2-minute read

Written by Probe Research and The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce

Today, we’re sharing a preview of key findings and recommendations from Winnipeg leaders across sectors on the greatest strengths and challenges facing our city as identified by attendees of ECONx. ECONx was a first-of-its-kind economic summit created by The Chamber after Mayor Scott Gillingham called on us to bring together business and community leaders to decide how we can collectively move our city’s economy forward. 

At The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, we believe good decisions start with good data. So, we partnered with Probe Research and worked with our members to identify Winnipeg’s key economic drivers that, if we got right, could make the most impact on the future of our city. Then, on April 29, leaders across communities and sectors, including government, business and education, discussed the biggest challenges and potential solutions. 

Now, we’re happy to share a sneak peek before we release a full summary of our findings and recommendations later this month.  

What We Heard 

1. Winnipeg’s community is a strength
   When asked what makes Winnipeg great, attendees used the words community, culture, diversity, and friendliness. Half of the participants said the most important driver of economic growth is collaboration with each other, across sectors, and with the communities we serve. 
2. Winnipeg can be innovative – but needs the right conditions
   Attendees want Winnipeg to be known for innovation, growth and opportunities. But more than half said we’re falling short on innovation, and many want practical guidance on how to apply new tools like AI and sustainability practices in their everyday work.
3. Equity and inclusion must be built into growth strategies
   More than half of ECONx attendees agreed Winnipeg is moving toward a more diverse and equitable future but emphasized the importance of sustaining that momentum and removing systemic barriers across sectors.
4. Collaboration is essential
   Participants identified both local and interprovincial collaboration as key to economic success. Whether it be collaboration with a diverse workforce, government policymakers, likeminded local institutions or other provinces for trade deals, ECONx attendees wanted to work together to improve the economy for everyone.
5. Winnipeg needs long-term thinking
   Attendees voiced a strong desire to see zoning and development policies that enable more livable, inclusive, and future-ready communities and frustration with short-term political cycles stalling long-term solutions. 

Real change will start with all of us. 

If we want a new economy, if we want a more vibrant, prosperous Winnipeg for all, it’s going to take daily recommitment from all of us acting on these challenges and potential solutions. 

Whether you’re a policy maker shaping decisions, a business leader creating jobs, a student imagining your future, or a resident investing in your neighbourhood, we need to shape, create, imagine, and invest together. 

This way, we take control of what’s next for Winnipeg, together. 

Thank you – and stay tuned for the full report later this month.