Winnipeg, MB – Qualico was presented with the Spirit of Winnipeg Award at The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce’s 16^th Annual Spirit of Winnipeg Awards Gala, held on June 4.

Established in 2018, the Spirit of Winnipeg Award recognizes organizations in the private sector that demonstrate notable effort and commitment to make Winnipeg a better place to live and do business in, through corporate leadership and social responsibility.

Each year, The Chamber’s Board of Directors selects nominees and winners of the award using several criteria, including:

• History of community engagement and impact
• Leadership as an employer of choice
• Innovation in corporate social responsibility
• Contributions to Winnipeg’s economic growth and prosperity
• Industry leadership
• Demonstrated commitment to Truth & Reconciliation, diversity, equity and inclusivity
• Longstanding support of the local business community
• National and/or international recognition for excellence

Loren Remillard, President and CEO, The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, expressed his congratulations to Qualico for earning this year’s Spirit of Winnipeg Award.

“Your philanthropy, development of current and future talent, and operational innovations demonstrate your long-term commitment to building not just our city, but our community, and made your organization the standout choice,” he said. “On behalf of The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and our Board, thank you for helping lead the way to a prosperous, more vibrant Winnipeg.”

Mark Spearing, Chief Operating Officer, Qualico, accepted the Spirit of Winnipeg Award on Qualico’s behalf.

“Qualico is very honoured to be here today to accept the 2025 Spirit of Winnipeg Award,” he said during the acceptance speech. “On behalf of Ruth and Brian Hastings, Kevin Van and Lisa Hastings, I would like to thank The Chamber for selecting Qualico for this prestigious award.”

Mark also noted that despite the company’s significant growth, Qualico has stayed deeply rooted in Winnipeg and is passionate about giving back to the community where the company was founded. The company’s deep roots in the community reflect its long-standing to creating jobs, being a trusted employer, and acting as an important economic driver and infrastructure developer.

“Our motto, Helping Build Better Cities, is something we take very seriously,” Mark said, “and it guides us to develop vibrant communities that withstand the test of time and create a positive impact beyond our immediate business goals.”

Qualico’s corporate responsibility pillars have helped the company stand out and are woven into how the company operates. Qualico places a strong focus on building sustainably with environmentally responsible building practices, executing responsible management, and ensuring a community connection by supporting social programs.

Qualico’s community giving includes volunteering time, as well as sponsorships and donations for a wide range of organizations doing important work in Manitoba. Some examples include:

• Health Sciences Centre
• Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba
• Bruce Oake Recovery Centre
• Thrive Counselling
• Harvest Manitoba
• Habitat for Humanity and the Women Build program
• Assiniboine Park Conservancy
• Canadian Museum for Human Rights
• University of Manitoba, Bridge to Success Program
• Ka Ni Kanichihk
• Sport Manitoba

Most recently, Qualico announced a $1.25-million gift to RRC Polytech to support education and career development in the skilled trades for Indigenous learners and underrepresented groups.

Qualico is proud to have received the prestigious Spirit of Winnipeg Award, which has strengthened the company’s resolve to invest in the community.

“This recognition is a powerful reminder of the role Qualico plays in building a better future,” said Kevin Van, President and CEO, Qualico. “As leaders, we have the responsibility to give back, while balancing the need to operate a strong, profitable business. We are committed to maintaining the trust of our employees, partners, and community by continuing to take actions that make a positive impact in the cities we do business in.”