February 18, 2022
Province Announces up to $2 Million to Support Development of Newcomer Community Support Projects
– – –Projects to Attract, Retain Newcomers, Support Community Integration: Reyes
The Manitoba government is seeking applications for the development and delivery of newcomer community support projects to help newcomers succeed while supporting Manitoba’s economic recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration Minister Jon Reyes announced today.
“Attracting and retaining new immigrants is key to Manitoba’s post-pandemic economic recovery, and will help address skills shortages and bring in international talent and investment,” said Reyes. “The projects will help support newcomers as they settle into the community and as they become ready to join Manitoba’s labour market.”
An open call for applications has been issued for $2 million in funding for projects that support developing community connection projects for newcomers. This will facilitate building a network of support and a community of care to better assist newcomers as they integrate in Manitoba. Additionally, projects should empower newcomers to find jobs best suited for their skills and aid in the development of professional networks.
Projects must also align with the goals of Manitoba’s Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy to ensure newcomers are able to participate fully in the community and contribute to a growing economy. Organizations eligible to apply will include:
- service provider organizations offering services for newcomers;
- established non-profit organizations, community groups, registered companies; and
- direct service/program providers.
The minister noted the investment builds on the recent announcement of a new Immigration Advisory Council. Work is already underway to build the council, which will serve as an expert panel to recommend improvements to current immigration policies and programs.
“We need to keep making investments in immigration programming while the new Immigration Advisory Council is being created. This will also help us implement Manitoba’s Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy, which includes a focus on attracting and retaining skilled workers, business investors and international students, and ensuring newcomers can work in their regulated profession,” said Reyes. “At the same time, we will continue to advocate with the federal government to expand supports for all newcomers and to improve processing times to help build our economy.”
The province will accept applications until March 7, Applications can be submitted at: www.immigratemanitoba.com.
For more information on Manitoba’s Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/mbskills/index.html.
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