Parkland Shines for Economic Development Tour

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This article was published 29/05/2023 (831 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

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Two weeks-ago twenty eager business, community and government leaders headed to the Parkland region, three hours northwest of Winnipeg, on the first Manitoba Chambers of Commerce economic development tour in four years.

A unique way to explore business opportunities and expand new markets, economic development tours take delegates on a two-day deputation packed with meetings hosted by local chamber and economic development leaders connecting tour participants with elected officials and Indigenous leaders. Tour delegates explore Manitoba’s home field advantage while enjoying visits to local businesses and attractions as well as opportunities to network with decision-makers.

With a unique rural focus, the Parkland tour kicked-off with Mayor David Bosiak’s State of the City address to the Parkland Chamber of Commerce. Delegates heard about the city’s history, current economic state and population and workforce growth opportunities through the provincial nominee program.

The group toured Manitoba Metis Federation’s new Northwest Council office building, before heading to Ritz Machine Works, a manufacturing business that serves a global market for precision parts used in bus transportation, agriculture and side-by-side off-road vehicles. Ritz is a global leader in pipe bending with main manufacturing plants in Dauphin and Minnesota.

Vermillion Growers welcomed the group into their 10-acre precision greenhouse set to open in late fall. Vermillion is harnessing green energy technology only found in Europe to bring fresh vegetables from vine to table in 24 hours.

A networking reception wrapped up the first day, where delegates spent the evening mingling with business owners and entrepreneurs from Dauphin and the surrounding area.

The second day of the tour which receives funding from the Province of Manitoba started at Hemp Sense, an all-natural hemp product company based outside Gilbert Plains where they make hemp-based pet food and pet bedding with the world’s largest and best supply of hemp. Hemp Sense opened in 2018 and can be found online or in major store fronts across Canada.

The next stop was Old September, a delightful dual-purpose space with a coffee and gift shop at the store front and a maker space and floral shop at the back. Women owned this multi-use space has something for everyone.

Just down the road from Old September, Heartland Lanes operates a five-pin bowling alley complimented by billiards, arcade games and shuffleboard. The alley has been throwing strikes for more than 100 years and brings in live music and 90s theme nights.

West of Gilbert Plains, delegates got to wet their whistle at Grand Vieux Liquor sampling vodka and various liquors. The recipient of the Parkland Start Up Business of the Year award, Grand Vieux continues to grow.

Back in Dauphin, delegates heard from SciMar founder Mick Lautt on their groundbreaking work to prevent, detect and treat type 2 diabetes. Their bioscience technology is looking to create type 2 diabetes home testing kit to serve remote communities.

Norwex, the environmentally friendly cleaning product company, is located in Dauphin and serves as their main Canadian distribution hub. Shipping to 22 countries, Norwex started in 1999 and has over 600 diverse products.

The day’s last stop was Obsolete Brewery Company, where delegates got to sample beer on tap. Set to open in June, the owners are keen to invest not only in the local area but also the cycling community who take in nearby trails.

If you are interested in attending an economic development tour? The Chamber is headed to Morden/Winkler June 15-16. To learn more and register visit https://business.mbchamber.mb.ca/events/details/morden-winkler-economic-development-tour-133

Ready to Join the Chamber Network? We would love to have you!

Email Brent Hutton, bhutton@mbchamber.mb.ca or call our office at 204-948-0100.

To learn more about the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and upcoming events, including Economic Development Tours to rural and northern Manitoba, visit mbchamber.mb.ca.