Dear Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Member,

I think we can all agree this summer was one for the books. There’s been no shortage of challenges downtown and I want to thank those of you who have reached out to share your concerns and ideas for the future of this neighbourhood. We continue to advocate on your behalf for more improvements and investment downtown, and on issues that have a significant impact on our community. I look forward to sharing more this fall as we work with our partners to create real change for downtown and a vibrant neighbourhood all Winnipeggers can be proud of.

The work sure isn’t easy, but our team is just as passionate and committed to serving you, our members, as we have been throughout the past 2+ years. We’re getting even more creative and more determined. And you know we’re going to have fun doing it! That’s one of the things that’s so important to me as a leader of such a fantastic team… that they enjoy what they do, and who they’re doing it for.

So from our team to yours – I hope this fall is a fresh start and a positive reset for our downtown. We have a long way to go but together, our downtown will come back! Seeing all of our events back downtown is a clear sign we’re on the right track. And for those members who could use an extra boost, stay tuned to this newsletter as we’ll be launching applications for the new Building Business grant program by early October.

ManyFest: All Together Downtown

For the first time since 2019, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries ManyFest returns Sept. 9-11 at Broadway and Memorial Boulevard! The free event once again includes Food Truck Wars, a local artisan market, live music on two stages, carnival rides, a 3x3 basketball tournament, a pup patio, a family zone, and more.

September 9: 11:00AM-12 Midnight
September 10: 11:00AM-12 Midnight
September 11: 11:00AM-6:00PM

Street closures to be aware of:
Broadway between Osborne and Edmonton, along with Memorial Boulevard from Broadway to York, will be closed for the duration of the event. All streets will reopen in time for the Monday morning commute.

We're once again expecting thousands of guests to downtown Winnipeg to enjoy the festival. To encourage them to return and frequent downtown businesses, we're running a special Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Card promotion. More details below.

Downtown Winnipeg BIZ's “Bonus” Gift Cards are back for a limited time!

Back for a limited time over ManyFest weekend, Sept. 9-11, folks can purchase a $30 “Bonus” Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Card for $20. This gives a $10 bonus to spend at a participating downtown business of their choice.

Cards will be sold at the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ tent throughout the weekend at ManyFest.

Regular price Gift Cards can always be purchased online, or in-person at Downtown Family Foods or Jets Gear Canada Life Centre.

Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Cards are accepted at 200 participating businesses located within the Downtown Winnipeg Business Improvement Zone. For a list of where you the Gift Card can be used, visit downtownwinnipeggiftcard.com.

If you would like to accept the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Cards or would like to inquire about a bulk order, please contact us at info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com.

Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Gift Card is issued by PACE Savings & Credit Union Limited.

Card funds are not insured by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) or any other government deposit insurer or agency. Funds do not expire, non-reloadable and no cash access. For Cardholder Agreement or Customer Service: https://www.getmybalance.com/ or 1-833-558-1108.

State of Downtown Luncheon

In the next two years, tens of millions of dollars will be invested in our downtown as part of our city's Downtown Recovery Strategy - but what does that look like? Together with the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, and Exchange District BIZ, oin us for the first ever State of Downtown, where as a community we will envision and explore the future of our city's gathering place.

The event features keynote speaker, Mick Cornett, businessman and former 4-Term Mayor of Oklahoma City. Cornett is best known for helping to bring an NBA franchise to Oklahoma City and for addressing the community's health and wellness needs.

Just like OKC, we're not the biggest city in the country but our downtown holds major sporting and entertainment events, we have plenty of urban greenspaces and over 30 nationalities represented here. While we know there are challenges, there are also many opportunities. His keynote will give insight into his strategies and approaches to addressing challenges and sparking investment in OKC's core.

Tuesday, September 27, 2022
11:30AM-1:30PM
RBC Convention Centre

As a Downtown Winnipeg BIZ member, we are excited to offer you a discount on tickets. When purchasing, select Downtown/Exchange District BIZ member and use the code: DWTNEXCH2022 at checkout. Tickets are selling fast and there are limited seats available!

Get tickets and learn more about the keynote speaker.

As always, please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions:
204-958-4640
info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com

Thank you,

Kate Fenske, CEO
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ