May 9, 2022
Manitoba Government Supports Northern Economic Development Through the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund
Twelve projects will receive $1.6 million in funding through the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF), which is managed by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Scott Fielding announced today.
“Our government is committed to attracting new investment in Manitoba’s mining sector and increasing Indigenous participation in mineral development activities,” said Fielding. “The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce has worked collaboratively with local communities and industry over the last three years to support vital initiatives that create employment, stimulate investment and strengthen communities.”
In the first quarter of 2022, the MMDF’s application review committee conditionally approved $1.6 million in funding to support exploration activities, drill programs, business renovation and start-up costs, equipment and training investments, renewable energy projects and community consultations including:
- $66,205 to Elm Street Redevelopment;
- $300,000 to Paskwayak Business Development Corporation;
- $157,500 to Snow Lake Lithium;
- $17,500 to 7268425 Manitoba Ltd;
- $30,000 to Community Futures North Central Development;
- $74,319 to Sayisi Dene First Nation;
- $25,000 to the Northern Manitoba Sector Council;
- $300,000 to KG Exploration;
- $275,000 to Wolfden Resources Corporation;
- $22,500 to The Pas Community Development;
- $300,000 to Willeson Metals; and
- $69,700 to Community Futures Manitoba.
The Manitoba government established the MMDF in 2019 with an initial investment of $20 million to provide funding for economic development and mining projects in northern Manitoba and mineral development-related projects throughout the province. Each year, six per cent of tax revenue collected from the Mining Tax Act is allocated to the fund.
“We are pleased with the success that MMDF has experienced since its inception in creating jobs and economic opportunities in Northern Manitoba,” said Chuck Davidson, president and CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and chair of the MMDF board of directors.
The minister noted the MMDF aligns with the Look North Report and Action Plan, which identifies mineral development as a critical long-term priority for northern Manitoba and a key part of the province’s overall economic development framework.
“We are looking forward to our continued partnership with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to support responsible mineral exploration and mining activities that benefit our economy and local communities, while fostering partnerships with Indigenous communities in the spirit of reconciliation,” said Fielding.
The MMDF Annual Report 2021 is available at https://mmdf.ca/our-impact/annual-report-2021/.
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