Written by Casey Clair, Energy & Climate Advocate
Community-based sustainability is a key strategy in developing flourishing eco-conscious businesses. At The Chamber, it is important for us to promote sustainable businesses and their green initiatives. In our Sustainability Spotlights, we will shift our focus towards sustainable practices and the people that adopt and amplify them.
Spring has arrived in Winnipeg, and while the temperature might still be playing catch-up, we’re already getting excited for park days, hiking trails and all the other fun in the sun ahead. And with this sense of opportunity at all the ways we can enjoy our environment well into the future, we also have an opportunity to think about how we can protect its future.
So today, we’re highlighting a Winnipeg organization helping local businesses do just that – and how you can, too.
Meet Manitoba Environmental Industries Association
We recently caught up with Jack Winram, Executive Director of the Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA). Since 1991, MEIA has grown from a small coalition of businesses into Manitoba’s leading advocate for the environmental sector. Their mission? Equip local businesses with the resources, training, and support they need to operate and lead sustainably.
MEIA supports businesses across sectors—from clean energy and waste management to environmental remediation. When we asked Jack to describe MEIA’s role, he offered an analogy familiar to our members.
“I like to think of ourselves as a Chamber of Commerce—but specifically focused on environmental industries. We organize events, promote local businesses, and serve as the central connection for companies that prioritize sustainability.”
— Jack Winram, Executive Director, MEIA
He says the “how” is collaborative, and practical. MEIA works with local businesses to provide advocacy, specialized training, and resources to navigate environmental regulations. They can help you figure out ways to reduce your carbon footprint, get environmental certifications, and connect with industry leaders, or startups. They also offer training on environmental law, freshwater sampling, site remediation and waste management, directly supporting workforce development and tech innovation in Manitoba.
Now, with Spring in the air, Jack and his team are planting a new seed to grow Winnipeg sustainably.
MEIA Will Shape Sustainable Growth at ECONx
On April 29, Jack and his team are stepping up as strategic partners for our inaugural economic summit, ECONx. Here, MEIA will join Winnipeg’s business leaders and industry experts in finding new ways to bring governments, businesses, and communities together to adopt green tech and create a more economically resilient Winnipeg.
This session, “Winnipeg as a Leader in Sustainable Growth,” led by CanSustain’s Tannis Ostermann, is built around growing challenges and opportunities facing Winnipeg’s economy.
“Economic development, energy transition, sustainability—these topics are making headlines daily, shaping conversations among policymakers and communities alike. For Manitoba and Winnipeg, it’s essential we have an open, informed discussion about the best path forward, clearly identifying our priorities and working together to address them.”
— Jack Winram, Executive Director, MEIA
We couldn’t agree more.
Connect with MEIA and Help Make Winnipeg a Leader in Sustainability
MEIA shows us sustainability is more than just a concept – it’s about working together with businesses, educators, and communities to take practical steps in the right direction. Now, we’re inviting you to do the same.
As we shake off the last of winter, let’s use this opportunity for renewal and growth. Join MEIA—and your fellow Chamber members—at ECONx. Together, we can build a future where Winnipeg doesn’t just participate in sustainability conversations but leads them.
Ready to make a real difference?
Register for ECONx and join MEIA in shaping Winnipeg’s sustainable future
Want to connect with Jack and MEIA online?
