NFI Group was recognized at an annual business awards ceremony Friday as containing Winnipeg’s spirit.
The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce held the aptly-titled Spirit of Winnipeg Awards, in its 15th year. NFL took home the eponymous Spirit of Winnipeg Award.
“When you take a look at (NFI) — their story, where they come from, where they are today and where they’re going — it is, in so many ways, a story of Winnipeg,” said Loren Remillard, chamber president.
The company built itself as an international bus manufacturer and is now focusing on the green economy. Manitoba, too, is shifting its eyes to the green sector, Remillard stated.
NFI is a resilient company, both Remillard and Stephen King, NFI vice-president of strategy and investor relations, noted.
NFI’s revenue took a nosedive during the COVID-19 pandemic; it now has the largest backlog of orders it’s ever experienced: almost $12 billion, King relayed.
The company — which has nearly 3,000 employees in Manitoba — aims to reach $3.4 billion in revenue this year and $4 billion in 2025.
“I think this is really a testament, this award, to the can-do spirit of our people, that we’ve persevered through those painful few years,” King said.
Eight other organizations received awards:
— Winnipeg Sea Bears; Rising Star Award: The Canadian Elite Basketball League franchise joined the fledgling league in 2023;
— Assiniboine Park Conservancy; Design and Building Award: The non-profit oversees Assiniboine Park, Winnipeg’s zoo and the Leaf horticultural attraction;
— The Forks North Portage Partnership; Environment and Energy Award: The governing body encourages activities at The Forks and North Portage.
— Toba Centre for Children & Youth; Non-profit and Social Enterprise Award: Formerly Snowflake Place, Toba is a place for children impacted by or witnessing abuse to meet with service providers and forensic interviewers;
— Build Inc.; Workplace Culture Award: The Indigenous social enterprise organization trains people facing barriers for construction work;
— Optimus Gear; Trade Award: The Grande Pointe protective gear manufacturer specializes in vehicle seat covers and dog harnesses, among other products;
— QDoc Inc.; Technology Award: QDoc is a virtual health-care service available 24-7;
— North Forge Technology Exchange; CODE Award: The Winnipeg-based incubator accelerates funding Manitoba science, technology and manufacturing start-ups.
