SWCC unveils new brand

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Strathmore Wheatland Chamber of Commerce (SWCC) unveiled their new brand, as well as the winner of their logo design contest, Feb. 21, during a coffee connection event at the ConnectFirst Credit Union in Strathmore. 

“The chamber had a logo design contest running over the last few months, so we have selected a winner. She (was in attendance), we presented her with prize money and unveiled the chamber’s new brand,” said Cody Holdaway, communications chair and director with the SWCC. “Internally at the chamber, we see this new brand as a new beginning for the organization. We have an entirely new board of directors, we are working on some really great benefits for our members, and overall, I think this new logo serves as a new face for the Strathmore and Wheatland County business community.”

Holdaway added the chamber, prior to the new brand, had been receiving feedback from its members about some of its downfalls, thus sparking the conversation for an overhaul.

The SWCC launched their campaign for a new logo in November 2023, opening submissions to the local community with a $1,000 incentive on the line for the winner. 

The submission window was open to anyone who wished to put forward an idea, being not exclusive to chamber members. 

“The board received about 30-35 submissions in the contest and when we really sat down and went through them, the one that we selected was a unanimous vote,” said Holdaway. “The logo we have selected is just everything we wanted. It really embodies the region and it is just a great new logo.”

Kendra Milne ultimately submitted the logo which was adopted by the SWCC and took home the $1,000 prize, with which she was presented during the brand unveiling. 

Holdaway added the chamber internally is working on a new website and a new benefits package for member businesses in order to ensure they get the most out of their money investing in the chamber.

“The chamber is really there to advocate for and support our local business community, whether it be with government or with other local businesses,” he said. “This new logo is really a fresh start for the organization, and we are really trying to continue to grow.”

The coffee connection event was the first such event to have taken place for the chamber in 2024, which aims to take place monthly at a different local business. 

If any business wishes to host a similar event, the chamber is able to be contacted for such through their website.