Written by Gwen Black, Policy and Government Relations Manager
Advocacy in Action…
In December, Winnipeg City Council deliberated a motion to create a Financial Assistance Program for Small Businesses Undergoing Major Works, aimed at supporting businesses directly impacted by long-term construction and modelled after the City of Montréal’s program.
The Chamber submitted a letter of support, as this program was a specific recommendation in our 2022 Civic Election Platform. While the motion did not pass, we continue to advocate for a healthy city and strong business community on behalf of our members.
City of Winnipeg 2026 Budget Update Passes
The day prior, The Chamber’s President and CEO, Loren Remillard, appeared in delegation to speak to the City’s 2026 Budget update. During his remarks, he called on the City to ensure future budgets clearly outline expected outcomes and key performance indicators, allowing Winnipeggers to better understand the impact of service investments. His comments also reaffirmed The Chamber’s goal of making Winnipeg the easiest city to do business in.
The budget was then passed later that day.
What We’re Watching: Key Trends and Emerging Issues
City of Winnipeg
Most City of Winnipeg development permits are now online – a meaningful step forward for accessibility and ease of doing business. The Chamber has consistently advocated for the City of Winnipeg to digitize services to make economic growth, more accessible and we are glad to see this progress take shape.
As these changes roll out, we’ll look to our members as our eyes and ears on the ground. We want to hear about your experience using the new online permitting system – what’s working and where there’s room for improvement. Share your feedback with your Policy and Government Relations Manager, Gwen Black.
New City Development Opportunity
The City of Winnipeg is seeking developers interested in building multi-unit homes on City-owned lots. Expressions of interest are open until February 19, 2026.
For more information, visit the City of Winnipeg website.
Province of Manitoba
The Government of Manitoba has opened public consultation on Budget 2026, including an online survey open until February 21, 2026.
Following this announcement, the Province’s 2025–26 second quarter report revealed the projected deficit is expected to grow to $1.6 billion, more than double last year’s deficit projection of $794 million. The report highlights that climate change-driven wildfires and drought, along with economic impacts from U.S. tariffs, have contributed to pressures on the province’s fiscal outlook. of $794 million. The report highlights that climate change-driven wildfires and drought, along with economic impacts from U.S. tariffs, have contributed to pressures on the province’s fiscal outlook.
We will share more details on The Chamber’s pre-budget policy activities as we move closer to Manitoba Budget day.
The Manitoba government announces a $10 million Business Security Rebate Program
Manitoba businesses with fewer than 75 employees can now access up to $2,500 per location to support security upgrades and repairs. Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Three New Subcommittees on The Premier’s Business and Jobs Council
The Premier’s Business and Jobs Council has established new subcommittees focused on tourism, workforce development, and trade diversification. The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Loren Remillard, serves on both the main Council and the Trade Diversification Subcommittee,. We are looking forward to continuing bringing the voice of Winnipeg’s business community to these critical discussions.
Government of Canada
Don’t miss our upcoming conversation with The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, on February 17, 2026.
As Manitoba works to strengthen trade corridors and supply chains in support of trade diversification, Minister MacKinnon will share federal priorities for shaping Canada’s transportation network.
