June Glance 2026

THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Glance

A Last Message from Jennifer Ludwig

“STILLADVOCATING”

It’shardtobelievethatit’sbeenoneyearsinceI wrote my first article as Chamber President. To say that it has been a whirlwind would be an understatement!Fromstarttofinish,ithasbeen a flurry of activity that not only kept me on my toesbuthadmelearningeverystepoftheway.

AsIsaidinmyfarewellspeech,Iwouldconsider this past year a rebuilding year for the Chamber. June and July were spent looking to fill the position of General Manager. We needed someone who could build a team and take us into the future with strong footing. As you all know, Curtis Hullick was hired, and under his leadershipanewteamwasformed.Combining the talents of Sandra Affun, Mindy Castle, Callie Fowler, Cheryl Racine, and Frederic Ramsay we weresettotackletheyeartocome.

Along with rebuilding the Chamber office team, 2026 was another strategic planning year for the Chamber. During a one-day planning session, the Board of Directors reviewed the changing needs of our membership and considered evolving ways of ensuring Brandon and Westman businesses were at the forefront when advocating for policy change. Through increased engagement with our membership, our goal was simple – what do our members NEEDtosucceedandgrowinoureconomy?

As Brandonites, we all know that Brandon is Manitoba’s second largest city and thus should betreatedwiththerespectitdeserves.Thiswas my guiding principle as I navigated my way through the past year. With a population of over 50,000 people now, Brandon must be considered by our provincial leaders when it comes to the provincial budget and funding of municipalprogramsandinitiatives.

There is no reason why Brandon cannot be considered when there is a need to pilot new programs or ideas. Brandon is Westman’s hub, anditisanimportantoneatthat.

I am very proud of the advocacy that the Brandon Chamber does each and every day. Sometimesitisloudandproudinnewsreleases and interviews, but most of the time it through measured conversations happening one-onone with the right people.The connections and working relationships that the Chamber continues to build, allow for the uncomfortable conversations that must happen as we advocate for our members. It is through these hard conversations, that we begin to see change. As a shining example, the provincial government’s provision of funding to the Brandon Police Service for four new police officer positions and the creation of a public safetyunitcameasadirectresultofhardfacts and data presented at a retail theft working grouphostedbytheChamber.

A Last Message from Jennifer Ludwig

The issues of tariffs and international trade, along with skilled labour and professional shortages were, and continue to be, key issues to our members.Our standing committees spent the last year examining these issues, while engaging with members to find out how their needs may have changed and what should be done to help navigate the unknown. One of my hopes, at the beginning of my term, wastobeabletoannouncethateastboundair service out of Brandon was finally a reality. While I fell short on making this announcement, work continues behind the scenes to increase connectivity to Westman, and when that day comes (and I am confident it will), I will be first inlinetobuymyticket!

Idon’tthinkanyoneactuallytellsyouwhatgoes into being the president of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce Part of it might be because the past presidents don’t want to scare off the newbies But it is also really challenging to put into words There are times where it is ever encompassing and you don’t know how you will ever survive it, but there are alsotimesofjoyandaccomplishment

I will never forget what Lois Ruston told me halfway through my year as we were standing attheChamber’sholidaymixer Shesaid,“make sure you take time to enjoy it and be in the moment” And it is absolutely true It can be so easy to just do it to get through it Thank you, Lois for those words of wisdom, for when else would I have had the opportunity to see Curtis proudly wearing his “First Timer” ribbon at the CanadianChamberConferenceoraccidentally roasting the Premier of Manitoba (oops!) I had alotofgoodbellylaughsthisyear

There are so many people who, without their support, I wouldn’t have made it through my year as Chamber President. Curtis and staff, thankyouforallofyourhardwork.TheChamber doesnot,andcannot,operatewithoutyouatthe helm.TohaveaBoardofDirectorsandExecutive Committee who always had my back and providedmewithsupportwhilestillallowingme to be me was absolutely invaluableAnd finally, to my friends, family, and work family – thank you for your patience, support, and knowing whenIneededthat“crispyDietCoke”

So,withthat,Iendmyyearaspresident Icannot wait to see the exiting things to come under EmelioBrown’sleadership Emelio,Iknowyouwill do great things The Chamber is in excellent hands

To all of our members, I will continue to do my utmost to promote and be an advocate for our Chamber and business community I have always loved Brandon, and there is no better placetocallhome Thankyouforallowingmeto be your president for the 2025-26 year It has beenaprivilegeandhonour

Jennifer Ludwig

A Message from Your New President

“LET’SGETTOWORK!”

As I begin my term as President of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, I find myself reflecting on what makes our business community so special Brandon and Westman have never been communities that wait for opportunity to arrive We are builders, problem-solvers, innovators, and entrepreneurs. We have weathered economic uncertainty, changing markets, labour shortages, and global disruptions. Through it all, our business community has continued to adapt, evolve, and moveforward.Thatresilienceisoneofourgreatest strengths

Atthesametime,theworldarounduscontinuesto change at an incredible pace Technology is reshaping industries Workforce challenges are affecting businesses of every size New opportunities are emerging, and new challenges arepresentingthemselvesjustasquickly.

As I look ahead to the coming year, I believe our role as a Chamber is not simply to react to these changes It is to help our members prepare for them, navigate them, and ultimately benefit from them

My vision for the year ahead is centered around three key priorities: inclusivity, innovation, and workforce development, all supported by a commitment to resilience and adaptability. These priorities are not new challenges. They are opportunities Opportunities to strengthen our business community, broaden participation, and position Brandon and Westman for long-term success

Building a Chamber That Reflects Our Business Community

One of the Chamber's most important responsibilities is advocacy. Whether we are meeting with elected officials, government departments, economic development organizations, or other stakeholders, our role is to bringforwardtheperspectivesofourmembersand helpshapedecisionsthatimpactbusiness

Our understanding of the business landscape is naturally shaped by the voices we hear and the relationships we build. The broader those perspectives,thestrongerouradvocacybecomes.

The Chamber has made significant progress over the years, particularly in increasing the participation and representation of women within the organization That progress should be celebrated At the same time, there is an opportunity to continue expanding our reach and ensuring more businesses see value in being part of the Chamber community. When we bring together a wider range of experiences, industries, and perspectives, we make better decisions. We identify challenges sooner. We uncover opportunities that may otherwise go unnoticed. Most importantly, we create a stronger and more representative voice for business in Westman Inclusivity is not simply about who sits at the table ItisaboutensuringtheChamberremainsrelevant, responsive, and reflective of the business communityitserves

A Message from Your New President

EMBRACINGINNOVATIONASAN ADVANTAGE

If there is one topic dominating conversations across industries today, it is artificial intelligence Some view AI as disruptive Others see it as an opportunity I believe it is both What is becoming increasingly clear is that artificial intelligence is not a future conversation, it is a present-day reality Businesses right here in Brandon and throughout WestmanarealreadyusingAIandotheradvanced tools to improve efficiency, streamline operations, enhance customer service, and unlock new opportunitiesforgrowth.

History has shown us time and again that when major shifts in technology occur, those who embrace change early are often the ones who benefitthemost Ibelievewearelivingthroughone of those moments That does not mean every businessneedstobecomeatechnologycompany. Itdoesmeaneveryorganizationshouldunderstand how these tools can support its goals and improve itsoperations.

As a Chamber, we have an opportunity to help our members navigate this evolving landscape Through education, workshops, resources, and conversations,wecanhelpreducetheintimidation surrounding AI and promote practical, responsible adoption. Innovation has always been a driver of economic growth. By embracing it, we can help ensure Brandon and Westman remain competitive, adaptable,andpreparedforthefuture.

DEVELOPINGTHEWORKFORCEOFTOMORROW

No economy can grow without people Access to skilled,work-readytalentcontinuestobeoneofthe most significant challenges facing employers acrossmanysectors Addressingthatchallengewill require collaboration, advocacy, and long-term thinking. The Chamber already enjoys strong relationships with our school divisions, Assiniboine College,andBrandonUniversity.Thesepartnerships provide a strong foundation, and we will continue buildinguponthemintheyearsahead

By strengthening

connections between education

and industry, we can help ensure students understand the opportunities available in our region and employers have access to the talent they need to grow Workforce development also means having meaningful conversations with government about policies that hinder workforce growth and talent development Where barriers exist, we must advocateforpracticalsolutionsthathelpbusinesses accessthepeopleandskillstheyneed.

Immigration will also continue to be part of that conversation As someone who immigrated to Canada, I understand firsthand the opportunities that immigration can create, not only for individuals, but for communities and local economies When we attract skilled, motivated people who are ready to contribute, we strengthen our workforce, support local businesses, and help build a more prosperous futureforeveryone.

REMAININGREADYFORWHATEVERCOMESNEXT

If recent years have taught us anything, it is that change is inevitable While we cannot predict every challenge ahead, we can ensure that our Chamber remains responsive, adaptable, and prepared to support our members through changing circumstances

ANEXCITINGFUTUREAHEAD

I am incredibly optimistic about the future of our region. We are home to innovative entrepreneurs, growing industries, strong educational institutions, and a business community that consistently demonstrates resilience and determination The opportunities before us are significant Over the comingyear,Ilookforwardtolistening,learning,and working alongside our members as we continue building a business environment that is inclusive, innovative,andpreparedforthefuture.

Emelio Brown

JUNE LUNCHEON

CHANGEOVER CEREMONY

EVENTRECAP

CHAMBERCHANGEOVERLOOKSAHEAD

OnJune11th,theBrandonChamberofCommerce welcomed business and community leaders to the Clarion Hotel & Suites for our annual June Changeover Luncheon. Featuring the incoming 2026-27 Board of Directors and incoming Chamber President Emelio Brown. The event markedanopportunitytoreflectonthepastyear, welcome new leadership, and look ahead to the prioritiesshapingBrandon’sbusinesscommunity.

AVISIONFORCONNECTIONANDMOMENTUM

During his address, Emelio spoke about the Chamber’s role in bringing people, ideas, and perspectivestogethertostrengthenBrandonand the Westman region. He highlighted the importance of collaboration, inclusion, and supporting a business community that is forward-thinking, adaptable, and ready for the future.

The luncheon also recognized outgoing president Jennifer Ludwig for her leadership, service, and contributions throughout the past year, and her continued commitment to Brandon’s businesscommunity.

THANKYOUTOOURSPONSORS

A sincere thank-you to our host sponsor, Centum Mortgage Choice, and booth sponsors IntriTech Marketing, Chambers Plan through SV Benefits, and Alternative Groupfortheirsupport.

We also thank Keywest Photo Image by Design for photography, Look Music for audiovisual support, and the Clarion Hotel & Suites for hosting the event and providinganexcellentmeal.

LUNCHEON RECAP

2025–2026LUNCHEONSERIESRECAP

What a year! Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, members, and the broader business community for showing up, connecting, and helping make this luncheon series such a success.Wearesogratefulforyoursupportandlookforward toanothergreatyearahead!

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Thank you to all our valued members for your continued support throughout the 2025–2026 Chamber year. This past year has brought strong momentum for the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and our local business community. With a new team in place, we have been focused on building stronger member relationships, creating valuable connection points, and continuing to serve as the voice for Brandon’sbusinesscommunity

Asweprepareforthe2026–2027Chamberyear,membershiprenewalinvoiceshave been sent by email beginning June 1. Please check your inbox and take a few momentstoreviewyourrenewalinformation.

Your continued membership helps support the work of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, including advocacy, events, networking opportunities, business connections, member visibility, and initiatives that contribute to the strength and vitalityofourlocalbusinesscommunity.

YourMembershipRenewalChecklist:

Membershipfeesarepaid

Primaryandbillingcontactsareuptodate

Physicalandmailingaddressesareuptodate

Yournumberofstaffisstillwithinyourmembershiprange

If your business has experienced changes this year, or if you’d like to learn more abouthowtomakethemostofyourmembership,pleasereachoutto FrédéricRamsay,MemberRelationsCoordinator.

Let’shaveanothergreatyeartogether!

GOLF TOURNAMENT

CELEBRATINGAGREATDAYONTHECOURSE

The Chamber was pleased to wrap up the 2025–26eventseasonwithour36thAnnual Chamber Golf Tournament at Wheat City Golf Course. This signature event brought members and community partners together for a full day of connection, friendlycompetition,andfunonthecourse. Golfersenjoyedfoodanddrinksthroughout the day, engaging activations at every hole, two exciting hole-in-one contests, and friendly competition through challenges like closest to the pin and longestdrive Theenergyacrossthecourse made for a memorable day and a great waytocloseoutanothersuccessfulyearof Chamberevents

THANKYOU,GOLFERS&VOLUNTEERS

A sincere thank-you to all of the golfers who joined us and helped make the tournament such a success. Your enthusiasm, participation, and continued support are what make Chamber events such a meaningful part of Brandon’s businesscommunity.

We also extend our appreciation to the volunteers who contributed their time and effort throughout the tournament. Your support helped keep the day running smoothly and created a welcoming experienceforeveryoneinvolved.

SPECIALTHANKSTOOURSPONSORS

Wearegratefultoallofthesponsorswho madethisyear’stournamentpossible ThankyoutoourTitleSponsor,CPHR Manitoba,andtoourPuttingGreen Sponsor,LivingstoneOutdoor& LivingstoneLandscapingLtd.

WealsothankourHoleSponsorsGambler FirstNation,FalconFuels,PolarOils,Leech Group,WesternFinancialGroup,Workers CompensationBoardofManitoba, UniversalDoor&TruckAccessories,St.John AmbulanceBrandon,AlternativeGroup, CorralCommunications,Westman CommunicationsGroup,McMunn&Yates BuildingSupplies,Hunt&AssociatesPrivate WealthManagement,HeritageCo-op,TBirdsFoodFunGames,LocalHandyman, SaskTelNational,DenrayTire,and AssiniboineCreditUnion.

ThankyoutoourHole-in-OneSponsors

ArcticSpasBrandonandHunt&Associates PrivateWealthManagement

ThankyouaswelltoourFlightSponsors: BurnsMaendelConsultingEngineersLtd., GuildInsuranceGroup,KK PennerTire Centers,KochFertilizer,LakeviewHotels& Resorts,SuperThriftyDrugsCanadaLtd., andTommyGun’sOriginalBarbershop.

AswemoveintoJulyandAugust,the Chamberwillbefocusedonplanningthe 2026–27eventseason Welookforwardto announcingtheupcominglineupshortly!

2026-2027 Events Lineup

With the 2025–26 event season now officially wrapped up, the Chamber is turning its focus to the planning phase over the summer months. July and August will be dedicated to building another strong calendar of opportunities for our members to connect,learn,celebrate,andengagewithBrandon’sbusinesscommunity.

Welookforwardtosharingoureventlineupshortly,sostaytunedforwhat’sahead!

ThankYou2025-2026Board

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our 202526 Board for their incredible dedication, leadership, and service Their commitment has helped guide the success of our Chamber and strengthen the business community we are proudtoserve

WeareespeciallygratefultoPastPresident Lois Ruston, Executive Director of YWCA Westman, as she concludes her time on the board Loishasbroughtmorethantwodecades ofleadershipexperienceacrossBrandon’snonprofit and private sectors, along with a deep commitment to community development, advocacy,andservice Herthoughtfulguidance, steady leadership, and passion for building strongbusinessesandorganizationshavelefta lasting impact on the Chamber and our community

We also thank Board Director Charles Tweed, ownerofTweediaSocialMediaAgency

Charles brought a strong voice for local business and community connection to the table With his background in media, digital marketing, and volunteer leadership, Charles has offered valuable perspective and energy in supportoftheChamber’smission

Thank you both for your time, dedication, and invaluablecontributions Yourservicehasmade ameaningfuldifference,andyouwillbegreatly missed.

FROMTHECHAMBER

ThankyoutoLoisRustonandCharlesTweedfor yourdedicationandleadershipduringyourtime withtheChamber.Yourhardwork,insight,and unwaveringsupportforourbusinesscommunity madealastingdifference.

TheChamberwilldeeplymissyoursteady presenceandtheimpactyou'vehadonour organization.

2026-2027 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Emelio Bro

PresidenIntritech Marke

Brent Miller

Director Victoria Inn

Emmy Sanderson

DirectorBrandon Downtown Biz

Chris Finley

Vice-President Mazergroup

Karin Griffin DirectorAlternative Group

BDO Canada LLP Secretary-Treasurer

Amber White

Anytime Fitness

Naidoo DirectorWestman Immigrant Services

BoardofDirectors

EMELIOBROWN |PRESIDENT INTRITECHMARKETING

CHRISFINLEY|VICE-PRESIDENT MAZERGROUP

LISAANDREW|SECRETARYTREASURER

BDOCANADALLP

JENNIFERLUDWIG|PASTPRESIDENT SUPERTHRIFTYDRUGSCANADALTD

ROSAVILLAMIZAR U-BUILDSTEELBUILDINGS& BEHLENINDUSTRIESLP

MATTBERG LIVINGSTONEOUTDOOR& LIVINGSTONELANDSCAPINGLTD.

BRENTMILLER VICTORIAINN

KARINGRIFFIN ALTERNATIVEGROUP

ROBSTARKELL WEST-CANHRSOLUTIONS

AMBERWHITE ANYTIMEFITNESS

RHEAMAJEWSKI DONALD&KEHLERLAW OFFICE

ENVERNAIDOO WESTMANIMMIGRANT SERVICES

LYNDSAYSEAFOOT CURBIRDGE

EMMYSANDERSON BRANDONDOWNTOWNBIZ

ChamberStaff

CURTISHULLICK GENERALMANAGER

FRÉDÉRICRAMSAY

MEMBERRELATIONSCOORDINATOR

SANDRAAFFUN EVENTSCOORDINATOR

MINDYCASTLE OFFICECOORDINATOR

CALLIEFOWLER MARKETINGASSISTANT

WeacknowledgethatBrandonislocatedonTreaty2territory,traditionallandsoftheCree, Oji-Cree,Dakota,Anishinaabe/Ojibwepeoples,andthehomelandoftheRedRiverMétis Nation Wehonorthehistories,cultures,andcontributionsofIndigenouspeoplestoour community

SETTING THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883

TheBrandonChamberofCommerceisanindependent, membershipfunded,non-profitorganizationthatrepresents Brandonbusinessfromthegrassrootslevel

OurmissionistoencouragegrowthintheBrandoncommunityby fosteringaprogressivebusinessenvironment,favourableto enhancingexistingandattractingnewbusiness.