WTEC Grand Opening: A Milestone for Indigenous Entrepreneurship in Manitoba
On October 27, we had the pleasure of celebrating the Grand Opening of the Wiitahnookiinitaw Tahshkayzing Entrepreneurship Centre (WTEC)!
The Honourable Premier Wab Kinew and CEO Kathleen Bluesky joined a full house to celebrate this important milestone for Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development.
During her remarks, Kathleen Bluesky spoke about the importance of self-determination and how entrepreneurship creates opportunities for Indigenous peoples to make their own decisions, pursue their ambitions, and shape their futures.
She also shared a powerful message about approaching economic development from a place of strength rather than focusing on what our communities lack. Our knowledge, relationships, cultural identities, and determination are foundations we can continue to build upon.
WTEC represents an important investment in that vision, bringing together access to capital, business networks, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support in a space that recognizes the importance of culture, community, and connection.
Kathleen also reminded attendees that the success of spaces like WTEC should not simply be measured by the buildings we create, but by the Indigenous entrepreneurs who have the opportunity to grow, succeed, and make those spaces their own.
The Indigenous Chamber of Commerce congratulates the WTEC team on this exciting milestone!
- Chase Ducharme, Program Manager
- Eric Lavoie, Assistant Program Manager
- Jasmine Seymour, Project Manager
- Marty McLean, Marketing Manager
- Lisa Chartrand, Office Manager
We look forward to seeing the opportunities, businesses, and partnerships that will grow through this centre and celebrating the continued success of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Treaty One Nations and Manitoba.
Congratulations to everyone who helped bring this vision to life!