Fusion Credit Union (FCU) has announced another round of Community Infusion winners.
Launched in 2021, Community Infusion is designed to promote economic development and entrepreneurship in FCU communities.
“Community Infusion stems from the belief that economic development is the foundation behind thriving communities,” said FCU Business Development manager Mike Csversko. “With community impact being a strategic priority for Fusion, the idea of a business competition to help grow local commerce was a natural fit.”
Through the annual Community Infusion competition, current and aspiring business owners can apply to share in up to $30,000 towards a new business idea, an expanding business idea, or the purchase or improvement of an existing business.
This year, Fusion received 17 submissions from entrepreneurs from 18 communities, and the four finalists participated in the live event in Russell, Oct. 4.
The 2nd Annual 2022 Community Infusion finalists included Fierce Female Hockey Camp, Moonlit Canopy, Dauphin Lake Rentals, and Modern Mini and Me online store.
With over 85 audience members in attendance, the four businesses pitched their idea to the Fusion panel of judges, and the $30,000 was awarded.
Fierce Female Hockey Camp won first place and was awarded $20,000. Moonlit Canopy came in second and won $5,000, and Dauphin Lake Rentals and Modern Mini and Me each won $2,500.
Darwin Johns, CEO of Fusion Credit Union, was on hand to award the prizes.
“The joy on our winners faces tonight is an excellent reminder of how important it is to offer these opportunities,” Johns said. “The Community Infusion event is another great example of just how much incredible entrepreneurial spirit lives in rural Manitoba.”
Melissa Rushton, Fusion’s director of Credit Risk, acted as a judge at the event.
“It was not an easy decision to make, as we had so many fantastic entrepreneurs share their journey and aspirations with us,” she said. “Community Infusion provides a platform for great ideas to come to life, and we have no doubt Amy Doerksen and the Fierce Female Hockey group will do amazing things with this prize money.”
