Westman Business | 2025

2025 Special Supplement

2025 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

Westman

Business OCTOBER 25, 2025

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

We make it our business to understand yours .

Morgan Ashcroft Ag/Commercial Relationship Manager

Cody Powell , ABL Ag/Commercial Relationship Manager

Laura Brownlee Ag/Commercial Relationship Manager

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OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

Rooted in Community: How Fusion Credit Union is Powering Local Progress

I n an era where big banks often dominate the financial landscape, Fusion Credit Union continues to prove that being local makes all the difference.

Fueling Local Dreams with Grant Programs

More than just a place to bank, this hometown credit union has become a cornerstone of community investment, economic development, and local pride. For more than seven years, Fusion has served the people of southwestern Man- itoba and the Parkland. And in that time its mission has remained clear: to put people before profits. This philosophy extends far beyond of- fering fair loans and savings accounts — it’s about actively reinvesting in the place they call home.

“Our members’ success is our suc- cess,” says Michelle Mazurkewich, Chief Strategy & Governance Officer at Fusion. “Whether it’s a non-profit try- ing to expand its outreach or a school in need of updated inclusive playground equipment, we’re here to help bridge the gap.” Small Business Support That Matters Fusion also understands that thriving small businesses are the lifeblood of any town. That’s why Fusion has made tailored support for business owners a top priority. Through accessible financing, busi- ness development resources, and one- on-one financial guidance, they’ve helped launch and sustain countless local ventures—from family-run cafés and hardware stores to tech start-ups and solo practitioners. Additionally, in 2021 Fusion launched Community Infusion, an entrepre- neurial program that promotes eco- nomic growth and job creation in their local communities. Since starting the Community Infu- sion program, Fusion has awarded over $120,000 to entrepreneurs and busi- ness in our communities. “We don’t just evaluate a business on paper,” says Brett Norrie, Director of Lending Solutions at Fusion, “We take the time to understand the people and passion behind it. That’s what makes the difference.” Investing in the Community Spirit Beyond business and banking, Fusion is an active presence at the heart of community life. From sponsoring lo- cal festivals and youth sports leagues to hosting financial literacy workshops and their scholarship program, they show up—not just with cheques, but with heart.

At the heart of their community work is the Full Circle Fund launched in 2019 to support initiatives that bring posi- tive, lasting change to their communi- ties. From funding youth programs and event structures to assisting volunteer fire departments and school enrichment activities, the grant program has already awarded over $1 million to more than 180 local organizations.

Brandon Branch staff participate in Jeans Day monthly to raise funds for local non-profit organizations and national charities. (Submitted)

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

Looking Ahead, Staying Local As Fusion continues to grow and evolve, the organization remains deeply com- mitted to its founding mission: To sup- port members with financial guidance, community investment and member-fo- cused innovation. In a time when many institutions are moving toward digital-only services and distant decision-making, Fusion Credit Union is doubling down on being local, listening, and leading with purpose. Because here in Manitoba, it’s not just about money—it’s about making a mean- ingful difference. And thanks to Fusion, that difference can be felt in every corner of the community. 

In 2025 to date, Fusion has donated over $217,000 to community programs, awarded $18,500 in scholarship funding for graduating students, and sponsored major events like the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, Brandon Police Services Polar Plunge for Special Olympics, Unit- ed Way fundraising events, wildfire evac- uee fundraisers, the Salamander Music Festival, and Ag Days to name a few here in Brandon. Their staff regularly volunteer their time, underscoring a culture of service that ex- tends well beyond the Fusion branches. “Being part of a community means showing up for it—in big and small ways,” says Mike Csversko, Brand & Busi- ness Development Manager at Fusion. “We want people to see us not just as a financial organization, but as neighbors who care.”

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OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

Trade uncertainty characterizes business in 2025

Barry LaRocque, owner of Atom-Jet Group, inside the machine shop on Park Avenue. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

“You could definitely see the stress on the businesses,” she said. “That’s where we learned that it was the uncertainty more so that was causing the issues, ver- sus just the tariffs themselves. “Very hard to plan in a business when you don’t know what the next day will bring.” Not knowing what will come the next day makes businesses wary about taking a risk they otherwise would have, Ludwig said, such as expanding or trying new products. Certain sectors were hit with tariffs harder than others. American steel and aluminum tariffs sat at 50 per cent as of Oct. 7, and Chinese canola tariffs at 75.8 per cent. Those tariffs have affected the bot- tom-line, said Atom-Jet Group Owner and President Barry LaRocque. “We take a hit ourselves on the chin, and then we … take a little from our deal- er, and then ultimately there’s a little bit that comes off against our end users,” La- Rocque said. Most of the hit goes against Atom-Jet, he said, and that it’s a lot of cutting mar- gins. However, the tariffs didn’t hit as hard as the company was bracing for, La- Rocque said, and so the losses weren’t as bad as they could have been.

“We kind of prepared for the worst,” he said. “There’s no saving grace other than if you think about what’s going to hap- pen, or if it happens, everybody’s going to be in the same boat. “I think people are at a point now they’re saying, ‘OK, well, we’ve got to move ahead anyway.’” In the ag sector, high Chinese tariffs on canola haven’t had as much of an impact as people might think, said Delaney Ross Burtnack, executive director of the Mani- toba Canola Growers. Questions had already been circulat- ing for farmers before tariffs were put in place, though this made the situation even worse. “Just the uncertainty of the market, added stress where farmers don’t need more stress — it is already a challenge as a small business,” she said. “Depend- ing on the weather, depending on good prices that they have little control over. “The industry itself already has enough challenges without farmers not knowing whether they’re going to be able to sell their crop and at what price.” Selling crops is a bit of a challenge with marketing, and having a market that’s virtually shut down makes that a bigger challenge.

Threats and certain action on across- the-board tariffs from the United States starting in January, and high canola tar- iffs from China as well, the game plan has been ever-changing. “We started the year with the an- nouncement of tariffs, then counter tariffs, and then more tariffs,” said Jen- nifer Ludwig, president of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. “It’s unfortu- nate, because that really is out of a busi- ness’s control.” A round-table held by the Chamber when tariffs first came into play illustrat- ed the concern people had.

BY ALEX LAMBERT U ncertainty is the word of the year for Westman businesses and organizations, with tariffs and American politics causing stress in 2025.

You could definitely see the stress on the businesses. That’s where we learned that it was the uncertainty more so that was causing the issues, versus just the tariffs themselves.”

– GERALD CATHCART CITY OF BRANDON’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

However, there are new opportunities for growers in the biofuel market, for which Burtnack is hopeful. The closed off market across the Pacific Ocean hasn’t made the year a full-on loss for farmers, she said, it just makes it more difficult. It’s not just business owners and deci- sion makers feeling the brunt of decisions being made by foreign governments, says the City of Brandon’s economic develop- ment officer, Gerald Cathcart. “All of this uncertainty trickles down, not only from the owners and managers of businesses, but to their employees, their staff … and the employees’ fami- lies,” Cathcart said. “And it adds that to the price of a lot of goods and services that we purchase. “We’ve seen increased costs and infla- tion on food and other manufacturing goods that’s attributable to tariffs.” Despite that, Cathcart said the city is seeing a rise in new business permits, and capital investment is strong across the Wheat City. “Certainly, capital investment has been strong. There’s further building going on, a lot of capital being invested both by lo- cal companies and companies with head offices outside of Manitoba (and) outside of Canada in some cases,” Cathcart said.

What you’re doing right now is you’re trying to make sure that you’re not reliant only on that U.S. business model, because it’s a little bit more volatile than it had been in the past.” – CHUCK DAVIDSON, PRESIDENT AND CEO MANITOBA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Erinio Tabirara with Atom-Jet Group works at a CNC machine making parts for a customer inside the machine shop on Park Avenue. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

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OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

That investment means the city will need to keep growing. Cathcart attribut- ed much of the growth to immigration programs Brandon remains a part of, where skilled workers come to work for companies. Numbers provided by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Chuck Davidson show a sharp drop in trade with the Americans between the start of tariffs, and in May. About 68 per cent of international trade was done between Manitoban businesses and their southern neigh- bours in May, compared to about 73 per cent a few months earlier. The 73 per cent figure equated to about $18 billion in exporting to the U.S. and $22 billion in importing. “That’s significant dollars. What we’ve been able to make it up with is we’ve also seen an increase in terms of market value outside of Canada, but it’s not equal dollar to dollar, but we’re see- ing that there’s opportunities there,” Davidson said. Looking forward to next year, busi- nesses will have to lessen their need to sell and supply product from Canada’s next-door neighbour, he said. Affected businesses had already start- ed shifting to other markets earlier this year, Davidson said, noting they don’t become available immediately.

“It’s not as simple as just finding new markets overnight — it takes time. So, they’ve explored some of that in terms of looking at other markets, whether it’s the EU, they’ve also started to recognize that there might be more trade opportu- nities even within Canada.” Part of that is building relationships with those new international markets. “If you’ve had long standing relation- ships south of the border, in some cases those are going to continue,” Davidson said. “But what you’re doing right now is you’re trying to make sure that you’re not reliant only on that U.S. business model, because it’s a little bit more volatile than it had been in the past.” Organizations and businesses say they’re optimistic for the future, and that, hopefully, their efforts of lobbying and trade talks from governments in Ot- tawa, Manitoba and the local level will help when it comes to both US tarriffs and those from China. “Optimism says that the lobbying is going to be effective in China,” said Burtnack. “That the U.S. is going to be consistent and that we’re going to have a trade agreement in place that is predict- able and reliable and respected. “There’s a lot of work to do to get to that vision of all of the canola market stars aligning, but we’re working hard on it, and there’s been a lot of progress.” 

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

Critical Care building requires a Foundation of support

Above: An artist’s rendering of the new Critical Care building at Brandon Regional Health Centre. Below: Jessica Saler, Communications and Development Coordinator, Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation. (Submitted)

That’s the goal for the Brandon Re- gional Health Centre Foundation’s capital campaign called “A Foundation for Care.” “When we launched in June of 2024, the goal was $2,000,000 and this past spring we increased that goal to $4,000,000. So where we were at 50 per cent of the way, we’re now at 25 per cent of the way,” said Jessica Saler, communications and devel- opment coordinator at the Brandon Re- gional Health Centre Foundation. The amount to be fundraised is deter- mined from what is called a “community contribution.” “When there’s a large project and the government is funding the majority of it - in this case it’s the hospital expan- sion - there’s a certain amount of money required to come from the community,” she said. Funds from the campaign will go to- ward construction of the Critical Care building and equipment. Plans include a new and expanded ICU unit increas- ing from 10 beds to 16 beds. The current ICU is a shared space with only a few feet between each of the beds. The new unit will provide private rooms for every single ICU patient. “Patients will have their own individual rooms with space for visitors and medical equipment and family members won’t have to leave during rounds due to pri- vacy concerns,” she said.

Another part of the Critical Care building project is an outdoor court- yard for patients and their families. The outdoor space will provide some respite from the stress of being in hospital, and enhance the overall patient experience as they recover. A key benefit of the new building is the drastic reduction in patient transfers to other facilities. “This reduces the burden of trav- el to receive critical care and it keeps patients near their families and their support networks,” Saler said. “And we know studies have shown this improves patient outcomes.” Staff will also benefit. The new set- ting will allow them to dedicate their time and attention to the direct care of patients rather than administration of patient transfer. “We’re reducing those challenges. And the new facility will have a long term im- pact on staffing, helping to improve both retention and recruitment initiatives.” To help showcase these endeavours, the BRHC Foundation has completed an im- portant communications project with the launch of a video on both their homepage and the capital campaign page. “It illustrates what the old ICU looks like and what the new ICU unit is going to look like,” Saler said. “You’ll also hear from the physicians and the ICU manager about why this is so important. It really helps people to learn more and to get that visual to see and un- derstand why we need this new space.” A visit to the website will provide basic information to donors. Donors are also welcome to come to the office in person to ask questions and obtain details. It is possible to donate over the phone and through the website directly. “We also have naming rights oppor- tunities for those who want to make a

larger donation. There are great ways to leave a meaningful legacy within this new space and to show your support and commitment. “You can be confident in knowing where your money is going.” Annual fundraising events hosted by the BRHC Foundation like the Annual Gala Dinner, the Under the Tree of Life Campaign, and the Annual Holiday Pan- cake Breakfast all help to move the cam- paign towards its goal. Information about events are on the website as well as in the regular newsletter. But Saler says even bigger news is coming up. “I think people have been waiting a re- ally long time to see this and we’re really excited to be able to bring it now as we’re going to do a region wide, public 50/50 with the proceeds going to the capital campaign,” Saler said. Tickets go on sale on Oct. 14 with the first draw on Jan. 9, 2026. “Tickets are a great Christmas gift, es- pecially when the pot starts at $2000 right off the bat!” she said. With so many ways to contribute, there’s an opportunity for everyone to become a donor and help to make a meaningful dif- ference to the community. “You never know what the day is going to bring for you or a loved one. And if your day brings you to critical care, you want to know you have the best space and equip- ment available so our staff can provide the best care possible,” Saler said. “At the Brandon Regional Health Cen- tre Foundation, we need and welcome all the help we can get to bring that dream to life.” Reach out to the Brandon Region- al Health Centre Foundation office at info@brhcfoundation.ca or call: 204-578-4227. 

BY WENDY KING C apacity for care in a hospital setting is often referred to as the “number of beds.” But capacity for care is more than a bed. It’s about ensuring that each patient receives the individualized medical care they need in a dignified, comfortable setting.

The second floor will provide 30 higher-acuity medical beds which will include showers and washrooms. Modern state-of-the-art equipment and technology will en- hance treatment. “High-acuity patients still need specialized critical care.

The new rooms will be better equipped to manage those complex cases that require really close monitoring,” she said.

OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

JOIN OUR REGION-WIDE 50/50! Proceeds support the new Critical Care Centre currently underway.

1 ticket for $5 3 tickets for $10 10 tickets for $20 50 tickets for $50

Draw date January 9, 2026

Buy your tickets at www.brhcfoundation.ca or scan the QR code to grab your tickets today!

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

Come Home to Christmas AT THE GREEN SPOT HOME & GARDEN

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OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

The Green Spot: Where Santa, Sommeliers & Snow Shovels Meet

Bernie Whetter, owner of The Green Spot, and his dog Soffie, relax in a Christmas themed area of the home and garden store in Brandon. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

And what would the season be with- out a little green for your holiday decor? The Green Spot is offering workshops where participants can learn to make a wreath, a centrepiece for the table, de- cor for the mantel, or a swag. Families and others such as workplace groups can also book private workshops. “It’s a fun alternative to a Christmas party and you can go home with some- thing you can enjoy for the rest of the season,” says Whetter. But if a Christmas party is definite- ly on your wish list, you can book the greenhouse as a venue space with ta- bles and chairs provided. “The greenhouse location is really something different,” says Whetter. “Depending on the weather outside it can be a little chilly in the greenhouse so we suggest you dress in layers ... but if you work up a sweat on the dance floor, you can feel free to peel some clothes off!” Make some joyful memories with a classic photo with Santa by Cynthia Kor- man. The elf himself will be visiting Nov. 1 and 2, and Dec. 6 and 14.

Something new is brewing for your sweet tooth at The Green Spot. “We’re excited to announce that we are going to work in our professional kitchen at Fox Hill Café at Clear Lake and we’ll be making and introducing our own signa- ture fudge!” he says.

“The kids are so excited about seeing Santa and he’s excellent with them ... and the pets, and grandma, and grandpa, and whoever wants to join in.” The Nov. 15 Wine Sale will lend a little fes- tive “spirit” to your Christmas table. “This will be the third one with De Nardi’s out of Winnipeg. They come out with wines from around the world and we’ll bring in

“We change the store over to a new and festive look on the first of November and we bring in all new Christmas merchan- dise, setting the stage for all the other ac- tivities and cheer that we’re bringing in for the season,” says Bernie Whetter, owner of The Green Spot Home and Garden. and his staff of elves will soon be ‘clearing the stalls and decking the halls’ with all kinds of Christmas and seasonal offerings. BY WENDY KING T heir moniker might be “leafy green” but The Green Spot is taking on a cheery shot of Christmas red as 2025 enters its last few months. Bernie Whetter

some food vendors as well,” he says. “Two som- meliers will be on hand to oversee the proceedings with bottles ranging from entry level pricing at $20 up to $120 a bottle.” The wine sale is also offering a free wine tast- ing, and will be bringing back its “choose your own adventure” wine six-pack and gift bag for $80. “People really enjoy be- ing able to sample before they purchase and it’s just a really nice occasion with great people,” Whet- ter said.

We change the store over to a new and festive look on the first of November and we bring in all new Christmas merchandise, setting the stage for all the other activities and cheer that we’re bringing in for the season.” – BERNIE WHETTER

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

“We’ll be marketing it at The Green Spot and several other locations closer to Christmas.” A little music brings a lot of cheer to the atmosphere and there will be some opportunities to tap your frozen toes this season with “Tuba Christmas” on Dec. 6, which is organized by Brandon University. “If you’ve never heard 20 or 30 tubas and euphoniums all playing Christmas carols at the same time, it’s a really lovely low, mellow sound and you can join in for a sing-along,” he says. Even more music will be in the air on Dec. 13. “The Crocus Plains Music Depart- ment comes to be with us with their singers and musicians and they’ll do about a two-hour performance all for free,” says Whetter. “It’s just a nice opportunity for them to come in and entertain their parents and their friends. We’re just so happy to have these folks come through our doors.” If you’re more of a bookworm than a music lover, The Green Spot has an activ- ity for you, too. The newly created Leaves and Literature Book Club — operated out of the Secret Garden Cafe — will meet twice a month. Those interested are invit- ed to check out The Green Spot Facebook page for details. Got a snow-covered sidewalk or drive- way? The Green Spot can clear it. The staff

can help book over the phone and esti- mates are based on lot size. The Christmas holidays are a time to give ... and give back. The Green Spot can make arrangements for poinsettia sales for group fundraisers. “We’ve added gift cards as well. Groups purchase cards at a reduced rate and then sell them for the full value. It’s been very successful because the cards can be used anytime and they never lose their value,” he says. And finally, The Green Spot will be do- ing one more makers’ market this year. “We call it The Last Chance Market on Dec. 20 with over 40 vendors. It’s kind of saying to everybody: OK, this is it! Christ- mas is in a few days. This is the last time you’ll be able to see these vendors.” “We get a tremendous response from the artisans and from customers. These are great Christmas presents, beautifully handmade. They’re fun, they’re creative with everything from game boards to winter coats and pottery and jewelry and soap and small pieces of furniture.” “It’s a very merry event.” See The Green Spot’s Facebook page for updates and details on dates and times for all events. For bookings on workshops etc. reach out directly at 204-727-5884 or info@greenspotbrandon.com. Find more at greenspotbrandon.ca 

Christmas trees often sell out fast at The Green Spot in Brandon. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun).

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OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

The rise of AI: jobs that will ALWAYS be in demand A s artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, more and more concerns arise about

Academia Academic roles such as teachers, in- structors, researchers and historians are foundational to society. Although AI can process data and assist in re- search, the nuanced understanding and mentorship provided by educators cannot be replaced.

Health care The ethical decision-making and hu- man compassion required in health- care settings can only come from trained professionals like nurses, doc- tors, therapists, counsellors, midwives and paramedics. Trades Skilled trades, including electricians, roofers, construction workers, archi- tects and mechanics, require hands-on expertise. Physical skill, creativity and onsite problem-solving are crucial to ensuring quality and safety. Public safety Jobs like police officers and firefight- ers involve high-stakes decision-mak- ing and the ability to use discretion in unpredictable situations. These pro- fessions require quick thinking, em- pathy and a deep understanding of human behaviour.

Arts Creativity is a distinctly human trait, and people who work in the arts, such as musicians and dancers, are secure from AI takeover. Personal services Fields such as hairdressing, tattoo art- istry, personal training and cosmetol- ogy rely heavily on interpersonal in- teractions. AI can’t replace the artistic discernment and personal touch of- fered by these skilled professionals. Law The legal profession hinges on ethics and accountability. When it comes to jobs like judges and lawyers, the ability to navigate nuanced cases re- quires a human touch that AI simply cannot provide. Although AI technology will undoubt- edly change the landscape of many in- dustries, these professions highlight the enduring value of human skills. 

job displacement. However, various jobs require uniquely human skills that AI can’t replicate. Here’s a closer look at some of these essential careers.

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OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

Buying local is good for ME!

Y ou’ve probably heard that buying local boosts your economy and helps lower your carbon footprint. For those reasons alone, it’s no surprise that this practice is gaining popularity. If you need more convincing, consider the personal benefits of shopping locally. Guaranteed freshness When you buy baked goods, meat, cheese and vegetables directly from local producers or farmers’ mar- kets, you get the freshest and most flavourful products possible. Ad- ditionally, local products found at grocery stores have travelled much shorter distances, which means they tend to be fresher than import- ed goods. Better quality Canada has strict production stan- dards. This means that the prod- ucts you buy locally, whether food, clothing or personal care items, are often safer and more sustain-

able than many imported options. Although some local items may come with a higher price tag, their quality can save you money in the long run. Improved well-being Shopping local allows you to enjoy personalized service and connect with your community. This fosters a sense of belonging and safety. Plus, shopping locally can save you time and reduce stress, improving your overall well-being. Increased diversity Choosing to shop locally means helping your community thrive. A vibrant local economy attracts new businesses, giving you more op- tions and helping preserve your ar- ea’s unique stores and offerings. 

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

Sunrise Credit Union: Financing Support for Manitoba Entrepreneurs

Brandon-based Sunrise Credit Union commercial loans officer Devin Moore says a line of credit can offer customers a financial cushion when cash flow isn’t optimal. (© 2023 Ashleigh Hamm Photography, all rights reserved)

“At Sunrise, we can look after anything and everything, from small businesses to large,” said Devin Moore, a commercial loans officer at Sunrise Credit Union. Sunrise offers small businesses loans, mortgages, and lines of credit - options that are vital to help grow a thriving small business economy throughout Manitoba. “The loans can be for equipment. The mortgages are for real property business space or office space, and lines of credit can assist with cash flow such as working capital, payroll and so on,” he said. Moore explains that each of these fi- nancing options offers different benefits. For example, equipment financing to ob- tain equipment or machinery needed for operation can assist a business to get up and running. Mortgages give a business the opportunity to actually own the prop- erty on which they operate. “I would say the majority of our mem- bers are striving towards that goal,” Moore said. “We also do construction financing for office space or business property al- though with construction financing, it’s a little more in-depth, with policies and procedures we must abide by.” A line of credit can act like a financial cushion, providing temporary assistance when cash flow isn’t optimal.

Moore says that mortgaged proper- ty with equity can help to secure other assets like equipment, a competitive ad- vantage at Sunrise. To be eligible for the Canada Small Business Financing, a business’s reve- nues must not exceed $10 million. “It does encompass a lot of borrowers. You have to be in business in Canada, and you cannot be a holding company or a trust. It has to be an active business where you’re borrowing for that compa- ny for the sake of running the business,” Moore said. Eligible businesses could see up to a maximum of $1,000,000 for any one borrower, with a maximum of $500,000 used for purchasing leasehold improve- ments, improving the leased property and purchasing or improving new or used equipment. Moore encourages en- trepreneurs considering the program to take time to do some research as there is good information online. “With the Canada Small Business Fi- nancing Program, you need a thorough business plan with some backing behind it. But really, anyone can apply,” he said. Once you are ready to move for- ward, it’s time to reach out to Sunrise Credit Union.

“A line of credit can alleviate some stress due to cash flow. If you’re dealing with accounts receivable, sometimes re- ceiving payments from clients or vendors isn’t as quick as you’d like and maybe a line of credit is needed to get your busi- ness through your week or your month, or your busy season.” That said, Sunrise Credit Union works to ensure that financing is well-secured to protect all its members. “We want to have tangible asset securi- ty. We want to be fully or partially secured for our files and that leads us right into the Canadian Small Business Financing Program designed to make it easier for small businesses to get loans,” he says. “It’s a very important option for busi- ness lending that is government-backed. It allows you to need a little less for a down payment when we do straight con- ventional mortgage financing at Sunrise.” Moore explained that required down payments could be as high as 30 per cent, which might be out of reach for many businesses. “Canada Small Business Financing is a government guaranteed program that al- lows you to put as little as zero per cent down - although we do like to see at least 10 per cent down,” he said.

BY WENDY KING I f you’re looking to start a small business, or if your business is already established and it needs financing to take it to the next level, Sunrise Credit Union can help you get the leverage you need to reach that goal.

OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

“We take appointments regularly to explore this option,” he said. “What makes Sunrise unique is the way it connects with our members for fi- nancing and in the broader commu- nity is that we try to meet members where they’re at and how they want to be serviced.” Moore points out that not all mem- bers keep the same office hours, so Sunrise advisers are flexible. “We may need to meet after hours or set something up via phone, e-mail, or text, whatever suits the member the best. We’re here to help,” he said. “They’ve got multiple ways of connect- ing with us.” Meeting members where they are is just one way Sunrise Credit Union staff are present in the community.

“We’re giving back regularly through donations and volunteer time. You will see Sunrise staff at the ball diamonds and the ice rinks, at farmers markets and any one of many events in our lo- cal community. “We’re often working at them and volunteering on site because they’re our communities as well. We live and work in the community we serve.” Reach out for more information or to make an appointment with a Sunrise Credit Union financial ad- viser at: info@sunrisecu.mb.ca or call Mon-Fri from 9am to 5pm at 1-888-289-3097. 

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What makes Sunrise unique is the way it connects with our members for financing and in the broader community is that we try to meet members where they’re at and how they want to be serviced.”

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

18 Princess Dental offers quality care and a comfortable experience

“As dental technology advances, it is more patient-friendly and shortens treat- ment times,” said Dr. Nathan Vercaigne, a practising dentist at Princess Dental. Princess Dental offers a full suite of treatments and care. Staffed with five dentists, eight hygienists, seven dental assistants and a full administrative team, appointments are prompt. “We can book the whole family in for one preventative visit,” Vercaigne said. “Entire families come to see us for the continuity of treatment and they can re- quest the same dentist, but no matter who you’re seeing, rest assured the den- tists always have consistency as it per- tains to treatment planning.” The clinic gets kids off to a good start as early as six months of age and sees pa- tients right through their senior years. “If the kiddoes are a little nervous and they need a sedation option we can offer nitrous gas,” Vercaigne said. Invisalign®, to correct tooth align- ment, can be provided for patients start- ing at 12 years throughout adulthood. The system consists of a series of grad- uated trays which gently guide teeth to their correct position. “With Invisalign®, you can take the trays out for a couple of hours a day. You can brush and floss your teeth easi- ly to keep them nice and clean and free of decay. We scan our patients at the start and we can give you

“If a patient is in need of IV sedation, they would consult Dr. Geoff McIntosh, our principal dentist, who specializes in this area. For less progressive sedation we offer both oral sedation and Nitrous Oxide, which are both options for wis- dom tooth removal and all other facets of dentistry.” Dr. McIntosh also has extensive train- ing in dental implant procedures. “He’s been to many courses in the Unit- ed States and abroad to perfect that craft. He does single implants up to full replace- ments of both arches with implant sup- ported dentures,” Vercaigne said. Dr Vercaigne regularly performs root canals. Patients might be surprised at how quickly they can be completed. “I was very fortunate to have a great mentor right out of school, so it’s a pro- cedure I enjoy doing. We do them in one visit, usually within the hour,” he said. Some patients might consider a full mouth makeover. “A full mouth makeover would be re- storing all the teeth on the upper and the lower arches so that we can get that nice youthful smile back that we once loved about ourselves,” he said. It can also mitigate injuries or further damage to our teeth. “Patients may have had a challenging experience with dentistry and have avoid- ed care resulting in damage like missing or broken teeth. They may have large fillings or teeth that are worn down from grinding and clenching or a misaligned bite,” he said. “Restoring a full dentition can improve sleep, help with chewing function and diet, and offer many other benefits.” With new advance- ments, same-day

“The crown is made from Zirconium Dioxide or Zirconia, the strongest den- tal material we use that matches most closely to your natural teeth. The shades are very close to your natural tooth co- lour, so it looks nearly identical - and probably better - than the tooth that was there before.” All the new efficiencies come by staying up to date. “We have the newest technologies in all facets of care. The same-day crowns couldn’t be done without the scanners, for example.” “We have a 3D X-ray machine [Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)] which produces 3D images of the teeth and all the surrounding structures.” Taking gooey dental impressions is a thing of the past, now replaced by small wands that take digital impressions of the teeth. This helps significantly for people with gag reflexes that make a dental apt uncomfortable and for lots of patients, avoidance of the clinic all together. “The dental technology we use at Prin- cess Dental works to make the patient experience better because no one re- ally likes to sit in the chair for repeated visits,” said Dr. Nathan Vercaigne. “Our approach to dental treatment really en- sures patient comfort and convenience. Come and see us at Princess Dental we would love to make your next experience a wonderful one!” Reach out to Princess Dental, located at 3409 Victoria Avenue, Unit 7 in Brandon. Call them Mon-Fri 8am to 4pm at 204-727-0440 or email: info@princessdental.com. 

BY WENDY KING W hen it comes to dental care, keeping up with cutting edge technology improves accuracy and highly skilled delivery of treatment and a smooth, comfortable experience for all members of the family. quality. At Princess Dental, it also means

a digital mock-up of your new smile and show you what your new teeth would look like with as little as five trays.” As patients get older, it might be necessary to remove problem- atic wisdom teeth. “We try to take them out between 17 and 21 years old just because they can be impacted or partially impacted, becoming difficult to keep clean and even cause problems with not only the wisdoms themselves but adja- cent teeth,” he said. The majority of wisdom teeth can be done with lo- cal freezing but for patients that are nervous about the procedure, sedation is an option.

crowns are available. Within an hour the scan, digital measure- ments and design, milling, and process- ing of the crown can all be completed leading to a stress free and ef- ficient single visit. Out of town patients don’t have to take additional time off work to com- plete treatments. “People love same- day crowns. You only have to be frozen once and you can get that crown cemented the same day,” he said.

The dental technology we use at Princess Dental works to make the patient experience better because no one really likes to sit in the chair for repeated visits. Our approach to dental treatment really ensures patient comfort and convenience.” – DR. NATHAN VERCAIGNE, DENTIST AT PRINCESS DENTAL

Dr. Nathan Vercaigne at Princess Dental says cutting edge dental technology enhances patient comfort. (Submitted)

OCTOBER 25, 2025 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

3409 Victoria Ave Unit 7 204-727-0440 Brandon

We offer a complimentary scan of your mouth with every new patient adult exam. We are always accepting new patients and would love to meet you and your family.

Our approach to dental care is personalized and preventative. Along with everyday basic dental needs we offer a multitude of services from implants and sedation dentistry to Invisalign and full smile makeovers. We work to reduce the stress or anxiety that may surround visiting the dentist, so your family can feel comfortable in our care. 3409 Victoria Ave Unit 7, Brandon 204-727-0440 princessdental.com

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 25, 2025

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Running a SMALL BUSINESS means staying agile, and when opportunities arise, timing is everything. Whether you’re expanding operations, purchasing inventory, or covering unexpected costs, we put the power of quick funding in your hands.

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