It was a night to remember inside the Southeast Events Centre in Steinbach as the 9th Annual Manitoba Economic Development Awards handed out provincial honours for outstanding community growth projects and leadership.
The event was hosted by the Economic Developers Association of Manitoba (EDAM), on June 5 during EDAM’s annual forum, recognizing standout efforts in economic development across four categories: Rising Star, Project of the Year (Under and Over $100,000), and the Award of Distinction.
Two communities in particular, the RM of Hanover and the RM of Taché, took home major wins and are celebrating not just the hardware but the hard work behind it.
Hanover Takes Top Project Prize for Industrial Park
The RM of Hanover earned the Project of the Year Award (Over $100,000) for its 12-lot Light Industrial Park in Mitchell.
The project, led by the Hanover Commercial Development Corporation (HCDC), helped move light industrial businesses out of residential areas into a well-planned, dedicated space, a long-term vision that started more than a decade ago.
Councillor Brian Esau was quick to share that it was their previous council and administration who started this vision. People like former Reeve Stan Toews, CAO Luc Lahaie, and Rob Driedger were instrumental in getting it off the ground.
The park was such a hit that Phase One sold out quickly, followed by a second phase that also filled up fast.
“It’s been very positive,” Esau added. “Businesses now have a place where they can rent a bay, start small, and expand when they’re ready. That’s a win for everyone, for local entrepreneurs, and for residents who want quieter neighbourhoods.”
With that success, Hanover is now planning a similar industrial park in New Bothwell.
Taché’s Martha Petrusevich Named Rising Star
The Rising Star Award went to Martha Petrusevich, Economic Development Officer for the RM of Taché, who’s been making big waves in just a few short years on the job.
“It was huge,” Petrusevich said of receiving the award. “It made me really proud, and proud of the amazing support system I have here. I had two full tables cheering me on. Council, staff, the Tache CDC board, they all believe in the work I do.”
Petrusevich has been a driving force behind securing funding for major infrastructure upgrades, improving drainage in flood-prone areas, planning for more housing, and even launching a farmers market at Centre of Canada Park.
“I apply for funding for everything from bridges to sewer upgrades,” she said. “We’ve gotten provincial and federal dollars without needing municipal contributions, which means residents see real improvements without extra tax burdens.”
She’s also leading business outreach efforts like business breakfasts and education for local developers to keep projects on track.
Her work has helped position Taché as a community focused not just on growth, but on smart, sustainable development.
Other 2025 EDAM Winners
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Project of the Year (Under $100,000): Cranberry Portage Artisan Market
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Award of Distinction: Marilyn Crewe, Town of Neepawa
Nominees across all categories reflected the diversity and creativity of economic development happening throughout Manitoba – from snowmobile tourism and driver training programs to rebranding campaigns and downtown revitalization.
But for communities like Hanover and Taché, the recognition is more than just a plaque; it’s a celebration of years of planning, partnerships, and people-first progress.