November 20, 2015
Province Announces Funding Levels for Economic Development Grant Program Increased
– – –Growth, Innovation Drive Prosperity: Minister Kostyshyn
The Manitoba government’s Partner 4 Growth program, which issues economic development grants to communities throughout the province, will increase its funding to $400,000, Agriculture, Food, and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.
“We have seen the good work this program has allowed so many Manitoba communities to accomplish,” said Minister Kostyshyn. “By increasing the available funds, we hope to see continued growth and innovative ideas that will contribute to economic prosperity in rural Manitoba.”
Partner 4 Growth provides funding to pursue rural economic development opportunities based on regional strategic advantages. The program is in its third year and originally launched with $130,000 in funding. For the past two years, $260,000 has been available annually for applicants projects and an increase of $140,000 for the programs fourth year will allow the program to support even more projects, the minister noted.
Examples of projects funded in the past include:
- providing training opportunities in manufacturing for First Nation people through the Arborg Bifrost Community Development Corporation;
- conducting a business development study for the municipalities of Hanover and Richot;
- conducting a feasibility study to bring broadband internet to the town of Erickson;
- developing a regional tourism strategy for the rural municipalities of Piney and Stuartburn; and
- co-ordinating a regional survey to determine economic opportunities for Thompson.
Grants up to $10,000, increased from $8,000, will be provided to assist communities and regions to strengthen or diversify development projects and undertake feasibility studies. Grants up to $25,000, increased from $15,000, will be provided to complete projects having a positive impact on the region. Eligible projects must be regionally focused and involve more than one local government geographic area.
Grants are cost-shared on a 50-50 basis. Along with the increase in funding, program eligibility requirements have been broadened. Amalgamated rural municipalities are also now able to be sole applicants for program funding.
“Partner 4 Growth has supported many important regional projects, creating lasting benefits as rural communities work together,” said Chris Goertzen, president, Association of Manitoba Municipalities. “The change in eligibility criteria for amalgamated municipalities reflects the flexibility required for a number of our members who work tirelessly to grow their communities.”
Now in its third year, Partner 4 Growth has distributed $390,000 in funding for 47 projects in Manitoba communities. More information about the program is available at the nearest GO office or online at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/rural-communities/economic-development/partner-4-growth.html.
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