Dear Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Member,

Share your voice to help shape our work in 2022

If you were able to join us for our AGM in November, you already know 2022 is going to be a big year. The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s work will be focused on downtown recovery, and to make the best impact, we need to know what our members need from us. You can have your say to help shape our work for downtown next year.

We’re asking all members to fill out a short 5-10 minute survey 5-10 minute survey to understand how the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ can help you in 2022. Please fill out the survey by Tuesday, Dec. 21 at 5:00pm.

Just in time for the holiday season, everyone who fills out the survey can enter a draw for a Downtown Winnipeg Gift Card, which will be on sale to the public soon!

If you require assistance with filling out the survey, reach out to us. We’re here to help. Email info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com.

Grants available to retrain employees

The Province of Manitoba with Economic Development Winnipeg and the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce have created Retrain Manitoba to reimburse employers that have encouraged the professional growth of their staff through continued education and training opportunities.

What you need to know

• Retrain Manitoba will distribute grants promoting the upskilling of Manitoba’s workforce until March 31, 2022, or until the program budget has been used.

• Investments made by employers between April 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022 are considered eligible for reimbursement.

• Reimbursements will only be considered for skill development courses that have been previously paid for by employers. A submission of paid course receipts is required.

• Any course which is industry-recognized and deemed necessary by the employer is eligible. Training must be provided by a third-party trainer. Examples of courses include information technology, tourism education and skilled trades.

Who can apply

• All active and permanent Manitoba-based registered businesses with a Manitoba Business Number.

• Must be in good standing with the Manitoba Companies Office at the time of application.

• Businesses of all sizes are eligible, and reimbursements may be distributed for an unlimited number of employees.

For more information and to apply, visit Retrain Manitoba.

#BuyLocalMB campaign aims to spread the word about local businesses

The Manitoba Chamber of Commerce campaign encourages customers to shop local and “Buy. Brag. Tag.” while using #BuyLocalMB. The campaign is designed to motivate your customers to promote your products across social media channels.

How it works:

1) BUY local and show support and love for your community.

2) BRAG about your purchase or experience on social media using the hashtag #BuyLocalMB.

3) TAG the supported business via social media platforms. Challenge three others to participate

If you help your customers know about the campaign, they might even throw a little social media love your way.

We’ll be getting a small number of swag packages which include window clings and shopping bags. If this sounds like a campaign that works for you, email saz@downtownwinnipegbiz.com to reserve your #BuyLocalMB package. Quantities are limited so first come, first served.

Learn more about modernizing your business tech and systems

Tech Manitoba is hosting a new virtual expo designed to support small businesses and non-profits looking to upgrade their tech and operations. Plus, there’s no cost to register or attend.

The Manitoba Tech Trade Expo is designed to facilitate connections between Manitoba businesses seeking innovative tools to support and adapt their operations with local tech service providers that can help.

By attending, you’ll be able to explore an interactive virtual tradeshow floor and engage with different Manitoba tech service providers. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn more about tools including new hardware, apps, payment systems and digital marketing.


Manitoba Tech Trade Expo »

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