What a difference a year can make.

This time last year, we were hard at work preparing for our “Driving Competitiveness” event where we welcomed over 300 of Manitoba’s leaders to the release of For the Benefit of All—a report authored by Dr. Robert Murray that set the course for creating a coordinated economically competitive Winnipeg Metro Region and Province of Manitoba. 

For the Benefit of All highlighted the need for collaboration in the form of a regional growth management and servicing plan—something that the WMR leaders have been working on ever since. Plan20-50 will optimize efforts and establish collaboration across the region for the benefit of all Manitobans. Dr. Murray provided a three-step process with the ultimate goal to increase the Winnipeg Metro Region’s overall economic competitiveness and ability to attract and retain investment.

Today, exactly one year later, we are all trying our best to carefully maneuver through the challenges and hurdles that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought. This pandemic has called on all Manitobans to be creative and generous in spirit. It has shed a light on many realities, and one of the greatest lessons has been that working together is the key to our success in Manitoba. As we reflect on the past year and the beginning of Plan20-50, it as become abundantly clear that this work has never been more important.

Much has changed in one year, but the pandemic’s impact on our economy and our way of life has not diminished the need for collaboration—if anything, it has shown us that we must double down on this path.

“Only by moving forward together can the Winnipeg Metro Region achieve its fullest potential and achieve benefits for all Manitobans.” —Dr. Robert Murray.