January 19, 2018
Province Announces Funding for Community Development Projects
The Manitoba government will be providing more than $1.4 million in grants to projects for non-profit and community-led organizations, community-driven neighbourhood revitalization and local community development projects, Municipal Relations Minister Jeff Wharton announced today.
“Our government will continue to provide support to projects that have long-term benefits to Manitoba communities,” said Wharton. “By partnering with municipalities and community groups and addressing local capital, planning and programming needs, we are building sustainable communities that will improve the lives of Manitobans.”
This funding is in addition to the $2.6 million previously announced for community development programs last December. In fact, in 2017-18 the province has committed more than $20 million to support community development, the minister noted.
“Investments in the projects being announced today will help municipalities succeed,” said Chris Goertzen, President, Association of Manitoba Municipalities. “Dollars put toward economic development go beyond bricks and mortar projects. They help build capacity, by ensuring the training and tools are in place to help communities attract further investments and thrive in today’s competitive environment.”
Three applicants were approved for projects through the Partner 4 Growth program, which provides cost-shared funding for regions to identify and pursue economic development opportunities, and assist communities to strengthen or diversify economic activity.
Seven communities were approved through the Community Planning Assistance Program, which provides grants to planning districts and municipalities to assist with preparing land-use bylaws and policies. Funds available through the program help to pay the costs of hiring a qualified planning consultant to research and prepare planning documents.
A total of 27 additional planning and economic development, programming and capital projects were also approved across the province. Following consultations last year, the Manitoba government revamped its community development programs and created a single portal for application intakes and assessments. This new process has allowed for better planning and outcomes, which help to sustain efforts in community revitalization, the minister noted.
More information on the programs above and other grant programs offered by the provincial government can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/mr/index.html.
- 30 -
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED
Backgrounder
Backgrounder - https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/newslinks/2018/01/BG-Strategic_Projects-MR.pdf