Owner Tanis Thomas Business Name Boreal Workshop Background story Boreal Workshop is an Indigenous family business on the edge of the Canadian Shield in eastern Manitoba. Tanis, a self-taught Maskéko / Anishinaabe / Métis artist, and her partner, a GIAtrained goldsmith and gem cutter, handcraft fine jewelry shaped by land and culture. Why it matters Two traditions, one workshop, and jewelry that carries meaning as deliberately as it carries stones.
Owner Georgia Ghana Leslie Business Name Mushroom Manna Series Inc. Background story Georgia Leslie founded Mushroom Manna Series Inc. to bring high-quality gourmet mushrooms and wellness products to Manitoba. With guidance through WeMB advisory services, she continues growing a purpose-driven business rooted in sustainability, nutrition and innovation while creating meaningful impact in her rural community.
Why it matters Georgia champions rural innovation by promoting sustainable wellness products and strengthening Manitoba’ s local food economy.
Owner Sunita & Avinash Nagpal Business Name Sizzling Dhaba Background story Opened with help from a WeMB loan over a decade ago, Sizzling Dhaba is a family-owned Winnipeg restaurant serving authentic East Indian cuisine, from butter chicken and biryani to vindaloo and korma, with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and halal options. Why it matters Authentic East Indian cooking, family-run and made fresh, rich, complex flavours every Winnipeg palate deserves.
Owner Olga Shmelova Business Name SWEETGRASS Institute Background story Founded by psychotherapist and mental health leader Olga Shmelova, SWEETGRASS Institute brings together counsellors, trauma therapists and family specialists. Drawing on clinical expertise, lived experience and systems thinking, the multidisciplinary team supports meaningful, lasting change across Winnipeg and Manitoba communities. Why it matters Trauma, addiction, and family care under one Winnipeg roof— no referral maze required.