The Dennis County Development Partnership (DCDP) has launched its new website, an important tool in the group’s mandate to attract investment to the region.
The website, www.investsouthwest.ca, introduces potential investors to the attributes of southwestern Manitoba and the reasons why they should consider establishing here.
Tanis Chalmers, EDO of the RM of Pipestone - a member of the DCDP along with Virden and the RM of Wallace-Woodworth - says the website has been in the works since last fall when the partnership began planning its strategy.
One of the key features of the site is its detailed inventory of 20+ commercial / industrial properties that are available to develop.
Liza Park, Manager of Economic Development for the Town of Virden, said, “We have a number of properties that are ready to purchase and develop on tomorrow. It’s also strategic to illustrate the future of the region. We are growing and our future plans anticipate that.”
Need to be found
The website plan got an extra nudge of urgency in January when consultants released a report that, among other things, highlighted the importance of branding and being “easily found” on the web.
The commissioned report by MDB Insight pointed out that, “Part of the barrier to greater recognition is the lack of a clear brand name. In web searches, ‘Dennis County’ is one of the least recognized terms.”
Chalmers says the arrival of the website is a significant achievement for the region and the DCDP.
“It not only showcases the opportunities within the region, but the partnership as well. It is a professional tool that we will utilize to sell the region as a place to do business.”
She says Invest Southwest is the first regional investment website of its kind in Manitoba. But it’s far from DCDP’s only outreach effort.
“A labour study has been completed along with marketing materials and banners to be used at marketing events,” says Chalmers.
“And this fall the DCDP plans to execute a Business Retention & Expansion program that will include business visitation from local Economic Development Managers and other staff.”
The Dennis County Development Partnership was formed in 2017 and includes representatives from all three of its member municipalities.
