The Government of Canada is
providing more than $1.5M to support
the economic growth of Manitoba's
Francophone and bilingual communities
WINNIPEG, MB, March 5,
2025 /CNW/ - The French language and Francophone and
bilingual communities are vital parts of what makes Manitoba special. March is Francophonie Month,
a time to explore and celebrate the rich diversity, culture and
history of Francophones. Manitoba
is home to 16 vibrant bilingual municipalities. These communities
are an integral part of the province's identity, economic growth
and cultural vitality.
Today, the Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister for PrairiesCan,
announced a federal investment of $1,557,150 for three projects to support the
economic growth of Manitoba's
Francophone and Bilingual Communities. These projects will help
strengthen the Francophone labour market in bilingual
municipalities and provide support for Francophone tourism
entrepreneurs in the province. Over 200 jobs will be created or
maintained, and more than 100 small- and medium-sized businesses
across Manitoba will benefit.
Of note, $1.2 million in funding
will support the work of the Association des municipalités
bilingues du Manitoba Inc. (AMBM) to determine labour force needs,
strengthen the cultural capacities of employers, and connect them
with newcomers, Indigenous people and youth.
These investments are administered by PrairiesCan and provided
through the Community Economic Development and Diversification
(CEDD) and Tourism Growth Program (TGP).
Projects receiving support:
- AMBM is receiving $1,200,000 to strengthen the labour market in
rural bilingual municipalities in Manitoba.
- Le Conseil de développement
économique des municipalités bilingues du Manitoba (CDEM) is receiving $200,000 to support Francophone tourism
entrepreneurs in Manitoba.
- Entreprises Riel Inc. is receiving $157,150 to support outdoor cultural and
recreational Francophone summer tourism experiences.
Quotes
"Manitoba's Francophone and
bilingual communities are vital to our province's identity,
history, and economic strength. Through these investments, we
support local businesses, grow job opportunities, and ensure that
our Francophone culture continues to thrive. As a proud Manitoban,
I encourage everyone to participate in Francophonie Month and
celebrate the rich contributions of our Francophone communities to
our province and our country."
–The Honourable Terry Duguid,
Minister for PrairiesCan
"The Prairies offer unique attractions and experiences that put
a spotlight on the region's diverse culture and landscapes. Across
the country, our government is supporting local tourism businesses
and organizations through the Tourism Growth Program. In continuing
to invest in the tourism industry, we're helping bring more
domestic and international visitors to our country's vibrant
communities large and small."
–The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister
of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development
Agency of Canada for the Regions
of Quebec
"Attracting and retaining a qualified Francophone and bilingual
workforce are pivotal for the economic and social prosperity of our
province's bilingual rural communities. With the support of
Prairies Economic Development Canada, the project Strengthening the
Labour Market in Manitoba's
Bilingual Rural Municipalities strategically aligns our efforts to
better meet employer needs while showcasing the unique economic
advantage of the Francophonie. By facilitating the matching of
talents with employers, we directly enhance the vibrancy of the
local and regional economy, laying a solid foundation for a
prosperous future for our communities."
–Justin Johnson, Chief Executive Officer,
Association des municipalités bilingues du Manitoba
Quick facts
- In the 2021 census, Canada had
a population of nearly 37 million people. French is the first
official language spoken for 22.0% of the population.
- Manitoba is home to 16 vibrant
bilingual municipalities, including Saint
Boniface: the second largest French-speaking community
outside of Quebec in the heart of
Winnipeg.
Associated links
- Prairies Economic Development Canada
- Community Economic Development and Diversification in the
Prairie Provinces
- Tourism Growth Program (TGP) in the Prairie provinces -
Canada.ca
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impaired): 1-877-303-3388
SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada
