E ven after a visit from Prince Charles during his trip to Winnipeg last May, Innovation Alley remains an unassuming district downtown. Nestled between Red River College’s Roblin Centre campus and the United Way of Winnipeg, Innovation Alley includes a hub of start-up companies, a makerspace, co-working facilities, and a vibrant post-secondary institution. It is where “ideas come to happen.” Entrepreneurs can test ideas or concepts, prototype and find encouragement in a supportive community. AssentWorks is a volunteer-driven makerspace equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and various metal and woodworking tools. But the key ingredient is the people who cross-pollinate ideas and expertise. AssentWorks founder and current Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce chair Michael Legary says Winnipeg is at a critical juncture. “Creativity and entrepreneurship will make the difference for the future of our economy. Being known as a hotbed for ideas will not only attract the next generation of leaders but help to create them while keeping our long- standing businesses vibrant.” It is estimated that one street in Innovation Alley has created $100 million in WHERE HUSTLERS, HACKERS AND HIPSTERS UNITE
Entrepreneur Nick Danzinger, founder of cell phone-cover maker DigiPlus, shows off his wares. Photo by Darcy Finley
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22 MBiz | November 2014
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