MEMBER DIRECTORY

CHAMBER EVENTS

 

Monthly Recap

The Chamber started the new year with a vibrant lineup of January events that drew members from across the communities. Each gathering offered fresh ways to gather, share ideas, and build momentum for the year ahead.

Upcoming Chamber Events

 

February 9

Blue Ox Success Series: Running for Office

Learn More ⮕

February 18

Explore Brainerd Lakes Area Tourism Monthly Meeting

Learn More ⮕

February 26-27

Blue Ox Business Academy: 2026 Leader's Edge

Learn More ⮕

JANUARY NETWORKING EVENTS

 

Explore Crosslake Business Meeting

Northern Minnesota Railroad Heritage Association hosted our January Explore Crosslake Business Meeting. With two floors packed with a variety of displays, it's is a must-see for all ages visiting Crosslake!

We’ve also started a monthly Chamber prize drawing. Attend the meeting as a chamber member business and you could win!


This Chamber-facilitated event takes place the first Thursday of each month. Contact Cindy to host, (218) 692-4027.


Next meeting: Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Key Wellness & Aesthetics

Explore Pequot Lakes Business Meeting

American Legion Post 49 in Pequot Lakes hosted our January Explore Pequot Lakes meeting. More than a meeting space, the Legion is a true community hub—supporting veterans, promoting patriotism, investing in youth, and bringing people together through service and connection.


This Chamber-facilitated event takes place the last Wednesday of each month. Contact Nichole to host, (218) 568-8911.


Next meeting: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at the Pequot Lakes Chamber

 

Business After Hours: Speed Networking

Chamber members kicked off 2026 at Jack Pine Brewery with SPEED Networking, a fast-paced, high-energy event designed to build meaningful business connections.

Attendees rotated through structured one-on-one conversations, making dozens of new connections in a fun and efficient format. With appetizers, a cash bar, and added social time, participants left with valuable contacts and strong momentum for the year ahead.

Business After Hours: ATHENA Awards and 5Rock Distilling

Positive vibes were in full swing at 5Rocks Distilling as Chamber members and guests gathered for Business After Hours and the announcement of the inaugural Brainerd Lakes Area ATHENA Awards.

Attendees enjoyed high-energy networking, appetizers, specialty cocktails, prize drawings, and a casual live interview celebrating leadership and inspiration, and encouraging everyone to learn more about the upcoming ATHENA Awards.

JANUARY SIGNATURE EVENTS

 

Pequot Lakes Excellence in Service Awards

The Pequot Lakes Chamber hosted the 2026 Excellence in Service Awards at the Pequot Lakes American Legion. The event brought the community together for a social hour, dinner, and an awards program recognizing excellence in local service and leadership.


2026 award recipients honored:

  • Business of the Year: Salon Couture
  • Nonprofit of the Year: Lakes Area Food Shelf
  • Citizen of the Year: Leon Zender
  • Employee of the Year: Andy Schwartz (City of Pequot Lakes)
  • All-School Staff of the Year: Nicki Triebenbach (Pequot Lakes High School)


The event was sold out, reflecting strong community support for celebrating these honorees.

JANUARY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

 

2025-2026 Leadership Experience:

Healthcare Day

Our Leadership Experience cohort spent a full day exploring the inner workings of local health care, guided by Essentia Health. Participants heard from regional leaders, gained insight into workforce and innovation challenges, and took part in hands‑on activities ranging from physical therapy and cardiology demos to emergency services tours. The day highlighted how leadership, teamwork, and adaptability shape one of our region’s most essential industries.

 

Washington Street Prep & Plan Business Meetings

The Chamber, BLAEDC, and the City of Brainerd partnered with MnDOT to host two identical business information sessions.

More than 40 businesses gathered to plan and prepare for the upcoming Washington Street reconstruction, which will begin this spring and is scheduled for completion in 2027. The sessions provided project updates, resources, and guidance to help businesses prepare and stay informed throughout construction.

Email Matt for More Info ⮕

WAVE Young Professionals

The WAVE Young Professionals Network hosted an engaging workshop on public speaking.

The young professionals learned to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and gained practical techniques for effective speaking. The session offered hands‑on practice and helpful resources to support their growth in both personal and professional settings.


Next WAVE Event: Tuesday, February 17 - Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Growth

Email Ali for More Info ⮕

 

CHAMBER FUN

 

A few Chamber staff gathered at the Northland Arboretum to take advantage of the beautiful winter weather. Some chose the hiking trails while others tried out the new forest ice skating trail. It was a perfect chance to enjoy the outdoors right in our own backyard!

SERVING IN OUR COMMUNITY

 

Welcome Center Manager Jess Vogt is stepping into the spotlight—and out of her comfort zone— to raise funds for Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity as a Star Dancer in their annual fundraiser, Dancing With the Lakes Area Stars, on April 10. Jess will be partnered with veteran star dancer Andrew Ostlund (CLA).

Click Here to Support Jess ⮕

www.BrainerdLakesChamber.com

(218) 829-2838 | (218) 450-2838

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