"Awards like this make you pause."
That's the initial thought shared by Valley Fiber in a statement submitted to PembinaValleyOnline after it was announced that the company would be receiving one of the Future Champion awards being handed out by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce this year.
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"And if we’re honest, there hasn’t been much time for pausing—or reflecting—in our schedules. But this recognition gives us that moment, and we are honoured to receive the Future Champion award," continued the statement.
Humble beginnings
From humble beginnings starting as VISP in Altona, then launching Valley Fiber in Winkler, the founders had a dream - to bring the fourth utility, broadband, to the Pembina Valley.
"We never imagined that dream would grow into a $300 million investment in rural Manitoba."
Starting with a 10-person team, Valley Fiber now employs over 300 people and has expanded its high-speed fiber services from 5 to 175 communities. The company has also been recognized as the fastest gaming ISP in Manitoba. It has built a Tier 3 data centre serving local, national, and international clients.
And then the pandemic hit, and the company says it saw firsthand the difference connectivity can make.
"We helped families stay connected. Teachers reach their students. Businesses stay afloat and adapt. Real social and economic innovation—born from need, made possible by fiber."
"The Future Champion award celebrates those whose leadership, innovation, and passion are shaping the Manitoba of tomorrow—game changers, risk takers, bold thinkers. We’re proud to be counted among them."
"We’re grateful to our incredible staff. To our investors. To the municipal councils who saw the vision. To our partners at DIF. Of course, our customers. And to the many others who stood with us.
We often remind ourselves: the infrastructure we’re building will outlive us. That’s legacy. And it’s a direct result of the commitment and hard work of our entire team."
Staying grounded
In the midst of this staggering growth, the company remain grounded in its roots - to bring a better service to families, friends, neighbours, and local businesses - a mission still drives it today.
"Our purpose is clear: to connect people and improve lives through industry-leading technology. Being named a Future Champion is a testament to the impact of that mission—and the values we live by integrity, excellence, and care for our communities.
This recognition reflects our unwavering belief that great businesses—and great futures—can grow from even the smallest communities.
Finally, we extend heartfelt congratulations to the other Future Champion recipients. Many of you, like us, are rooted in rural Manitoba and are helping shape a more connected, resilient future. We’re proud to stand alongside you."
Congratulations
Meantime, Doug Eidse, President of the Winkler Chamber of Commerce, offered up his congratulations to Valley Fiber.
"They're a fantastic business in the community. They regularly help support local initiatives," he said.
"Valley Fiber is providing a fast internet with great service, but they are also creating opportunities for the next generation and helping keep that talent in the community. Our local communities are working together and sharing resources more than ever, and Valley Fiber is a huge contributor to helping build strong, connected communities across the Pembina Valley."
With files from Robyn Wiebe