Issue link: http://tourismwpg.uberflip.com/i/1113649
6 2018 Annual Report If you've noticed that more people are talking about Winnipeg in a positive light, or felt like the city's positive reputation is increasing – you're not alone. Winnipeg has been making a name for itself on the world stage. Our recent successes in economic development, business development, and tourism are all contributing to our city's exciting new narrative. 2018 was an excellent year for Winnipeg. Big things are happening here, and the world is taking notice of us. We've seen the launch and expansion of businesses in cutting-edge industries, an increase in our population, and completed real estate projects that are virtually unprecedented in our city's history. A highlight from last year was the Winnipeg Whiteout Street Parties. Our city was the place to be for a few months. Economic Development Winnipeg took a leadership role in organizing these events because we saw the potential to have an impact on Winnipeg's reputation across North America. We wanted people to be talking about Winnipeg – not just our hockey team, but our city. We achieved that goal. Last spring, millions of people saw our city on their screens, or read about our energy and passion. The Whiteout Street Parties were a stunning success. Building on that positive press, EDW has been using Winnipeg's new reputation to help attract new business, conferences, and tourists to our city. The Whiteout Street Parties helped EDW open doors to attract meetings, conventions, and talent here – something we'll see the benefit of for years to come. Capitalizing on this positive press is already yielding long-term dividends for our city. We are demonstrating our value for tourists, residents, and business leaders. Economic Development Winnipeg is focused on putting our city front and center on a global stage. Message from Chair & CEO Winnipeg is on the world stage "Winnipeg is used to thinking of itself as a hidden gem, but we're not so hidden anymore. People are no longer asking where Winnipeg is; they're talking about all the things that are happening here."