Jan. 19, 2024, Treaty No. 1 Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Business owners and employees gathered at Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s Downtown Speaker Series event today to hear from Premier Wab Kinew as he shared the Manitoba government’s plans and priorities for revitalizing downtown Winnipeg. Downtown Speaker Series is held quarterly, connecting members of the Downtown Winnipeg Business Improvement Zone with experts and decision-makers on issues that matter.
“Winnipeg’s downtown is Manitoba’s downtown – that means we’re all invested in a growing, prosperous downtown core that offers economic opportunities, vibrant arts and culture, delicious restaurants and exciting sports and entertainment,” said Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba. “Our government believes every Manitoban should be proud to show off downtown, whether it be to out-of-town friends or an important investor. We’re ready to partner with the business community to make that happen.”
At the event, Premier Kinew shared his vision for a downtown that serves all Manitobans: a safe and vibrant destination for people to live, work, and play; a cultural centre with support and connections; a place where business and innovation thrive; and a community where all are welcome and economic and social reconciliation is in action every day.
“We’re grateful the Premier acknowledges the importance of downtown Winnipeg and is passionate about making positive change in the heart of our city for the good of all Manitobans,” says Kate Fenske, CEO of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. “Downtown Winnipeg is important and vital to the health of the city and province and it was fantastic to bring the downtown business community together to learn more about the Premier’s plans to support this neighbourhood as an economic driver and everyone who calls downtown home.”
More than 70 representatives from downtown businesses attended today’s Downtown Speaker Series event, held at WAG-Qaumajuq. Those in attendance were from various sectors, including hospitality, property management and retail. Employees of large offices located downtown were also in attendance.
Downtown Speaker Series concluded with mingling and refreshments to encourage the downtown business community to continue the conversation and make connections.
Downtown BIZ will hold the next Downtown Speaker Series event later this spring.