Piney chamber celebrates 10 years

They’ve come a long way since the 2016 founding of the Piney Regional Chamber of Commerce, but the organization maintains the same mission.

That mission is to support economic development, provide value to members, strengthen partnerships and enhance the region as a place to work, live, raise families and do business.

The chamber celebrated the last decade of existence with an event held Sept. 10 in Vassar.

President Jason Ginter said the milestone is a big one.

“Ten years is huge, especially for a rural community to have such a thriving chamber with all those wonderful people, these businesses coming here,” he said. “It’s been amazing to see how it’s grown and how so much of the community has backed us and walked with us these 10 years. It’s been incredible.”

The timeline shared at the meeting showed humble beginnings that turned into big accomplishments.

A year after the founding of the chamber of commerce, grant funding for portable promotional signs and a regional strategic development process were priorities.

The following year the signs were purchased, and the chamber hosted their first career symposium with 18 exhibitors, hosted a municipal candidate meet and greet, and advocated on health care, border services, cell service and housing.

A strategic plan was adopted in 2019 and the following year supporting local became even more important as COVID-19 restrictions took hold.

More programs were implemented in 2022. The Christmas gift card campaign generated $15,000 in local sales and about $1,200 for the Vita Healing Garden.

PRCC also showcased the Library of Things, provided logistic support for 49 Christmas hampers and advanced assisted housing initiatives and connections with the RM of Stuartburn.

Growth continued in both their annual career symposium and the number of members, which is currently at 33.

The group has generated more than $90,000 in grant funding and delivered 150 welcome kits to new residents.

Ginter said that although some of the challenges involve the distance between them and major centres, it’s also a strength that allows them to showcase their part of the province.

“We get the chance to be more creative in our business practices and also we have an amazing landscape in southern Manitoba,” he said. “We have some great opportunities.”

Ginter said they are seeing growth in the region and the interest in their chamber reflects that.

As he looks ahead at the next decade, Ginter said he does have one wish for the region.

“I would love seeing more and more companies and businesses come into the community,” he said.