Manitoba has launched a new grant program aimed at supporting Black entrepreneurs and small business owners across the province, with applications now being accepted for funding between $5,000 and $20,000.
The Manitoba Black Entrepreneurs and Small Business Program, announced Tuesday by Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses, will provide annual project grants to help Black-led businesses overcome systemic barriers and expand their operations.
“Our government is proud to work with the Black business community in Manitoba to create good jobs and grow our economy,” Moses said. “This program will help Black-owned and Black-led small businesses in Manitoba overcome systemic barriers and grow successful businesses in Manitoba.”
Program focuses on three key areas
The grants target three main areas of business development: training on capital acquisition, assistance with building connections to experienced professionals, and building capacity through skills development. Awards will be determined based on the specific needs and merits of each application.
Entrepreneurs and small business owners who self-identify as part of the Black community are eligible to apply for one project grant annually. The program addresses realities, barriers and opportunities specific to Black business owners in the province, according to the minister.
Community partnership drives administration
A steering committee made up of representatives from Black and business communities will work with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to run the program. The committee includes Maggie Yeboah, executive director of African Communities of Manitoba Inc., Donna Taylor, president of Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba Inc., Diane Dwarka, vice-president of Council of Caribbean Organizations of Manitoba, and Chuck Davidson, president and chief executive officer of Manitoba Chambers of Commerce.
“ACOMI is proud to have contributed to the development of this important initiative,” said Yeboah. “The launch of the Black Entrepreneurs and Small Business Program represents a promising opportunity to uplift Black-owned businesses and create lasting pathways to success. This is a significant milestone for our community, and we are excited for what lies ahead.”
Dwarka said the program addresses specific challenges facing Black entrepreneurs in the province.
“I fully endorse this program which supports Black entrepreneurs and business owners in Manitoba and helps tackle the systemic barriers and specific challenges that Black entrepreneurs and business owners face,” said Dwarka. “By offering targeted business development resources, mentorship and entrepreneurial guidance, this initiative will help build sustainable and thriving enterprises in Manitoba.”
Application deadline set for July
The program represents a collaborative effort between the provincial government and the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to support economic growth within Black communities. Applications must be submitted by July 4.
The initiative comes as governments across Canada work to address economic disparities and support underrepresented business communities through targeted funding programs.
