Winnipeg gets ‘F’ grade for ease of doing business, but leaders insist progress
Posted September 15, 2026 5:39 pm.
Last Updated September 15, 2026 6:10 pm.
Winnipeg received a failing grade for ease of doing business in a new national report, however, local leaders say recent reforms may not be fully reflected in those results.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) gave Winnipeg 6.8 out of 10 for the cost of doing business, while for getting at permits, licences and how easy it is to deal with City Hall, the city scored just 2.5. Overall, Winnipeg received an F grade as it ranked 33rd out of 66 cities in the Canada’s 2026 Municipal Report Card.
“Ultimately the issue is predictability and complexity,” said Robin Bezte, senior policy analyst at CFIB. “Winnipeg has made progress online, but businesses still need fewer requirements, firm timelines, and a very clear way to resolve unnecessary red tape.”
The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce says those concerns are familiar, with businesses often frustrated by how much time and effort it can take to work through city processes.
“It’s the number one complaint I hear from business, is how difficult it can be to do business either in Winnipeg, or if your more in the provincial realm how difficult it is to set up shop,” said Loren Remillard, president and CEO of the business lobby group.
But the Chamber also says Winnipeg has made progress.
“There has been progress on digital permitting and processes and other sorts of things that help make it easier to do business,” Remillard said. “Are we done? Not by a long shot. There’s more work to be done, but we do want to give credit to the city that they have made great strides.”
Mayor Scott Gillingham was quick to make the same point.
“This is from this year, the CFIB awarded the city of Winnipeg,” Gillingham said pointing to the Golden Scissors award the city received from CFIB earlier this year for cutting red tape.
“It’s got my name and council’s name on it. Recognizing the fact that we have eliminated over 60 different permits, we have made significant progress in reducing red tape.”
CFIB says Winnipeg could see a better result next time as much of the report relies on information collected before the city’s implemented the reforms.
Remillard said while there is still work to do, businesses are continuing to invest in the city.
“I take a look at our downtown and see new buildings going up, renovations happening, yes there challenges and anyone who visits downtown knows that, but I also see the investment,” he added.
