The third annual Developers Day rolled out last week, and with it came renewed enthusiasm for the future of Portage la Prairie and the surrounding region.
Hosted at Southport’s brand-new Peggy May Legacy Centre, the day brought together local leaders, developers, business owners, and guests from across the province to explore the exciting developments already underway and the possibilities just over the horizon.
About 40 attendees took part in the event, which was organized by Portage Regional Economic Development (PRED) in partnership with Southport, the City of Portage la Prairie, and the RM of Portage la Prairie. With a mix of tours, talks, and hands-on networking, the day aimed to showcase investment opportunities and strengthen the collaborative spirit that’s become a hallmark of the region’s growth.
A shared vision
“Developers Day exists to highlight the excellent opportunities here for residential and commercial development,” says Callie McArthur, Tourism and Marketing Coordinator with PRED, who MCed the event. “This is more than projects on paper, it’s about collaboration, vision, and the partnerships that make growth possible.”
That sense of regional cooperation was a running theme throughout the day, especially in remarks from local officials.
Eve O’Leary, PRED’s Director of Economic Development, opened the event with an overview of current and upcoming projects, and how the region’s joint approach is making an impact.
“The Region of Portage la Prairie is a place of choice for investors. That’s because of the strong collaboration between the City and RM, and the proactive approach we’ve taken to economic development," O’Leary notes.
Mayor Sharilyn Knox spoke about how these kinds of gatherings help drive real progress.
“By bringing people together, developers, investors, and our own community leaders, we start conversations that spark ideas and open doors. Growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens through relationships. This gives us the chance to share our story, learn from one another, and imagine what’s possible for Portage la Prairie when we work together," Knox explains.
Roy Tufford, Reeve of the RM of Portage la Prairie, echoed that message, celebrating both the event and the momentum it represents.
“Three years in, and Developers Day just keeps getting better! It’s exciting to see so many people come together to talk about the future of the RM of Portage la Prairie and our neighbouring communities. We’re creating opportunities that go beyond borders, and that’s a win for everyone.”
Connecting the dots
The day started with a fun twist on traditional networking: Speed Networking Bingo, a lively way for attendees to meet and connect. Then it was all aboard the Portage Terriers team bus for a regional tour, with stops at Southport, Island Park, and several key development zones throughout the city and RM.
Along the way, a range of guest speakers shared updates on major initiatives and investment opportunities.
Clinton Richard Pashe, Economic Development Officer for Dakota Tipi First Nation, spoke about the upcoming Kenmare Development in downtown Portage. Ralph Francis shared insights into projects tied to Long Plain First Nation, Keeshkeemaquah, and Arrowhead Development Corporation.
Other presenters included representatives from Community Futures, the Portage Chamber of Commerce, and municipal economic development staff. Updates covered a variety of growth areas, including the McMillan Industrial Park and Poplar Bluff Industrial Park.
Steady growth and strong interest
For Grant Gessell, General Manager of the Portage Planning District, the event was another sign that the region is on the radar of developers looking to invest.
“There was some great discussion and interest from people looking at developing in the area,” Gessell says. “Looking ahead to 2026 and 2027, we’re expecting some bigger projects, whether that will include industrial, housing, or other private business developments.”
Gessell also noted that progress continues on several fronts, including the new Portage hospital, which is entering its final inspection phase, as well as multiple apartment complexes nearing occupancy.
“We’re definitely busy, but it’s the good kind of busy because it means progress.”
Looking ahead, together
As the day came to a close, informal networking and conversations continued long after the last presentation wrapped, a clear sign that the connections made throughout the day are already paving the way for future partnerships.
“I have to say, Developers Day in Portage la Prairie was a smashing success,” Candice Dyck, Business Development Manager with Three Way Builders, says. “Honestly, without this event, I might have missed the momentum altogether.”
For PRED, Southport, and local governments, that kind of feedback is exactly what they’re hoping for.
“A lot is happening, and there's a lot more to come,” Gessell adds. “Events like this remind us that we’re not just waiting for things to happen, but we’re making them happen, together.”
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