On February 6, 2026, more than 40 local businesses from the Gimli, Manitoba, area were nominated for the Interlake Regional Business Excellence Awards, which spotlighted the region’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. The event, held at the Gimli Recreation Centre, highlighted the importance of these year-round industries, which provide steady jobs and support the local economy.
The ceremony was hosted by the Gimli Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Community Futures East Interlake. More than 20 businesses — including retailers and service providers — received awards across new categories such as Sustainable Fisheries and Agri-Innovation for contributions to new farming methods and sustainable fishing practices.
This year’s awards focused on businesses that keep the community’s supply chains strong, such as local fishing families and grain producers. According to the Gimli Harbour Authority, the local port supports over 50 commercial fishing families who help drive the region’s economy outside of the busy summer tourism season.
Representatives from the Rural Municipality of Gimli (RM of Gimli) noted that these awards help promote local businesses and show how traditional industries are using modern technology. Nominations also included large employers such as the Crown Royal distillery in Gimli, whose operations use roughly 10,000 bushels of grain daily sourced from Manitoba and surrounding provinces.
The recognition marks a successful period for local fishers who have adapted to environmental changes in Lake Winnipeg. By celebrating these achievements, the community aims to encourage more young people to pursue careers in the agriculture and fisheries sectors close to home.
