Southern Manitoba isn’t waiting for the future, it’s building it. On July 17, we hit the road with more than 30 business and community leaders for the second Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Economic Development Tour of 2025. Our destination? The Highway 75 Corridor — a stretch of southern Manitoba known not only for its critical trade role but for its dynamic, resilient communities shaping the future of our province.
What We Saw
Over the course of one packed day, our delegation experienced firsthand the ingenuity and impact of rural economic development. Here are just a few of the powerful stops along the way:
Bruce D. Campbell Farm & Food Discovery Centre – Glenlea
Our tour kicked off with an up-close look at agricultural education in action. From live demos to livestock encounters, the Discovery Centre showcased how Manitoba is cultivating food literacy and inspiring the next generation of ag innovators.
Black Earth Grills – Ste. Agathe
Premium craftsmanship, made to scale. Delegates toured the Crystal Springs Hutterite Colony’s cutting-edge facility producing luxury BBQs that are as sleek as they are functional — a shining example of rural manufacturing with global reach.
Lilystone Gardens – Rosenort
Lunch was served with a side of beauty and sustainability at Lilystone Gardens. This family-run business is redefining what it means to “grow local,” blending floral agriculture, hospitality, and community impact in full bloom. We were joined by RM of Morris Reeve Scott Siemens and CAO Wes Unrau who provided an overview of the potential opportunities in the region.
Pattern Energy Wind Farm – St. Joseph
Clean energy met community dividends at this Manitoba Green Advantage-backed stop. The St. Joseph Wind Farm is a blueprint for rural infrastructure that not only fuels the grid but drives long-term value for municipalities and landowners.
Mid Canada Transload Services – Letellier
A potetnial inland port connecting Manitoba to the world. From bulk commodities to international shipments, Mid Canada Transload is proving that prairie logistics can pack a global punch.
Town of Morris
Our final leg brought us to Morris, where we toured the industrial park with Morris Mayor Scott Crick, checked out the town’s impressive Multiplex arena, and capped off the day with a steak dinner fundraiser hosted by the Morris Fire Department and Morris Chamber of Commerce during their Stampede Kick-Off.
The Takeaway
This tour wasn’t just a series of site visits; it was a powerful reminder that rural Manitoba is a key player in driving our province’s economic growth. A big thank you to the Morris & District Chamber of Commerce for their support and guidance with this tour.
Why It Matters
At the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, we know that insight leads to impact. Our Economic Development Tours offer members behind-the-scenes access to the ideas, leaders, and infrastructure shaping Manitoba’s economic future.
Whether you’re looking to forge partnerships, explore procurement opportunities, or deepen your understanding of rural development, these tours deliver high-value connection in a uniquely immersive format.
Interested in coming along next time?
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View the full photo gallery from the tour here.
