Numerous articles and studies have remarked on the incredible residential growth Niverville and the surrounding area has experienced over the past decade. The most recent census data indicates that the town grew an astonishing 43.7 percent between surveys. The growth is especially evident when looking at the expansion of local schools, recreation programs, and the number of new homes being built on an annual basis.
Niverville is on the cusp of reaching 5,000 residents, and when we include the surrounding catchment area the population comes in at approximately 10,000 people. If growth continues at its current pace, the community is poised to become the next official city in the province of Manitoba, when the population hits 7,500.
The Regional Economic Analysis Process (REAP) Report, completed by the province of Manitoba for Niverville and the Municipality of Ritchot in August 2014, highlights some interesting facts. Not only is this region one of the fastest growing, it is also one of the youngest and highest-earning in the province. These are the types of figures and trends that will grab the attention of businesspeople and entrepreneurs looking for expansion opportunities, including national chains.
There are many reasons for businesses to consider opening up shop or relocating to Niverville. From an occupancy cost standpoint, commercial land and lease rates will typically be lower here than in Winnipeg. Regarding resources, Niverville boasts one of the youngest populations in the province with an average age of 31 as per the most recent census.
The community also has a high number of households with double incomes, and many of these families would relish the opportunity to have at least one member of the household work locally to save on commuting costs and remain nearby where their children go to school. This results in a strong demand for local jobs and a highly skilled pool of candidates who will not require as hefty a salary as is needed in the Winnipeg market.
Chamber of Commerce President Mel Buhler says that the Chamber is actively and regularly engaging town council. “Our main focus is what we can do for Niverville businesses, the already existing businesses, and also see what are the needs that are missing from the community, to encourage new business coming in. And then to work also with council.”
Buhler says that the Chamber also holds quarterly strategic planning meetings with its membership. “We’ve got some brilliant people out there who have great ideas,” he says.
For this article, we have extracted several graphs from the REAP report. However, the full report can be viewed at the link below.