Media Release

Destination Winnipeg Returns to its Roots: Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. is Born

May 13, 2010: Winnipeg, MB – Following a comprehensive review, the organization is pleased to announce it will restructure under the original Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. name with a refined mandate and a new organizational framework.

"Reviving Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. presents greater potential to resonate with stakeholders, resulting in increased clarity in the marketplace," says Marina James, President and CEO, Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.

Although having a good reputation in the marketplace – the name Destination Winnipeg created some confusion as to what the organization was responsible for. Many thought Destination Winnipeg was solely responsible for tourism marketing or a travel agency, and associating it with economic development outside its local following was obscured.

"Through our research we found that a majority of Canadian economic development agencies used their purpose in their corporate identities," says James. "In analyzing corporate identities across the country, we found 92% of economic development agencies used Economic Development to characterize their corporate identity, while 83% of tourism agencies in those same jurisdictions used Tourism in their name to define their corporate identity."

By restructuring, Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. aligns itself with similar organizations in Canada. The revived name and new organizational structure places a more focused approach on the activities of its two main divisions, Economic Development and Tourism Winnipeg. Shared Services, including marketing, communications, research and finance, among other functions, will support the achievement of the divisional goals while ensuring the overall organizational needs are met and that all communication materials are on brand.

In addition to the organizational changes, a thorough mandate analysis was conducted as part of the review process. The redefined mandate also provides sustained efficiency throughout the organization and avoids duplication in services, while maintaining the economies of scale first realized when the two agencies merged in 2002.

"We are excited with the new direction the organization is taking in 2010," says Nick Logan, Chair of the Board. "Both the team and Board have fully embraced these changes and are eager to continue to promote the economic growth of Winnipeg and seize new opportunities for broader engagement with industry and stakeholders."

Over the next year and into 2011, Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. will move quickly to incorporate its new look and name. New logos and a rejuvenated website are in development and current collateral materials are under review.

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About Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.
Led by a private sector board, Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. is an arm’s-length organization focused on economic development and tourism development. Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. is strategically focused on being a leader in stimulating economic growth for the city of Winnipeg.

For further information contact:

Julia Adams
Manager, Communications & Media Relations
Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.
P: 204.954.1977, C: 204.294.1752
julia@ecomicdevlopmenwinnipeg.com

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Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada R3B 0X3

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