Pinawa Chamber of Commerce – Summer 2025 Update
Greetings Pinawa Chamber Members,
We hope you’ve all been enjoying your summer and finding time to recharge. For many of us with seasonal businesses, this time of year can be especially busy, but it’s always important to pause and refresh our energy for the months ahead.
Here’s a look at what’s been happening with the Pinawa Chamber and our local business community:
2025 Annual General Meeting
On March 20, we held another successful AGM at the Pinawa Club with a great turnout of business owners and community leaders. Attendees enjoyed lively conversations, updates from our board, and the election of the 2025–2026 board:
- Eric Busch (President)
- Shawn Hewitt (Vice-President)
- Steven Simpson (Treasurer)
- Alicia Busch (Secretary)
- Connor Riach
- Chris Fehr
- Jeremy Faure
We’re pleased to welcome new board members Chris, Shawn, and Jeremy, and we thank our returning members for continuing their service.
Business Directory
Our new Business Directory is now displayed at the Access Mall and WB Lewis Business Centre. A big thank-you goes to Alicia Busch (Everli Brand Polishing) for the design work.
You can also view the up-to-date member list anytime on our website, maintained by Connor Riach (Aquatic Life).
Business Advocacy
The Chamber continues to advocate for the needs of Pinawa businesses through active communication with the LGD of Pinawa.
A key outcome has been the creation of a Business Toolkit, which outlines taxes, fees, and permit requirements for businesses operating on commercial or LGD-owned land. This toolkit was developed in response to member feedback for greater clarity around regulations.
We’ve also emphasized the importance of stability in government policy and fees, and the need for advance notice of changes to help businesses plan and adapt effectively. We’ll continue pushing for transparent, stable business policies on your behalf.
Pinawa Welcome Bags
The LGD of Pinawa is continuing its Welcome Bag Program for new residents. Local businesses are encouraged to contribute brochures, coupons, or unique promotional items to showcase their services.
For more information, contact Lee-Ann Petruskavich at admin@pinawa.com or drop items at the LGD town office.
Business Needs Survey
We’re putting the finishing touches on our next Business Needs Survey, which will help us understand your priorities and challenges. The feedback we receive directly shapes the Chamber’s work, so please take a few minutes to complete the survey when it’s released.
Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Updates
Tour of Whiteshell Nuclear Site
On July 8, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) toured the Whiteshell Nuclear Site to explore its potential role in a diversified energy strategy for Manitoba. Beyond the idea of Small Modular Reactors, MCC is also examining opportunities such as:
- Green hydrogen production
- Long-duration energy storage
- Microgrid and advanced grid systems
- Clean fuels and industrial decarbonization pilots
- Carbon capture technologies
You can read the full article on the MCC website: From Research Legacy to Clean Energy Potential: MCC Staff Tours Whiteshell Laboratories.
Member Benefits
- Group Insurance Plan: Exclusive to Chamber members, this is Canada’s leading group plan for businesses with 1–50 employees. Learn more here.
- MCC eWeekly Newsletter: Stay current on initiatives, government announcements, and member profiles. Sign up here.
- Member Value Programs: Access exclusive discounts and rates on business services. Details here.
Thank You
As always, we welcome your feedback, questions, or ideas—please reach out to me or any of our board members. Contact details are available on our website.
Enjoy the rest of your summer, and thank you for being part of the Pinawa Chamber of Commerce.
Best Regards,
Eric Busch
President, Pinawa Chamber of Commerce