July 2025 InTouch Magazine by Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant

From Vision to Vibrancy

Cover: GVES and Chamber Past President Colleen Miller.

1ST

Joy

2ND

Mike Gatopoulos

TREASURER

Eardly

PAST

Chris Rayfield

ACIC Pharmaceuticals Inc.

DIRECTORS

Bill Emmott

Brant County Federation of Agriculture

Julie Henwood TMG The Mortgage Group

John Imola Bank of Montreal

Elizabeth Lorenzin Lorenzin Strategy

Maxwell Roach

JonAyves Learning Club

Rob Simmons Cozzmic Communications

Jennifer Stebbing

Stebbing Butcher PC

Caitlin

Amey Hitchon LLP

Don Williamson Oak House Benefits

SECRETARY

David Prang

LIAISONS

John

Rose

Elizabeth

ADMINISTRATION

Sathya

Message from the President

Chamber Reflects on a Dynamic First Half, Looks Ahead with Optimism

Welcome to Summer! The first half of 2025 has been one of the busiest in recent memory for the Chamber, with two elections completing the calendar filled with events and meetings, on top of the challenges of uncertainty created by the US tariffs, and the final details on the Chamber’s community book, A River Runs Through Us!

Advocacy continues to be at the forefront of our priorities—especially in light of evolving tariff policies. The Chamber has enhanced its working relationships with our economic development departments and the Downtown Brantford BIA, and remains engaged nationally and provincially on tariff, trade, and business development issues.

In late May, our Past Presidents gathered for special event celebrating the leaders who have shaped our organization and championed business prosperity in Brantford-Brant. Their dedication continues to inspire us, and we are grateful for their ongoing contributions to our Chamber and community.

The Chamber recently completed an insightful Member Engagement Study, which has provided us with valuable feedback on what is working well for members, and what we can improve on to better serve current and future members. Look for more details about what we heard in future Chamber publications. We are committed to implementing the findings in future programming, events, and services.

Governance remains a priority as well, and the Chamber looks forward to bringing essential bylaw improvements forward that enhance the efficiency,

David Prang, CEO

transparency, and leadership structure of the organization as permitted under the Board of Trade Act Part 2. These changes reflect our dedication to staying forward-thinking while

maintaining our core mission. Planning has already begun for our 2026 Events and Programs, as we adjust to the changing political landscape and economic circumstances. We incorporate feedback and ideas received from members and staff in building our annual calendar, please connect if you have an idea that could benefit our membership.

Your investment in the Chamber is what makes all of this possible. As we navigate the complexities of the year ahead, know that we are here to support and advocate for you. I look forward to seeing you at an event soon or connecting directly to discuss how we can continue to grow together.

Have a safe and relaxing summer, and see you September!

David Prang

Member Privileges

Being a member of the Chamber has its privileges

These programs and services directly impact your bottom line, saving both time and money.

From savings on fuel ($0.035) per litre, to savings on office supplies that are delivered to your door, from our connection with BarterPay to the best shipping services worldwide, the variety of programs can easily pay your membership in the first year.

We also have an exclusive Member2Member Discount Program which promotes members buying products and services from members, enhancing our local economy and the adage, ‘when price and service are comparable, shop a Chamber Member!’

For more information on these programs, or to join the Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant contact Greg Evans, Director, Member Relations at: greg@chamberbrantfordbrant.com or call 519-753-2617

Tenaxx Group: Driving the Future of Logistics

Tenaxx Group is a dynamic, familyand women-owned logistics powerhouse headquartered in Brantford, Ontario. With a strong North American footprint and a reputation for reliability, Tenaxx offers end-toend supply chain solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.

Operating over 250,000 sq. ft. of warehousing space across Brantford and Calgary—and backed by a robust fleet of 50 trucks, 150 trailers, and 10 straight trucks—Tenaxx delivers scalable transportation and 3PL solutions across North America.

Whether it’s truckload services, warehousing, straight truck deliveries, or strategic third-party logistics, Tenaxx makes it seamless.

What truly sets Tenaxx apart is its customer-first mindset and operational agility. The company’s infrastructure and culture are built to adapt—fast. From small businesses to large enterprises, clients trust Tenaxx for reliability, responsiveness, and personalized support that feels more like partnership than service.

As Tenaxx grows, it does so with purpose. Plans are underway for a state-of-the-art freezer and

cooler facility by 2026, expanding its warehousing capabilities and supporting job creation—with 50+ new roles anticipated across its network.

But growth isn’t just measured in square feet. Tenaxx is actively driving sustainability through smarter routing, fleet modernization, and energy-efficient operations. With a focus on reducing emissions and environmental impact, Tenaxx is charting a greener path forward— without compromising service excellence.

Tenaxx Group is more than a logistics company. It’s a bold, forward-thinking team rewriting what modern supply chains can look like—powered by innovation, integrity, and a commitment to community.

To learn more, visit: www.tenaxxgroup.com or contact support@tenaxxgroup.com I

Member Profile Speak Technique

Deliver

Dynamic Presentations, Attract Clients, and Advance Your Career

How can you connect with over 100 potential clients in

most powerful tools to promote your business and expand your reach is public speaking. While social media may reach the masses, inperson presentations create lasting impressions and real connections. There’s just one problem. Public speaking is the number one fear in North America. Death is number two.

As comedian Jerry Seinfeld once joked, most people would rather be in the coffin than delivering the eulogy!

of communication work in harmony to flow with your words, public speaking can be a beautiful thing!

Barb Day is a Certified World Class Speaking Coach and an awardwinning speaker. She works with

Barb offers a complimentary consultation to explore your goals. Special rates are available for Chamber of Commerce members, students, and seniors. Together, we’ll unlock your full potential to become a successful presenter.

CHCH-WYA-h-7.75nX5in_MLTEAM-MAY2025.pdf 22 2025-05-15 3:10:24 PM

Locally brewed

First-Time Home Buyers GST Rebate (FTHB)

On May 27, 2025, the government tabled a legislative proposal that would eliminate or reduce the GST for first-time home buyers on new homes purchases. Although the bill has not yet been passed, we wanted to provide details of the current proposal so that first-time home buyers and builders can plan ahead.

Under the proposal, the FTHB GST Rebate would recover 100% of the GST paid on new homes costing up to $1 million, resulting in savings of up to $50,000. For new homes costing between $1 million and $1.5 million, the FTHB GST Rebate would be phased out in a linear manner. No FTHB GST Rebate is available for new homes valued at or above $1.5 million.

To be eligible for this rebate, the following conditions need to be met:

Qualifying Homes

n a new home purchased from a builder;

n a new home you built or hired someone else to build on land you own or lease; or

n shares you purchased of a cooperative housing corporation

Eligible Buyers

n a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada

n aged 18 years or older

n have not lived in a home, whether in or outside Canada, that they owned or that their spouse or common-law partner owned in the calendar year or in the four preceding calendar years

n neither the buyer and/or their spouse or common-law partner has previously claimed the FTHB GST Rebate

Occupancy Requirements

n the home is acquired for use as the purchaser’s primary place of residence

n the purchaser is the first individual to occupy the home

Timing Requirements

n the agreement of purchase and sale must be entered into on or after May 27, 2025 but before 2031 **

n construction must be started before 2031 and substantially completed before 2036 legal title to the home must be transferred/conveyed to the buyer before 2036

** for assignment sales, the FTHB GST Rebate is not available if the original agreement of purchase and sale was entered into before May 27, 2025

For further information please do not hesitate to contact us at Millard’s at 519-759-3511 or visit us at millards.com I

Pam Merrylees, CPA, CA, LPA Partner

SUPPORT FOR MEDIUM & SMALL BUSINESSES

Ontario is committed to helping small and medium-sized businesses succeed. Below is a snapshot of the support available — all designed to boost stability, growth, and innovation in our communities.

INVEST ONTARIO

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (MEDJCT)

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING & INNOVATION COMPETITIVENESS (AMIC) STREAM

decision-making and streamline growth. With a focus on fostering innovation and economic development, Invest Ontario serves as a strategic partner for companies aiming to succeed in one of Canada’s most dynamic business environments.

Invest Ontario is a government program supporting strategic investments in advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and technology. It helps businesses looking to establish or expand in Ontario by providing tailored insights on market opportunities, incentives, talent, and immigration. The program offers high-quality, timely intelligence to guide decision-making and streamline growth. With a focus on fostering innovation and economic development, Invest Ontario serves as a strategic partner for companies aiming to succeed in one of Canada’s most dynamic business environments.

The Regional Development Program supports economic growth in eastern and southwestern Ontario through the Eastern and Southwestern Ontario Development Funds. Targeted at established businesses in sectors like manufacturing, eligible companies must have 3+ years of operations and employ at least 10 people (or 5 in rural areas). Projects must involve a minimum investment of $500,000 ($200,000 in rural areas) and create at least 5 new jobs. Support includes loans up to 15% (max $5 million) and grants in select cases.

a minimum investment of $500,000 ($200,000 in rural areas) and create at least 5 new jobs. Support includes loans up to 15% (max $5 million) and grants in select cases.

ONTARIO TOGETHER TRADE FUND (OTTF)

The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) provides financial support to businesses making near-term investments to expand interprovincial trade, develop new markets, and re-shore critical supply chains impacted by U.S. trade disruptions. Projects must align with Ontario’s priorities, including trade diversity and security. Eligible businesses must operate in Ontario and invest at least $200,000 in qualified project costs. Funding levels are determined based on project impact. OTTF is currently accepting applications—check program guidelines for full eligibility details.

TRADE-IMPACTED COMMUNITIES PROGRAM (TICP)

The Trade-Impacted Communities Program (TICP) supports Ontario communities and industries affected by U.S. trade disruptions. It offers two funding streams: Stream 1 supports community economic development projects with funding from $250,000 to $2 million; Stream 2 funds large-scale, collaborative projects aimed at transforming local clusters and supply chains, with support from $2 million to $10 million. Both streams may cover up to 100% of eligible costs. Projects must align with Ontario’s economic priorities. Applications are currently being accepted.

The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) Stream supports projects that enhance competitiveness in Ontario’s key industries, including aerospace, automotive, chemical, ICT, life sciences, and steel. Eligible businesses must have at least 3 years of operations and employ a minimum of 10 people. The program offers loans of up to 15% of project costs, to a maximum of $5 million. Grants are available in specific cases. AMIC helps businesses invest in innovation, productivity, and long-term growth in Ontario.

offers loans of up to 15% of project costs, to a maximum of $5 million. Grants are available in specific cases. AMIC helps businesses invest in innovation, productivity, and long-term growth in Ontario.

ONTARIO AUTOMOTIVE MODERNIZATION PROGRAM (O-AMP)

The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) supports small- and medium-sized Ontario-based automotive parts suppliers in boosting supply chain competitiveness. It offers funding for projects in process technology adoption, lean manufacturing, and tools for new product development. Eligible companies must have fewer than 500 Ontario employees, under $1 billion in global revenues, and earn at least 50% of sales from the automotive sector. Grants of up to $150,000 cover up to 50% of project costs. Applications are currently open.

CONSTITUENCY OFFICE

Suite 101, 96 Nelson Street

Suite 101, 96 Nelson Street Brantford Ontario N3T 2X1

Brantford Ontario N3T 2X1

Suite 101, 96 Nelson Street Brantford Ontario N3T 2X1

Tel: 519-759-0361

E-mail: will.bouma@pc.ola.org

Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

ONTARIO MADE MANUFACTURING INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT (MOF)

The Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit offers a 15% tax credit—up to $2 million annually—for manufacturers investing in buildings, machinery, or equipment. It helps reduce costs, encourage innovation, and boost competitiveness across Ontario’s manufacturing sector.

REGIONAL INNOVATION CENTRES (RICS)

Regional Innovation Centres (RICs) support Ontario’s entrepreneurs and early-stage innovation and technology companies with high growth potential. Located in 18 regions across the province, RICs provide guidance to help businesses refine ideas, attract talent and capital, and succeed in global markets. Services include mentorship, programming, and connections tailored to the needs of startups and scaling companies. RICs are ideal for innovators looking to overcome early-stage challenges and build a competitive edge. Contact your local RIC for support.

LIFE SCIENCES INNOVATION FUND (LSIF)

FUND (LSIF)

LIFE SCIENCES INNOVATION FUND (LSIF)

The Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF) is an early-stage co-investment fund supporting Ontario-based companies in the life sciences and healthcare technologies sectors. It targets entrepreneurs advancing innovative, capital-intensive health solutions from concept to commercialization. Eligible companies may receive up to $500,000 in early-stage risk capital to help scale their made-in-Ontario innovations domestically and globally. While the fund addresses critical early growth challenges, LSIF is currently not accepting new applications. Stay informed for future funding opportunities.

LIFE SCIENCES SCALE-UP FUND (LSSUF)

The Life Sciences Scale-Up Fund (LSSUF) supports Ontario-based (or relocating) small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the life sciences sector with up to $500,000 in early-stage risk capital. The fund helps SMEs scale operations, commercialize healthcare innovations, build domestic manufacturing capacity, and strengthen Ontario’s healthcare supply chain. It targets companies positioned to respond to procurement opportunities and drive sector growth. While the program is currently not accepting new applications, it plays a key role in supporting life sciences scale-up efforts.

BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICES (MEDJCT)

Business Advisory Services (MEDJCT) supports established small and medium-sized businesses (10-500 employees), primarily in manufacturing and ICT, to identify growth opportunities and overcome challenges. Advisors offer tailored advice on accessing capital, improving organizational strengths, navigating government regulations, and connecting with local partners and other government levels. The program also facilitates networking, business capacity building, and referrals to programs for technology adoption and export readiness—helping businesses scale and succeed in competitive markets.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ONTARIO (IPON)

Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON) is a provincial crown agency supporting Ontario innovators and entrepreneurs in maximizing the value of their intellectual property. IPON offers expert education, mentorship, and financial support to help businesses strengthen IP strategies, boost growth, and improve commercialization outcomes. Eligible applicants may receive up to $100,000 per year in IP funding, with a lifetime cap of $300,000. An additional $25,000 annually is available for equity-deserving groups. Applications are currently open.

Cover Story

From Vision to Vibrancy

How the Grand Valley Educational Society Helped Transform BrantfordBrant Through Post-Secondary Education

As early as 1899, the Chamber of Commerce was noted in the media of the day as supporting additional technical education in high schools. This work evolved over the years to include a 1971 post-secondary commission co-chaired with the Brantford and District Labour Council Committee on Civic Affairs, working towards a college which became Mohawk College, part of Ontario’s visionary development of the college system in 1965, which recently celebrated its 60th Anniversary. Curiously, the same committee also investigated the case for regional government at that time. The committee evolved into the Council on Continuing Education, which created SkillsNet, a program the

Chamber hosted from 1978-1995. The Chamber later became a champion of post-secondary education through its involvement and support of the Grand Valley Educational Society from 1996 to 2024, and beyond.

The Grand Valley Educational Society stands as a testament to what grassroots vision, persistence, and partnership can achieve. Incorporated in 1996, GVES was born from a strategic plan initially supported by Enterprise Brant to revitalize Brantford through education, ultimately becoming the community catalyst for one of Ontario’s most compelling stories of transformation.

GVES emerged with one audacious goal: to attract a university to Brantford.

With factories closing and youth migrating to other cities for education, GVES believed that expanding postsecondary access would be essential to reversing economic decline. Their efforts led to a pivotal moment in 1998 when a Declaration of Intent was signed by Wilfrid Laurier University, the City of Brantford, and GVES to open a satellite campus downtown.

By fall 1999, the dream became reality. The Carnegie Building, a donated historic library, was transformed into Laurier’s first Brantford campus building. From just 39 pioneer students, the campus has flourished to over 3,000, offering more than 20 academic programs and occupying 17 buildings downtown. Laurier’s Brantford campus has not only become a hub of academic innovation—with programs like Game Design and User Experience Design—but also a driver of urban renewal, blending adaptive reuse of historic buildings with modern educational spaces.

This spring, Laurier celebrated the graduation of its 10,000 Golden Hawk from the Brantford Campus. At the Annual Business Excellence Awards, the Chamber recognized founding GVES Chair Colleen Miller with the David Baxter Outstanding Achievement Award for her contributions in leading the organization throughout its lifetime. Continued on Page 26 >

Above: Colleen Miller of the Grand Valley Educational Society holds a photo of the ribbon cutting that officially opened Laurier’s Brantford campus on Oct. 1, 1999. Miller is pictured at center in the historic image, along with former City of Brantford mayor Chris Friel and former Laurier president and vice-chancellor Bob Rosehart.

Above: Grand Valley Educational Society receives the order of Wilfrid Laurier University in 2019.

Ask a Lawyer Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP

Defects in Real Estate Transactions

When buying or selling real property, it is essential for all parties to understand the legal implications of visible and hidden issues—referred to in real estate as patent and latent defects.

Patent vs. Latent Defects

A patent defect is one that can be discovered through a reasonable visual inspection of the property. Examples include damaged walls, visible water leaks, or broken windows.

A latent defect, on the other hand, is not apparent on a standard inspection and may require invasive investigation to detect. Common examples include structural damage, concealed water damage, or electrical issues hidden behind walls.

No Obligation to Disclose Patent Defects

Generally, a seller is under no legal obligation to disclose patent defects. Buyers are expected to conduct a reasonable inspection of the property and identify any obvious issues themselves. Regardless of whether such an inspection occurs, the seller is typically not responsible for remedying visible or discoverable defects.

Buyers should always exercise due diligence by arranging for a professional inspection and seeking

advice where appropriate. A buyer cannot rely on the lack of inspection to shift the responsibility for patent defects to the seller.

While inspections help identify patent defects, they can also support a buyer’s claim that a subsequently discovered latent defect was not reasonably visible at the time of purchase.

Most buyers include a home inspection condition in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS), allowing time for a professional assessment before the deal becomes firm. If the inspection reveals significant concerns, the buyer may request a price reduction or withdraw from the transaction entirely.

Disclosure of Latent Defects

Sellers are obligated to disclose any latent defects of which they are aware of, particularly if such defects render the property dangerous or uninhabitable. However, if the seller is genuinely unaware of a latent defect,

they are not required to disclose it. Failure to disclose known latent defects may expose the seller to liability for the buyer’s resulting damages, which often include substantial repair costs.

If a latent defect is discovered prior to closing and the buyer proceeds with the purchase despite the lack of disclosure, the buyer generally loses the right to pursue the seller for damages related to that defect.

If you or your clients are involved in the purchase or sale of a property and have concerns regarding patent or latent defects, the lawyers at Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP have the knowledge and experience to assist.

Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP Brantford 20 Wellington St., Brantford.

Courtney Boyd, Lawyer

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BRANTFORD • BRANT

Chamber Champions for Change

I’m a member of the Chamber. How about you? Are you a member?” That’s usually how I start conversations when I’m at a Chamber event. Nothing like the Advocacy Chair getting straight to the point – always recruiting for the Chamber and eager to share our latest advocacy efforts, which lately has been quite often.

I never imagined when I assumed the position of Chair of the Advocacy Committee that we would be fighting – literally fighting – to make sure our Chamber position is heard 24/7 in 2025.

I can reassure you that in the first half of 2025, your Chamber Advocacy Committee has been extremely busy.

Every month, the Chamber Advocacy Committee meets. And every month, we strategize our next move.

Do we need to be in front of Branford City Council? Brant County Council? Do we need a meeting with our local Member of Parliament?

The Ontario Ministry of Finance? Who do we need to call? Who do we need to meet? And we go. We present. We delegate. We state. We persuade. We ask.

We don’t back down. We stand firm.

Let me repeat that just in case you didn’t get it on the first read.

We don’t back down. We stand firm.

You need to know this about your Chamber President John Oddi, your Board of Directors, your Chair of the Advocacy Committee (me), Vice Chair Courtney Lucas and your Advocacy Committee members.

But here’s the thing about advocates: the more there are of us, the better off our entire Chamber membership will be. To my fellow Chamber members, I am asking you today, if you share our passion for this community Brantford-Brant, if you are ready to make the time commitment (which is significant and is sometimes during the day and/or evenings), if you have strong public speaking skills, understand how to navigate the three (3) levels of government, believe deep down to your core that we are better when our voice is strong, heard and united – then reach out to me. Your Advocacy Committee is actively recruiting for members who reflect the rich diversity of our membership, the variety of perspectives and experiences across industry and non-profit sectors – just like the modern, progressive Chamber we aspire to be. We sincerely hope you will consider lending your unique background and insights to our vital advocacy work.

And besides. The next time you attend a Chamber event, you won’t be asking the person next to you if they are a member. They will be. Because of you. For the more we all believe in our Chamber advocacy work, the more of us there will naturally be.

Elizabeth Lorenzin is Chair of the Advocacy Committee. Reach out to Elizabeth if you are interested in learning about how you can contribute to our advocacy efforts.

Email: elizabeth@lorenzinstrategy.com

Call/text: 519-209-5682.

Advocacy

Advocacy in Action

An introduction: My name is Courtney Lucas, and I am your 2025 Vice Chair of the Advocacy Committee.

I would like to share that your Advocacy Committee has had a very busy Spring, advocating for our members, advocating for our community Brantford-Brant and most importantly – actively engaging with local leadership to champion the priorities of our community.

Here’s a look at some of our recent impactful meetings:

In April, we had the pleasure of hosting Mayor David Bailey and Brandon Webb, Research and Marketing Economic Development Officer for the County of Brant, at our Charlotte Street boardroom. Ahead of the meeting, we shared our top three advocacy priorities for 2024-25: support for small and medium-sized businesses, housing and homelessness, and transportation. Mayor Bailey was keen to provide updates on all fronts.

On transportation, we discussed the challenges and the community’s strong desire for improved public transit connections. When it came to housing, Mayor Bailey truly captured the Advocacy Committee’s attention with his insights into innovative solutions, reiterating the vital need for community collaboration.

For our small and medium-sized businesses, the Mayor addressed “The Downtown Dig,” emphasizing the commitment to minimize disruption during essential infrastructure upgrades.

May brought another crucial discussion as we met with Bonnie Camm, President and CEO of the Brant Community Healthcare System, alongside Kari Wilson, Executive Director, and Lee Ferrao, Chair, from the Brant Community Healthcare

System Foundation. They underscored the collective effort required from the community as we work towards a new hospital for our region and secure critical investments and upgrades for our healthcare infrastructure.

Advocacy Committee members also received the Strategic Plan 2025-2030 “Leading Beyond Care,” and were very impressed by the fact that over 1,600 voices shaped this comprehensive document.

The Chamber is committed to fostering these vital conversations and advocating for a thriving Brantford-Brant. What local issues are most important to your business right now? Let us know. We’d love to hear from you.

Submitted by Courtney Lucas, VitaHeal Homecare, clucas@vitahealhomecare.ca, 2025 Vice Chair of the Advocacy Committee.

Left to Right: David Diegel, Chair of the BCHS Board of Directors, Councillor Mandy Samwell, City of Brantford, Harold Stahl, Co-Chair of the BCHS Patient Family Advisory Council, Mayor David Bailey, County of Brant, Bonnie Camm, President & CEO of BCHS, Lisa Parsons, Representing MPP Will Bouma, Lee Ferrao, Chair of the BCHS Foundation Board of Directors

BCHS 2025-30 Strategic Plan Event, Leading Beyond Care

58th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our generous sponsors and to everyone who joined us for the day. This year’s tournament was a huge success thanks to everyone’s support. Our tournament wouldn’t happen without your support.

Combo Sponsors

• Cowan Insurance Group

• Grandbridge Energy

• Oak House Benefits

• Ponder Recruiting

• Orlando Corporation

Competition Hole Sponsors

• City of Brantford

• Hotline Apparell

• Joshua Wall - Real Broker Ontario Ltd.

Golfer Bag Donations

Tee Sponsors

• Insitu Remediation Services Ltd.

• R.L. Lancaster Construction

• TD Commercial Banking

• Vive Brant Mechanical Services

• BML Multi-Trades Group Ltd.

Putting Contest Sponsor

RBC Commercial Banking

• Hampton Inn & Marriott Towneplace Suites

• S. C. Johnson and Son, Limited

• Six Nations Polytechnic

• Workforce Synergy

• Specsavers Lynden Park Mall

• Cornerstone Capital Financial Group

Restaurant Raffle Donors

• Devlin’s Country Bistro

• Myra’s Bar & Grill

• Nine North

• Crabby Joe’s Brantford

• Roylene’s Sweet Treats

• The Sherwood

• Sociable

• Jade’s of Paris

• Elements Casino

Green Sponsors

• Insitu Remediation Services Ltd.

• Sharp Bookkeeping

• Valhalla Mortgages

Cart Sponsors

• Charlotte Villa Retirement Residence

• Riverview Terrace

Raffle proceeds in support of

Pictures courtesy of Photohouse Studio

Ask the Experts

Energy Efficient Upgrades Could Mean Big Savings for Your Small Business

Has your contact information changed?

We need to know!

DPatrick Falzon Powerline Specialist, Electrical Safety Authority

id you know that your business could qualify for financial incentives through the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)’s Save on Energy Small Business Program with incentives of up to $3,000 for eligible lighting equipment and up to $2,500 for eligible non-lighting equipment?

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) Small Business Program is designed to help small businesses across Ontario make equipment improvements to reduce their business’ energy consumption at no additional cost. Leveraging the success of the former Small Business Lighting program, this new and improved program offers small businesses direct-install incentives on an expanded range of equipment, including both lighting and non-lighting products. Energyefficient equipment upgrades are an investment in enhancing your customers’ experience, employee satisfaction and your bottom line.

Who is eligible?

n Businesses with 50 or fewer employees.

n Participants who previously participated in the former Save on Energy Small Business Lighting program, Refrigeration Efficiency program, Business Refrigeration Incentive program, and Rooftop Units (RTU) Saver program may be eligible for certain upgrades.

n Businesses that participated in a

Choose one of three ways to share your

Save on Energy program before April 1, 2019, are still eligible to apply to the new Small Business Program.

How to apply?

The IESO Small Business Program is a simple and easy solution to improve the energy efficiency of your small business.

1. Call 1-833-825-7283 or visit the Save On Energy webpage saveonenergy.ca/For-YourSmall-Business to schedule a free on-site assessment to identify energy-efficiency opportunities for your business, including lighting, refrigeration and smart thermostat upgrades.

2. After the assessment, the IESO will present you with options for energyefficient upgrades that can be installed in your business, at no cost to you. If you choose to proceed, you will be sent a participant agreement and work order for your review and signature.

3. Qualified Save on Energy delivery partners in your local area will

If your phone number, cell number or email address has changed, don’t forget to update your GrandBridge Energy account. We need this important information to contact you about planned power outages or other urgent service updates. I

WEBSITE grandbridgeenergy.com

Please include your account number and service address when CUSTOMER SERVICE 519-751-3522

handle the entire installation process of the upgrades on your behalf – everything from searching for a qualified contractor to obtaining quotes, scheduling installations, and even project management of the retrofit and cleanup.

Learn more about programs and incentives for Small Businesses from Save on Energy here. saveonenergy.ca/ For-Your-Small-Business

Want to learn more about how energyefficient upgrades can improve your business’s bottom line?

Contact the IESO at 1-833-825-7283 or email info@smallbusinessprogram.ca

GrandBridge Energy, the local electricity distributor in Brantford and Brant County, is committed to energy transformation and helping our customers and communities create a sustainable and resilient future.

To learn more about GrandBridge Energy, visit our website, grandbridgeenergy.com

Introducing Our Roadmap to a Sustainable Future

GrandBridge Energy is proud to share our 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report. This inaugural report strengthens our commitment to environmental sustainability, social impact and governance accountability. Take a look at highlights of our journey to date and learn how we are building our roadmap to a sustainable future.

Check out our report at grandbridgeenergy.com/report.

Membership Corner

BrantfordBrant’s Educational Legacy Drives Progres

This issue of In Touch has a special focus on the Grand Valley Educational Society and its lasting impact in our region. The Chamber is fortunate to have so many engaged educational partners, a unique feature of our community that our Chamber colleagues of similar sizes across the country are envious of. Since its founding in 1996, the GVES has played a key role in transforming Brantford-Brant into a thriving centre for education. What began as a grassroots effort by a group of local visionaries has grown into a legacy of real, lasting impact, with thousands of students, staff and faculty contributing to the economy and vibrancy of our region.

GVES deserves the accolades as a volunteer organization for creating the incubation space to bring Wilfrid Laurier University to Brantford, kickstarting the ongoing process of downtown revitalization. As a Golden Hawk myself, I’m always so excited seeing purple and gold around the Chamber’s office. Conestoga College and Six Nations Polytechnic have both expanded into Brantford to add handson training in fields that support local industry and innovation, in addition to core post-secondary programs serving our region, and a focus on Indigenous education and academic excellence.

The Grand Erie District School Board and Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, and our independent schools like Chamber member Braemar House School, prepare our elementary and secondary students for lifelong learning, skills development, and meaningful careers.

Their commitment to student success has helped create a strong foundation for our region’s future.

Partners like the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie, Brant Skills Centre, Contact North, and many others fill vital roles in research, analysis, programming and skills development to improve workforce readiness and retraining among our population. Many

Chamber members offer leadership development programs and custom designed learning experiences, often as entrepreneurs building their business. Please check out our Membership Directory to learn more about a local entrepreneur who can elevate your business to the next level. If you have a particular skill set to share or are curious about a low-cost learning program, contact the Chamber!

The Chamber’s Education Committee exists to encourage collaboration across the education community and to help ensure that educational growth remains one of BrantfordBrant’s strengths. When business AND education thrive, so does our community. The Grand Valley Educational Society’s early vision helped make all of this possible, and its legacy lives through the many partnerships that continue to grow today.

Greg Evans

Membership Renewals

n Accessibility Solutions

n Angstrom Fiber Brantford Inc.

n Antech Design and Engineering Group

n Beattie Animal Hospital

n Bin There Dump That Brantford

n Brant County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

n Brant Food For Thought

n Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board

n Brant Historical Society

n Brantford Public Library

n Byzantine Homes Inc.

n C. J. Cooper Automotive

n Caliber Target Systems

n CertaPro Painters of the Grand

n Comspec Technical Services Inc

n Copetown Woods Golf Club

n Creek View Acres Nursery & Orchard

n Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre

n Days Inn by Wyndham Brantford

n Desjardins Insurance - Andrew Schwalm, Agent

n Elastochem Specialty Chemicals Inc.

n Elements Casino Brantford (Ontario Gaming West GTA LP)

n Empire Communities - Brantford Communities Ltd.

n Freedom House

n Front-Line Cable & Gas Services Inc.

n GK York Management Services Inc.

n GreenMantra Technologies Ltd.

n Guru Training Centres Canada

n Holistic Healing Arts

n Hunter & Hooton Chartered Professional Accountants

n IBC Computers Brantford Inc.

n Incor Enterprises Inc.

n Krivi Holdings Ltd.

n Krown & Leading Edge Auto Detailing

n Mark’s Work Wearhouse

n Massilly North America Inc.

n Mercasa Little Italy Eatery

n Mike Yarek Dodge Chrysler

n Mitsui High-tec (Canada) Inc.

n mobilemend

n Myra’s Bar & Grill

n Nautalex Business Services Inc.

n Nine North (Viet-Thai Cuisine)

n Ontario Aesthetic Lighting Design

n Photohouse Studio

n Picture Perfect Window Coverings

n Pioneer Family Pools

n Ponder Recruiting Inc.

n Protection Security Investigations

n Rawlings Sporting Goods Co. Inc. Canadian Division

n Rosewood House

n Seventh Coffee Company

n Sherwin Williams-Brantford (8772)

n SOAR Community Services

n Strodes BBQ & Deli - Strodes The Pit

n Total Rentals

n Town & Country Sales and Service Inc.

New Members

n ArcCan Industry

ARCHITECTS

JP Velez (437) 446-8719

Jpvelez@arccanindustry.com

Brantford, ON

n Chander Professional Corporation ACCOUNTANTS

Harvinder Chander (548) 800-0777

Hc@harvcpa.com

Brantford, ON

n Just Like Family Home Care

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES

Ryan Graham (519) 693-6096

Rgraham@justlikefamily.ca

Ayr, ON

n Leschuk Developments

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS

Mike Leschuk (519) 758-6310

Mleschuk@ldev.ca Brantford, ON

n Michael Alonzo Hair Studio HAIRSTYLISTS

Michael Alonzo (519) 758-1348

Michael.alonzo@outlook.com

Brantford, ON

n St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre

Brantford

HEALTH CARE & HOSPITAL CONSULTANTS

Sandra Ramelli (519) 751-7096

Sandra.remelli@sjhcg.ca

Brantford, ON

n Two Row Architect ARCHITECTS

Brian Porter (519) 445-2137

Info@tworow.com

Ohsweken, ON

you refer a business to the Chamber and they join, you get $300 in free advertising!

Greg Evans today! greg@chamberbrantfordbrant.com

From Vision to Vibrancy Cont’d

< Continued from Page 16

As a community, the GVES was awarded Ontario’s June Callwood Award for Outstanding Volunteerism in 2008, and the Order of Wilfrid Laurier University in 2019.

GVES’s work didn’t stop with Laurier. Its efforts assisted Mohawk College and Nipissing University during their time in Brantford, and more recently it has supported a growing ecosystem of educational institutions, including Six Nations Polytechnic and Conestoga College, both award-winning institutions that embody the spirit of the GVES. As Ontario’s top-ranked college by CourseCompare, Conestoga is now partnering with local school boards on initiatives like the CollegeWithin-a-School program, bringing trades-focused programming into Brantford’s classrooms by 2025.

Conestoga also plays a critical role in addressing local labour market needs. Its Food Research & Innovation Lab, skilled trades campus, and programs tailored for women in trades position

Above: Premier Dalton McGuinty presents GVES with the 2008 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism. Refer Your Friends!

it as a key player in Brantford-Brant’s economic development. These initiatives ensure that education is not just theoretical but deeply practical— producing graduates ready to thrive in the region’s evolving industries.

GVES’s story is also one of community spirit. It sourced $2 million in early funding, engaged countless volunteers, and served as a home for the movement—hosted by the Chamber of Commerce in its final years. As GVES concludes its work, a tribute wall and legacy website in 2025 will preserve its impact on the community. From its inception the GVES realized the value of partnerships and alliances that

would result in collaboration, creativity, innovation and a new dimension to the spirit of the Brantford-Brant communities through post-secondary education. With an objective of increasing the intellectual capital of our local workforce, the GVES actively supported opportunities for expanded and integrated post-secondary programming which generated distinct and unique partnerships.

Today, Brantford-Brant is a beacon of educational opportunity, thanks to the power of collaboration. From a one-building university campus to a multi-institutional academic centre, the region proves that with vision and community dedication, transformative change is not only possible—it’s inevitable. One of Colleen’s favourite quotes is: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” (Margaret Mead)

If there ever was a project or initiative that should be benchmarked as setting a new standard for what a community can achieve…the growth of postsecondary education would be it!