Rural municipalities are essential to Manitoba’s economic future. To support their continued growth, Rural Manitoba Economic Development (RMED) is hosting the third Connection Zone, a regional series of gatherings focused on collaboration, shared learning, and practical solutions.
The Connection Zone provides an opportunity for municipalities to come together, share best practices, discuss local challenges, and explore opportunities for regional collaboration. These events are designed to build stronger ties among municipalities, encourage cross-sector partnerships, and encourage a deeper understanding of the diverse needs and priorities within rural and urban communities across the province.
Now in its third year, the Connection Zone continues to bring together municipal officials, Indigenous communities, economic development professionals, and provincial partners to focus on actionable strategies for rural advancement.
The 2025 theme, “Empowering Rural Municipalities in Manitoba,” reflects RMED’s commitment to equipping communities south of the 53rd parallel with the tools, insights, and partnerships needed to move forward.
Connection Zone sessions are designed to deliver practical value for rural leaders. This year’s events will feature presentations from key provincial partners and development stakeholders who are actively shaping Manitoba’s infrastructure and economic landscape.
Confirmed presenters for 2025 include:
- Manitoba Hydro – Economic Development
- Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation
- Manitoba Water Services Board
- Rural Manitoba Housing Alliance
- RMED’s Economic Development Advisors and Resource Team
With a mix of expert input and interactive dialogue, attendees will walk away with practical tools and a better understanding of how to address infrastructure needs, and long-term planning.
2025 Event Schedule
This year’s Connection Zone events will take place in four communities:
- Dauphin
May 22 – Watson Art Centre, 104 1 Ave NW
- Killarney (Municipality of Killarney–Turtle Mountain)
May 26 – Shamrock Centre (Elks Lounge), 725 Broadway Avenue
- Stonewall
May 27 – Stonewall Arena Veteran Memorial Sports Complex, 550 Main Street
- Landmark (RM of Taché)
May 28 – Landmark Kinsmen Community Centre, 191 Robert Koop Road
Each session follows a consistent structure that encourages discussion, learning, and cross-regional engagement.
What to Expect
- Presentations from provincial agencies and RMED staff
- A panel discussion on building rural resilience
- Interactive sessions to share local perspectives and explore partnerships.
- Networking opportunities with municipal leaders and sector partners
Who Should Attend
These events are ideal for municipal leaders, economic development officers, community planners, other professionals and businesses involved in rural and regional development. If you are working to strengthen your community and want to connect with others doing the same, Connection Zone is for you.
Register Now
Join us for the third year of Connection Zone and be part of the conversation shaping Manitoba’s rural future.
RSVP here: https://forms.office.com/r/KgNPtFc55b
Learn more: rmedcorp.ca