June 4, 2014
Province Supports Jobs, Growth Through Partnership with Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters - Manitoba Division
– – –Unique Initiative Focused on Lean Training, Technological Innovation, Trade, Promoting Youth Careers in Manufacturing: Minister Oswald
The province will invest $1.1 million to support jobs and growth in Manitoba’s manufacturing sector, building on its successful partnership with the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters ,,Ÿ Manitoba Division (CME), Jobs and the Economy Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
“We are working with manufacturing companies to improve Manitoba’s competitiveness,” said Minister Oswald. “Together, we will support and create good jobs in manufacturing so that young Manitobans can build their futures here at home.”
The CME Centre for Strategic Innovation will use proven methods and techniques to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of Manitoba manufacturers, Minister Oswald said, adding Manitoba’s investment of $553,500 per year over the next two years will support activities such as:
- promoting best-practice lean production techniques through training staff at Manitoba manufacturers and sharing best practices,
- delivering Career Discovery events to connect youth to manufacturing careers in Manitoba,
- supporting small and medium-sized businesses with technology and innovation, and
- helping Manitoba companies develop export markets.
“The ongoing support we receive and the relationship we have with the province is really unique compared to other provinces. This partnership allows CME to continue to assist Manitoba companies in becoming world class with the ability to compete globally, grow their business and create jobs here in Manitoba,” said Ron Koslowsky, vice-president, CME.
Minister Oswald applauded CME and Manitoba manufacturers for their outstanding success and noted this renewed partnership builds on successful past partnerships with the CME ,,Ÿ the Advanced Manufacturing Initiative (2004 to 2008) and the Virtual Centre of Manufacturing Excellence program (2009 to 2013). As the first province to develop such partnerships with the CME, Manitoba has supported these initiatives with $3.45 million since 2004.
Manufacturing is a key driver of the provincial economy, accounting for approximately 11 per cent of Manitoba’s real gross domestic product, more than $7 billion in exported goods, and more than 60,000 jobs in 2013.
CME is a national association promoting the competitiveness and success of Canadian manufacturers and exporters in global markets. CME serves its members through advocacy, intelligence, networking, training and human resources, lean manufacturing, innovation and technology, and trade and business development initiatives.
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