Federal government invests more than $3.1M in Manitoba mining, jobs and mfg.

An image of people socializing in a large room at a conference, with text “Over $3.1M to accelerate Indigenous economic reconciliation and critical mineral development in Manitoba” (CNW Group/Prairies Economic Development Canada)

NORWAY HOUSE — Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced a federal investment of more than $3.1 million for seven projects to support key organizations and Indigenous communities. This support will try to increase economic and business development opportunities that drive new areas of job creation, improve the resilience of the workforce, and empower Indigenous economic leadership.

Funding for these investments is provided through the Strategic Partnerships Initiative that supports the Manitoba Indigenous Critical Minerals Partnerships Initiative – created to further support Indigenous communities to engage with, respond to, and benefit from mineral development and exploration opportunities based on their community plans and priorities.

Critical minerals support three primary value chains across Canada — Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Technologies, and Information and Communications Technologies.

Examples of projects receiving support include:

• Norway House Cree Nation, is receiving $300,000 to complete a business plan and deliver training programs that support sector opportunities and partnerships.
• Marcel Colomb First Nation is receiving $387,957 to support the development and delivery of a Workforce Readiness Program to community members.
• The Communities Economic Development Fund is receiving $265,000 to establish and expand community economic development corporations and support Indigenous participation in the sector through business and professional development opportunities.

“Critical minerals are key to a green energy transition for Canada and the world. These strategic investments support a green Prairie economy. I am pleased that PrairiesCan is actively working with Indigenous communities to participate and partner on mineral development opportunities. Through these projects, Manitoba will be well-positioned to accelerate economic reconciliation and critical mineral development,” said Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan.

“The need for skills throughout the north, in communities, in industry, and all other sectors is critical. This program is an important first step in ensuring northern people have access to high quality, relevant training that will help communities realize their aspirations of progress and prosperity. UCN thanks PrairiesCan for the continued commitment to northern Manitoba,” said Doug Lauvstad, President, University College of the North.