Edge Business Expo returns to Ritchot

The RM of Ritchot is hosting its second annual Edge Business Expo in January and tickets are going fast.

Building on the success and momentum of the first year, Mayor Chris Ewen said more than half of the tickets have already been sold.

“To see that kind of success in such a short amount of time really shows that there are businesses that want to learn, and there are businesses that want to learn more about Ritchot, and there are businesses that want to create a better environment and opportunity to be their partners, to be their employees, it could be their customer. It’s just an all-round successful thing that’s’ happening in Ritchot.”

Headlining guest speaker at the expo is David Chilton author of The Wealthy Barber and of Dragon’s Den fame. The expo website states Chilton’s “speeches are not just about money. They’re about believing in yourself, overcoming mistakes…and, most importantly, they’re about perspective – essential elements for success in business and life.”

“David Chilton is a leader in this, how to save money, how to invest money, and we thought it would be a great opportunity to bring someone who is well spoken, and has a strong celebrity presence, and also has a wealth of knowledge about investment, and we think businesses appreciate that,” said Ewen.

Another speaker at the event is former journalist turned media consultant Nicoe Dubé. Dubé will host a workshop on storytelling and how to engage an audience.

“The thing that I’ve learned, and researched, and studied is that information lands so much easier in the minds of whoever it is you’re trying to engage with when the information is folded into a very compelling and strategic story,” she said.

One business that has done that, according to Dubé, is Winnipeg-based Jenna Rae Cakes. The company has become iconic in Winnipeg with its branding by incorporating the co-founders into its marketing. The bakery has grown to four locations and two cookbooks.

“Any small business that has launched and is sharing their origin story and puts a face behind the brand goes really far,” noted Dubé.

The Edge Business Expo will run from Jan. 22 to 23 in Ile des Chenes. Tickets can be purchased at edgebusinessexpo.com/ritchot-2025/.