Business of the Year – Large

Activate is redefining entertainment with its innovative, tech-driven gaming experiences that blend physical activity, immersive challenges and endless replayability. As a top-rated attraction on Google and TripAdvisor, its Winnipeg locations draw thousands of guests each month.

Winnipeg serves as the operational heart of Activate’s global success. Activate University is the company’s centralized training hub welcoming trainees from across North America and beyond, bringing a steady stream of business visitors who support local accommodations, restaurants and services. This international reach strengthens Manitoba’s business reputation as a hub for innovation and contributes to the province’s growing business tourism sector.

With over 30 locations across North America, Europe and the Middle East, Activate’s rapid expansion is powered by cutting-edge product development—all designed, built and tested in Winnipeg before being deployed worldwide. This relentless innovation has positioned Activate as a global leader in interactive entertainment while continuing to elevate Manitoba’s presence on the international stage.

Asessippi Ski Area & Resort is the largest ski resort on the prairies, offering 200 acres of skiable terrain, 26 runs and an FIS-rated Alpine ski race venue that attracts athletes and skiing enthusiasts. Professionally built jumps by Arena and LED-lit night skiing provide a premier experience, drawing more than 60,000 visitors annually, including 14,000 school-aged children.

Nestled in Asessippi Provincial Park, the resort is a major tourism driver to the region. Its impact extends beyond winter, hosting more than 24 weddings in 2024 in picturesque surroundings like the vine chapel. National exposure on The Amazing Race Canada and CBC’s Canada Live! Countdown 2025 showcased Manitoba’s breathtaking landscapes to millions.

With high visitor ratings and a reputation for exceptional service, Asessippi continues to elevate Manitoba’s tourism industry. Whether on the slopes or celebrating special moments, guests return year after year for its welcoming atmosphere, a testament to its great visitor experience.

For more than 30 years, Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites has been a leader in hospitality, blending exceptional service with deep community engagement. A proud partner of Red River College Polytechnic, the Manitoba Tourism Education Council and the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology, the hotel provides hands-on training that helps shape the next generation of hospitality professionals, many of whom become key team members.

Beyond its proud commitment to guests, Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites gives back to the community through initiatives supporting Habitat for Humanity, Manitoba Harvest, Kids Help Phone and more. Through Oak & Grain Restaurant, proceeds from sales of Manitoba pickerel, soup and bannock support Indigenous programs, reinforcing a commitment to reconciliation.

The hotel also fosters a strong workplace culture with recognition programs, employee celebrations and a commitment to professional growth. More than just a place to stay, Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites is a cornerstone of the airport community, making a lasting impact on guests and the city alike.

Interlake Brewing Co. is the latest must-visit spot in Gimli. The beautifully renovated building with a massive rooftop patio is both a gathering place and destination with weekly live music, trivia, pop-up guest chefs and stand-up comedy.

Whether welcoming visitors to the patio in summer or delivering food straight to ice shacks on Lake Winnipeg in winter, Interlake Brewing boosts Gimli’s service and tourism industry with a new offering. The brewery’s high-quality, locally crafted beer features unique and often locally-sourced ingredients like wild rice, rhubarb and Earl Grey tea, while the menu offers classics like fresh local beer-battered fish and chips to more elevated dishes.

Interlake Brewing is deeply rooted in the community, supporting local fundraisers and sponsorships with a mission of inclusivity. Looking ahead, 2025 will bring an expansion with a retail store, merchandise, snacks and seasonal essentials like minnows and fishing gear for both locals and visitors. This thriving brewery is not just a place to grab a pint—it’s helping shape the future of Gimli.

In the heart of historic St. Boniface, Kilter Brewing Company has become a vibrant and welcoming hub for locals and tourists alike. Since finding a location of its own and opening its doors in 2020, Kilter has hosted a wide array of events that connect with the community and attract visitors. From trivia and comedy nights to Beer and Yoga sessions, seasonal guided tours like Snowshoes and Brews, the flagship Kilterpalooza event featuring live music and a local vendor market and Jeudi Franco Thursdays, Kilter brings people together.

Kilter’s dedication to community engagement and inclusivity is embedded in its code of conduct. Employees receive bystander intervention training and access to a database of diversity and inclusion training in partnership with the Canadian Diversity Initiative. Support for this warm and inviting atmosphere is reflected in the tropical-inspired space that welcomed more than 76,000 guests in 2024 for more than 150 different private and semi-private events.

Natural Habitat Adventures' effort to grow the northern lights season in Churchill has delivered great results. Since 2019, Natural Habitat Adventures has nearly doubled the northern lights season and is projected to triple the number of visitors to Churchill with even more growth on the horizon. Collaborating with local suppliers and organizations like The Fort Garry Hotel in Winnipeg as well as Great White Bear Tours and Wapusk Adventures in Churchill helps to grow tourism throughout Manitoba while delivering immersive natural and cultural experiences.

Dedicated to service excellence and conservation, its Expedition Leaders average 15 years of experience and receive additional training from World Wildlife Federation’s top scientists. Natural Habitat Adventures is committed to supporting Churchill and gives back to the community through local breakfast programs, Thanksgiving suppers and recycling efforts.