In 2025, the Downtown BIZ is getting back to business – which is your business. This is your chance to help direct our plans for the year ahead.

Our focus has been getting folks to understand the importance of downtown – that a thriving downtown neighbourhood is critical for the success of our city and province. Decision-makers and community leaders have listened and responded, and tangible action is taking place throughout our downtown to support residential and commercial growth. Strategic and coordinated efforts are also underway to address crime and public safety that look at both immediate and long-term solutions.

While our members have always been a priority, we want to spend more time and energy helping you succeed. Your input on our programs and initiatives is critical as we finalize our plans for the year ahead.

Take our quick year-end member survey (it only takes less than 10 minutes!) and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a $500 Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Card, which can be used at over 200 businesses in our zone.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN

If you need assistance with the survey, feel free to email us at info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com or call 204-958-4640.

It was great to connect with BIZ members, Board of Directors and our downtown stakeholders and partners last week at our Annual General Meeting and reception. We had the opportunity to share highlights from 2024, and our plans for the year ahead. A big takeaway from the year is that when it comes to downtown, two things can be true at once – we can tackle our challenges and celebrate our wins. I am optimistic about the year ahead, and our team is committed to ensuring our efforts provide member value and move downtown forward in a positive direction.

You can read the 2024 Annual Report on our website.

ANNUAL REPORT (PDF)

Downtown is buzzing with festive energy, and we’re kicking things off Thursday with our Downtown Winnipeg Holiday Farmers’ Market! Enjoy live music from talented local artists and shop from over 40 unique vendors.

As a Downtown BIZ member, you can apply to become a market vendor for free. Once accepted, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your products or services at Cityplace to over 1,000 visitors who join us at every market. It’s the perfect way to connect with the community and boost your visibility this holiday season.

Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Cards also make the perfect gift. Redeemable at over 200 Downtown BIZ businesses, they’re a meaningful way to support local and give the gift of choice. To place an order, email info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com or stop by our office at 426 Portage Avenue.

Finally, if your business has special holiday promotions or offers, let us help you spread the word! Contact Kristian, our Marketing and Communications Specialist, at kristian@downtownwinnipegbiz.com, and we’ll collaborate to share your message with the downtown community.

We know financial challenges are real for everyone, inflation continues to impact both individuals and businesses. The federal government recently announced a two-month GST tax break on groceries and “holiday essentials”.

Starting December 14, 2024, eligible goods will benefit from a GST tax break through February 15, 2025. This temporary measure could provide a timely opportunity to attract more customers, boost sales, and keep business moving during the colder, winter months.

The GST tax break will apply to:

• Restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout, or delivery.
• Snacks, including chips, candy, and granola bars.
• Beer, wine, cider, and pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below 7 per cent ABV.
• Children’s toys, such as board games, dolls, and video game consoles.
• Books, print newspapers, and puzzles.

Learn more about how this tax break and if it helps your business, share it with your customers to spread the word.

KNOW MORE

Thank you,

Kate Fenske, CEO
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ