come to your benefit.
If the stakes of the decision are still so high that even outside consultation fails to narrow things down, then try to comprehend both long and short-term outcomes. Determine the highest organization priorities for now and into the future. Does the decision support those? Engage your internal stakeholders on strategic and contingency plans for those outcomes. Find a way to measure the implementation of the decisions so that you can grow from the experience, even if the outcome is negative. There is no set procedure for making every decision you will face in running your business or organization, but don’t allow the fear of making an incorrect decision undermine the trajectory of your growth. Lean on the Chamber of Commerce network for support when charting a course through challenging situations. Be open to the possibility of bold decisions that can be gamechangers for your operations.
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Hockey is making its way back to Brantford with the relocation of the Brantford Bulldogs. The Bulldogs original home arena is undergoing significant renovations which ignited the search for a new Ontario Hockey Leagueworthy building to call their home. Construction is currently underway at the Brantford Civic Centre to ensure the necessary needs are met for the team and fans.
The renovations include a brand-new gym suitable for the players, dressing
rooms, concession stands, a scoreboard and much more.
The agreement between the Bulldogs and the City of Brantford state that the team will be staying for three years no matter what.
The renovations being held in Hamilton were set for two years but that date has been pushed back several times.
“Our ownership and management have decided that we’re going to Brantford and were going to make this the real deal,” said Reed Duthie, Manager of Broadcasting and Communications for the Bulldogs. “It’s three years with options to stay afterward and then we’ll see from there.”
The support and excitement within the community have been overwhelming as Brantford hasn’t experienced OHL hockey since 1984 with the team Brantford Alexanders.
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“Watching students understand business concepts and seeing them apply what they have learned is extremely rewarding. Even more rewarding is having students return and tell you that the lessons learned proved to be priceless. Whether you want to help students become the business leaders of tomorrow or want to be part of a great academic team: join us at Conestoga!”
-Keith Paridy, Business Development Consultant & Part-time Faculty“Being a part-time faculty in Brantford is incredibly rewarding. I am able to o er real-world business knowledge, which enhances the student learning experience. Sharing Conestoga’s motto is really important to my weekly teaching: “What you do here, counts out there.”
-Janice Vilaca, Owner of Tasty Road Trips Inc. & Part-time FacultyThe team is working with many community partnerships, a big one being the Bulldogs Foundation. They have been working on a 50/50 ticket sale through the Foundation in support of the Brant Community Healthcare Foundation.
“It is remaining in Hamilton as well as serving in Brantford,” said Duthie. “We try to make it a point to be a staple in the community.”
The players also visit schools and youth hockey teams for meet and greets, signings, and getting to know each of the kids individually. Speaking on their successes and sharing incite on how they got to where they are now.
Head coach Jay McKee is looking forward to the big move and mentions how blessed they are to have Michael Andlauer as their owner.
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“He’s done a lot to build up the arena and build us a brand-new facility for the players and staff,” said McKee.
Coach Jay has no concerns regarding the relocation and is embracing the changes that come along the way.
The home opener is set for Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. against the Oshawa Generals.
The Bulldogs have over 2,000 season ticket holders and expect a likely sell-out every night for the next three years. Although the numbers aren’t final fans can expect between 2,200 and 2,500 season tickets will be sold. Staff is still holding some open to be able to have day of tickets available as well.
Georgia York is a second-year student journalist at Conestoga College. She has a passion for writing and giving a voice to those in need. I
n BioPed Footcare Clinic
HEALTH PRODUCTS & SERVICES / FOOT CARE
Najia Rizwan (647) 216-5980
Nhabib@bioped.com
300 King George Rd. Unit 102B Brantford, ON
n The Bold Bureau
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
James Wagner (519) 761-2015
James@theboldbureau.ca Brantford, ON
n Mindful Path Counselling Inc. MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES & COUNSELING CENTRES
Stephanie Dinsmore (226) 208-2722
Info@mindfulpathcounselling.ca Brantford, ON
n ShopBrantford.com
ADVERTISING AGENCIES & CONSULTANTS
Samantha Gernhart (519) 770-7358
Samantha@shopbrantford.com Brantford, ON
n Julie Henwood – TMG The Mortgage Group
MORTGAGE BROKERS
Julie Henwood (519) 802-2865
Julie@juliehenwoodhome.ca
Paris, ON
n TP Paralegal Notary Service
PARALEGALS
Tina Pierson (226) 802-5033
Tpparalegal40@gmail.com
Brantford, ON
This summer, President Paul Bisanti has taken a leadership role in the policy review process for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting and Policy Convention, occurring in Calgary in October.
Paul is a member of the CCC’s Policy Screening Committee, and is also cochairing the Ontario Caucus Advisory Council (OCAC) of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
Paul and CEO David Prang attend the weekly OCAC meetings with Chamber staff and volunteers from across Ontario. This summer, there are 73 resolutions for review covering themes in agriculture, digital economy, finance and taxation, health innovation, human resources, indigenous, international affairs, natural resources and the environment, transport, and special issues. The Council reviews a set of resolutions each week against a set of criteria and suitability to business, and brings those issues to its membership or back to the sponsoring Chamber for clarification.
The Chamber has written one policy, Strengthen the Resilience of Canada’s Food and Beverage Industry by Reinforcing and Stabilizing the Supply Chain of Strategic Commodities, and modernized a second policy, Driving Innovation in Canada. Additionally, the Chamber has co-sponsored a resolution from the KW and Cambridge Chambers titled Creating Systems to Provide Adequate Child-care Spaces to Ensure Parents – particularly womenHave Equal Opportunities to Enter
the Workforce.
This summer, the Chamber has been active on a national working group hosted by the Canadian Women’s Chamber of Commerce, to review and enhance recommendations by an outside group of student interns from equity-deserving groups about how Chambers of Commerce can demonstrate leadership in their communities in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, justice, and belonging principles within Chambers, and through leading or supporting community initiatives. Developing respectful and accessible pathways for businesses of all sizes and sectors to advance in these areas is a focus of the Chamber’s work in this area.
The Chamber was a signatory to two efforts by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce this summer as well. The Chamber pushed the federal government to bring labour stability to Canada’s West Coast ports during the labour disruption in July. Secondly, joining with over 250 other business organizations to encourage the extension of, or changes to, the CEBA loan program for small businesses, supported by our e-news polling earlier this year. Our friends at the Downtown Brantford BIA similarly supported this action in support of their membership. Work on updating our local policy initiatives in Transportation and Business-Friendly communities continued, and wider work on the Housing and Homelessness files continued as well.
We are looking forward to an engaging Mayors’ Luncheon on September 22nd with Mayor Kevin Davis and Mayor David Bailey. As our Chamber’s catchment area covers the City of Brantford and County of Brant, finding pathways for our two municipalities to growth together in mutually beneficial ways, while addressing mutual challenges, is essential to improving the quality of life through economic prosperity throughout Brantford and Brant. We look forward to seeing you there!
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In today’s evolving business landscape, community engagement and social responsibility have become essential elements for successful and sustainable enterprises. The Chamber of Commerce BrantfordBrant is proud to be the home of both business and nonprofit organizations who work so hard to improve the lives of those around us.
Local business leaders in BrantfordBrant have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact by
partnering with local nonprofit organizations. Such collaborations not only foster a stronger sense of community but also yield numerous benefits for both the businesses and the nonprofits involved.
Partnering with local nonprofits enables business leaders to forge meaningful connections within the community they serve. By aligning their efforts with nonprofit causes that resonate with local residents, businesses can become more than just commercial entities; they become valuable contributors to the well-being of the community. These ties build trust, loyalty, and goodwill among consumers, leading to increased brand recognition and customer loyalty.
Consumers today actively seek out businesses that demonstrate a commitment to social and environmental causes. Partnering with reputable local nonprofits allows business leaders to showcase their genuine dedication to social responsibility. A positive corporate reputation not only attracts more customers but also attracts top talent and fosters better relationships with other businesses and stakeholders.
Collaborations with nonprofit organizations provide local businesses with new marketing avenues. Nonprofits often have established networks and events that offer exposure to broader audiences. By participating in nonprofit initiatives, businesses gain visibility, raising awareness about their products and services in the process.
Non-profits serve a diverse range of individuals, and by partnering with them, businesses can tap into new customer segments they may not have reached through traditional marketing strategies. This expansion of the customer base can lead to increased sales and revenue streams.
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sales@bawagroup.net Website:
SERVICES OFFERED:
◆ Strategic HR Planning + Execution
◆ Workplace Audits Ensuring Compliance
◆ Policy Development + Training
◆ Employee Relations
■ Proven Track Record: Years of experience delivering HR solutions that bring tangible results.
■ Personalized Approach: Customized strategies that suit your unique business needs.
■ Cost-Effective Solutions: Professional consulting that fits your budget.
■ Drive Business Growth: HR services that contribute to increased efficiency and profitability.
MILLARD ROUSE & ROSEBRUGH LLP, 96 NELSON STREET, BRANTFORD, 519.759.3511
PARTNERS:
M.J. Dixon, CPA, CA • R.D. Sciannella CPA, CA, CBV • H.C. Johnston CPA, CA • S.E. Goodwin, CPA, CA • D.A. Cleary, CPA, CGA, CFI • S.D. Klein, CPA, CA • G.S. Gravett, CPA, CA • S.A. Salole, CPA, CA
• J.B. Baetz, CPA, CA • R.W. Storoschuk, CPA, CA • S.W. McGaghran, CPA, CA • J.E. Chowhan, CPA, CA
• P.E. Merrylees, CPA, CA • J.A. Laporte, CPA, CA • R.A. Parker, CPA, CGA, CFI • G.M. Malecki, CPA, CA
• Q.E. Bateson-Hotte, CPA, CA, LPA • W.A. Deane, CPA, CA
ASSOCIATES:
B.Y. Brenneman, CPA, CA • C.J. Storoschuk, CPA, CA • K.B. Weames, CPA, CA • D.E. Paxton, CPA, CA
• M.M. Malecki, CPA CA • N.T. Nguyen, CPA CA • S.C. Dykstra, CPA CA • Wes. E.B. Caldwell, CPA CA
• T.W. Schein, CPA, CA
With the increase in housing prices over the last number of years, many people are finding it difficult to save up for the minimum down payment. In Canada, minimum down payments are 5% on the first $500,000, and 10% which range between 5% and 20% depending on the value of the home.
In April 2023, the new First Home Savings Account (FHSA) was created to help first-time home buyers save for their first home tax free. This program combines features of Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs). Maximum lifetime contributions to the FHSA is limited to $40,000, the equivalent of a down payment on a $650,000 home. To qualify for this program, you must be between 18 and 71 years of age, a resident of Canada and you or your spouse did not own or jointly own a qualifying home as your principal place of residence at any time in the current calendar year before the account is opened or at any time in the preceding four calendar years.
Benefits of the FHSA
n Participation room is $8,000 annually, up to $40,000 over a lifetime
n Contributions to FHSA are deductible on your income tax return for the year of contribution
n Investment earnings within the FHSA are tax free
n You can transfer funds from your RRSP to your FHSA up to your unused FHSA participation room tax-free
n You can transfer funds back from your FHSA to your RRSP/RRIF without impacting your RRSP deduction room
n Qualifying withdrawals from FHSA to buy or build a qualifying home are tax free and do not have to be repaid
Downside of FHSA
n Maximum carryforward amount is $8,000, not cumulative of unused participation room
n Contributions to your FHSA in the first 60 days of the year cannot be deducted on your income tax return of the previous year, unlike RRSP contributions
n FHSAs can only exist for a maximum of 15 years from time of opening
n Taxes of 1% per month are payable on any FHSA contributions in excess of your available participation room
n Withdrawals from FHSA for nonqualifying purposes are taxable and subject to withholding tax at time or withdrawal
Other programs like the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive and the First-Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit are also still available to first-time homebuyers.
Although the FHSA is not a complete solution, it will help first-time homebuyers get on the path to first home savings.
For further information please do not hesitate to contact us at Millards at (519)759-3511 or visit us at www.millards.com I
The Chamber of Commerce Brantford Brant invites you to attend our 15th Annual Trade Show, held in partnership with the Best Western Brantford Hotel and Conference Centre.
This free event is open to the general public. Chamber members are welcome to encourage staff and bring a business colleague or client. Don’t forget your business cards; it’s the networking event of the year!
If you are a member of the Chamber of Commerce Brantford - Brant and would like to participate as an exhibitor, please contact Alex at alex@brcc.ca or call (519)753-2617. Exhibitor spaces are limited. STAY
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“Hidden Gem” Licensed Patio Events Small to Large with Customized On-Site Catering Call Today for a Property Tour!
19 Holiday Drive, Brantford | 519-753-8651 | www.bestwesternbrantford.com
Whether you’re ready to start a new endeavour or planning for retirement after successfully building your company - it may be time to start the process of selling your business. While no business sale will be the same, there are a few general matters to consider in any sale.
The first matter a business owner should consider is what type of sale is best for their business. There are two main types of business sale: the share sale and the asset sale.
Share Sale – In a share sale, the shareholder(s) sell their shares of a private corporation directly to the buyer. This type of sale involves the sale of the company itself, with the buyer essentially taking over the business. In a typical share sale, all assets and liabilities remain with the company and transfer to the new owner. The seller normally prefers a share sale since they can take advantage of capital gains treatment. The buyer may be subject to increased liability but could benefit from a share sale by buying the company’s brand and reputation which allows them to carry on a similar business more easily.
Asset Sale – In an asset sale, the company sells some or all of its business assets to the buyer. Business assets may include things such as inventory, equipment, buildings, working capital, accounts receivable,
intellectual property or contracts. However, the company itself is not sold. In an asset sale, the seller retains ownership of the company as a legal entity. Buyers typical prefer this form of sale because it minimizes their liability. After determining which type of sale is best for your company, it is necessary to ascertain the details of the sale. Here are just a few examples of things you may need to consider:
Corporate Records – Before a sale, all corporate records should be in order. It may be prudent to consult with a legal professional to confirm that corporate records are complete and up-to-date.
Employees – In a share sale, employees will remain with the company unless the purchase agreement states otherwise. During an asset transaction, it is usually necessary to terminate employees before the closing date of the transaction. A seller will want to take care to communicate with employees to avoid unnecessary liability or wrongful termination.
Consulting Agreements – A seller may consider having a post-closing employment or consulting agreement drafted as part of the transaction.
Frequently, the buyer may want to benefit from the expertise of the seller and is interested in retaining them as an employee or a consultant. It is important to negotiate the details of these kinds of agreements before closing.
Purchase Price and Financing – It is not uncommon for the buyer to not have the full amount of the purchase price available on closing. Often it may be necessary to implement some form of secured agreement that allows the buyer to pay out the amount of a period of time. A seller should consider what types of financing and security protect their interests.
If you’re trying to decide what type of sale is best for your business, or need assistance with the details of a sale, the corporate lawyers of Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP have the experience and expertise to assist in all nature of business transactions.
Deadline for nominations: October 1st, 2023 GET YOUR NOMINATIONS IN TODAY
Email: chamber@brcc.ca
Online: www.brantfordbrantchamber.com
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are joining up with the Child and Family Services of Grand Erie (CFSGE) to help families make unforgettable memories. CFSGE is a mandated child welfare agency that provides protection services to children across a large jurisdiction.
The foundations have teamed up to give opportunities to families and foster families who are looking to have some fun with the kids. Helping those who may be struggling financially by sharing an amazing experience at the Tim Hortons Field stadium.
“We’ve got a couple of events hooked up that will allow kids to go and have fun at the Ti-Cats game, socialize, and do things that they might not otherwise be able to do,” said Sally Johnson, Executive Director of CFSGE.
The youth social services organization is based in Brantford but reaches out beyond the city by amalgamating two agencies last year to create a newly formed agency.
“We try and get them connected to other services and supports in the community, but recreation and fun is a big part of family life and managing family,” said Johnson.
Having a place for everybody no matter if you enjoy sports or not is a huge priority that the Tiger-Cats staff have succeeded in immensely. With a Stripes’ Jungle playground for kids to the Premium Club Suite perfect for hosting, there truly is a place for everyone at the Tim Hortons Field stadium.
There is no bad spot to watch the game with their 360-degree stadium access to have an incredible view of the field wherever you go. Escaping reality for a few hours is simple when you’re met with unique outdoor bars like The Stipley which stretches from sideline to sideline, giving you close-up experiences to the game and players. The sports community is special in a way where thousands of people come together in one place for a like-minded cause even though we all share different opinions and views.
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The owner of the Hamilton TigerCats Bob Young calls himself the “Caretaker” as he treats the stadium like a community centre, ensuring that people be brought together in the name of the game.
Enjoy food, beverages, and fun activities at the FirstOntario Community Lounge which is a freeto-access space for fans. The lounge also features a 40-foot-wide collage celebrating Tiger-Cats fans and the region.
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Nonprofit partnerships offer employees opportunities for skill development and team-building exercises outside of their regular work environments. Through volunteer work or collaboration on specific projects, employees can gain new skills, boost morale, and enhance their sense of purpose.
leaders and non-profit organizations are a win-win proposition. Not only do they promote community well-being and social progress, but they also enhance the businesses’ reputation, visibility, and financial standing. Please take a moment to check out the Nonprofit Member Directory online to see a comprehensive list of the Chamber’s nonprofit members; there are so many groups doing so many good things, and they’d love any support available.
Between community programs that encourage youth to get active and have some fun, and the palpable atmosphere that radiates throughout the stadium, family and friends will remember their first game for many years to come.
By joining forces with local nonprofits, business leaders play a direct role in driving meaningful social change. They contribute to solving local issues, improving the lives of community members, and leaving a lasting positive impact.
Partnerships between local business
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In an era where conscious consumerism is on the rise, embracing social responsibility through nonprofit collaborations is not just an option but an essential aspect of successful business practices. Together, businesses and nonprofits can create stronger, more resilient communities that pave the way for a brighter future. I
Have you ever encountered a colleague or an employee experiencing a mental health problem or crisis? What did you do?
Did you feel uncomfortable or illprepared? Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) can help.
What is Mental Health First Aid?
MHFA is the help provided to a person;
n developing a mental health problem
n experiencing the worsening of an existing mental health problem
n experiencing a mental health crisis
n Just like physical first aid is provided until medical treatment can be obtained, MHFA is given until appropriate support is found or until the crisis is resolved.
How does Mental Health First Aid Help?
MFHA:
n Engages confidently where a person may be a danger to themselves or others
n Provides help to prevent the mental health problem from developing into a more serious state
n Promotes the recovery of good mental health
n Provides comfort to a person experiencing a mental health problem
What topics are covered in the course?
The course addresses four of the most common and most stigmatized mental health disorders and includes signs/ symptoms, risk factors, and crisis first aid for specific situations:
n Substance-Related Disorders
n Crisis First Aid for Overdose
n Mood-Related Disorders o Crisis First Aid for Suicidal Behaviour
n Crisis First Aid for Suicidal Behaviour
n Anxiety and Trauma-related Disorders
n Crisis First Aid for Panic Attack
n Crisis First Aid for Acute Stress Reaction
n Psychotic Disorders o Crisis First Aid for Psychotic Episode
n Crisis First Aid for Psychotic Episode
Mental Health First Aid
Cost Commitment:
Course Manuals and materials – $50/ person
Instructor Fee – FREE
What is the time commitment to attend?
This is a 12 hour course. The course is
held over two days. The time of the course can be confirmed by suggested hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day.
A minimum of eight participants is required as per the rules of Mental Health First Aid Canada. The maximum class size is 25.
Does the mental health first aid training certification expire?
No. Currently there is no expiry date and it is not a requirement to retake the course within a certain period of time. It is, however, recommended that a person retake the course every two years as a refresher.
Questions or clarifications regarding the course? Please contact:
Krysta Hajovic Health PromoterKrysta.Hajovic@bchu.org
n 2267677 Ontario Inc. (Access Self Storage)
n Advanced Office Solutions
n Beattie Animal Hospital
n BigSteelBox
n BML Roofing Systems Inc.
n Bobcat of Brantford
n Boyle Plumbing & Heating Co. Ltd.
n Brant Community Foundation
n Brant County Health Unit
n Brant Renewable Energy
n Brooks Signs
n Careerlink Employment Centre
n CIBC LPM Banking Centre
n Terry Collins
n Corner Motor Sales Limited
n CPM Group Corp.
n Craig Wright Design
n The Design Thinking Agency
n Elements Casino Brantford
n Family Care Chiropractic
n Fastsigns of Brantford
n Rhonda Fawcett
n First Defence Pest Control
n Fowler Metal Industries Ltd.
n Grand & Toy
n Grand Financial Planning
n Grand Wellness Centre
n Hairways
n Hawco Products Limited
n Heron Head Bikes
n IBC Computers Brantford Inc.
n Impact DJ
n InSitu Remediation Services Ltd.
n International Trade Consulting Inc.
n Kobi’s Delivery
n Lansdowne Children’s Centre
n The Marco Corporation
n Mohawk College of Applied Arts & Technology
n The Mufflerman
n Charing Cross Implant Denture Clinic
n Octopus Red
n One Choice Logistics Inc.
n Patricia’s Ladies Wear
n PRODIGY Personnel
n Pynx Productions
n Rawlings Sporting Goods Co. Inc. Canadian Division
n Seasons Brantford Retirement Community
n ServiceMaster of Brantford
n SongBird Marketing Communications
n David V. McKee(Town Crier)
n Underwood, Ion & Johnson Law
n Valley Green Grounds Care
n VIA Rail Canada
n Wade Antenna, Inc.
n Whatcha Wanna Wear - Custom Logo Products
With extensive experience in planning and consulting through all life stages, Darrell and Cristine can help you attain your financial goals through achievable holistic planning and tax-efficient strategies.
Contact Darrell or Cristine and get started on your personalized financial plan today!
We care about what you care about.
Proudly independent and Canadianowned, Cowan Financial Solutions puts your needs first with bespoke financial consulting and planning that meets your individual goals, helping you to protect your wealth and achieve financial security.
Wealth accumulation
Education, retirement, and estate planning
Risk management
darrell.chittenden@cowangroup.ca
T: 519-720-2731
cristine.misiak@cowangroup.ca
T: 519-720-6073
Cash flow and credit counselling cowangroup.ca
Nominations are open for the 2024 - 2026 term.
TO APPLY YOU MUST:
1. Be a member of the Chamber of Commerce Brantford - Brant in good standing.
2. Send your expression of interest to david@brcc.ca by September 29th.
The Chamber welcomes nominations from diverse backgrounds and experience.