Unlike loans, non‑repayable business grants Manitoba provides do not need to be paid back, making them especially attractive for small business owners. In this Manitoba small business funding guide, we will explore the various small business grants Manitoba entrepreneurs can access, including Manitoba government small business funding programs, sector-specific grants (such as agricultural grants Manitoba offers), and specialized initiatives. We will also outline eligibility for Manitoba small business grants and explain how to apply for small business grants in Manitoba to maximize your chances of success.
Overview of Manitoba Business Grants in 2025
As of 2025, there are numerous Manitoba business grants 2025 has made available through provincial and federal initiatives. The province has continued to introduce and support funding programs that stimulate economic development. Manitoba’s funding landscape includes grants for workforce training, technology adoption, startup development, agriculture, and rural business growth. New programs and updates in recent years (such as targeted grants for underrepresented entrepreneurs) underscore the government’s commitment to helping small businesses thrive. This guide will cover key Manitoba business grants and funding sources that are relevant in 2025, ensuring you are aware of current opportunities.
Understanding Manitoba Government Small Business Funding
The Manitoba government plays a significant role in supporting small businesses through various funding programs. Manitoba government small business funding includes direct grants, cost-sharing programs, tax credits, and low-interest loans. For the purpose of this guide, we focus on grants and similar non-repayable funding. These programs are designed to encourage business growth, innovation, job creation, and skill development within the province. Below, we detail several major government-backed grant programs and initiatives available to Manitoba businesses:
Canada‑Manitoba Job Grant: Training Grants for Manitoba Small Businesses
One of the most important training grants for Manitoba small businesses is the Canada‑Manitoba Job Grant (CMJG). This program is a cost-sharing grant that helps employers cover the expenses of training their employees. The grant is part of the federal–provincial Canada Job Grant initiative, tailored for Manitoba.
What it offers: The Canada-Manitoba Job Grant provides up to 75% of eligible training costs for employers with 100 or fewer employees (and up to 50% of training costs for larger employers). The funding is capped at $10,000 per trainee and a maximum of $100,000 per employer per year. This can cover tuition or course fees from third-party training providers, required textbooks or software, exam fees, and even a portion of travel costs for training if needed. Essentially, it substantially reduces the cost for small businesses to upgrade their workforce’s skills.
Purpose: The grant aims to develop a highly skilled workforce by helping businesses train new or existing employees in areas that meet business needs. It can be used for a wide range of training activities — from technical skills development to leadership training — as long as the training is delivered by an external qualified trainer (such as a college, private training firm, industry association, etc.).
Eligibility: Manitoba businesses of all sizes can apply, but they must be registered and operating in Manitoba and have a valid business number. The trainee must be a Manitoba resident who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (or otherwise legally able to work in Canada). Most types of businesses can apply, including private companies, non-profits, and indigenous organizations; however, public sector employers (government agencies) are generally not eligible to use this for their staff. Notably, a small business must have a minimum level of liability insurance (for example, $2 million, as often required) and commit to retaining the trainee for some period after training (since the goal is sustained employment). Companies that have received the maximum number of grants in recent years or are already funded by certain other provincial training programs might be ineligible.
Application Cycle: The Canada–Manitoba Job Grant usually has annual intakes. As of 2025, the program was expected to reopen in early fall (e.g., early September 2025 for the 2025/26 cycle). Applications are typically accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until funding for the year runs out. It’s important to apply ahead of the training start date and to provide a detailed training plan with the application.
For Manitoba employers looking to upskill their team or train new hires, the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant is a crucial resource. It essentially acts as a Manitoba small business grant for workforce training, lowering the cost burden of professional development and helping businesses remain competitive.
Digital Adoption Grants: TechUP and PowerUP (Tech Upgrade Grants Manitoba)
Technological innovation and digital capabilities are vital for modern businesses. Recognizing this, Manitoba launched the Digital Manitoba Initiative (DMI), which included two prominent grant programs: TechUP and PowerUP. These were essentially tech upgrade grants Manitoba offered to help businesses adopt new technologies and improve their digital operations.
TechUP grant (Manitoba): TechUP was a small grant (up to $5,000) designed to support fundamental digital upgrades for businesses. Manitoba small businesses could use TechUP funds for projects like building or enhancing a company website, setting up an e-commerce platform, adopting digital marketing tools, or implementing software and hardware upgrades. The emphasis was on quick, impactful projects – each TechUP grant-funded project had to be completed within about 30 days of approval (and it could even cover projects that the business undertook shortly before the program, if within the eligibility window). This quick turnaround encouraged businesses to rapidly implement basic digital improvements.
PowerUP grant (Manitoba): PowerUP was the larger companion grant under the Digital Manitoba Initiative, offering up to $25,000 for more extensive digital transformation projects. With PowerUP, businesses could undertake broader tech projects – for example, developing custom software, integrating advanced e-commerce or inventory systems, investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, or other strategic IT upgrades. Projects funded by PowerUP had a longer completion window (typically up to 90 days from approval) given their larger scope. The higher funding amount allowed companies to tackle significant improvements that could enhance productivity and competitiveness.
Impact and Usage: Both TechUP and PowerUP grants were hugely popular. They could cover costs such as purchasing software or cloud services, buying or upgrading hardware, hiring IT or web development services, digital marketing initiatives, training staff on new digital tools, and even assessments or audits (like cybersecurity audits or technology needs assessments). Essentially, almost any expense related to improving digital capabilities was eligible. Many Manitoba small businesses took advantage of these grants to create online sales channels during the pandemic recovery period, upgrade aging computer systems, or adopt remote work and collaboration tools.
Status: TechUP grant Manitoba and PowerUP grant Manitoba were part of a specific funding initiative (with a $15 million provincial commitment announced in late 2021). These programs have since concluded (the funding was fully subscribed). By 2022, multiple rounds were opened to meet demand, and ultimately both grants are now closed to new applications. However, their legacy is significant: hundreds of businesses were able to future-proof their operations. Even though TechUP and PowerUP are no longer open, they are worth noting as a model of Manitoba’s commitment to digital adoption.
Current Alternatives: In the absence of TechUP and PowerUP in 2025, Manitoba businesses can still access other tech upgrade grants. Notably, the federal Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) is available to Manitoba small businesses. CDAP offers two streams: the “Grow Your Business Online” micro-grant (up to $2,400 for very small businesses to establish e-commerce capabilities) and the “Boost Your Business Tech” program (which provides advisory services and grants up to $15,000 for developing a digital adoption plan, plus an optional zero-interest loan for implementation). While CDAP is a Canada-wide initiative, it serves a similar purpose in helping companies with digital transformation. Additionally, Manitoba businesses should keep an eye out for any new provincial digital economy grants that may emerge. The province often evaluates past programs like TechUP/PowerUP and may introduce new funding streams if there’s a demonstrated need for further tech adoption support.
In summary, Manitoba’s TechUP and PowerUP grants were key Manitoba small business grants that facilitated digital upgrades. Businesses that missed those programs can still pursue other technology grants (federal or future provincial programs) to continue modernizing their operations.
Startup and New Business Grants for Manitoba Entrepreneurs
Launching a new business can be financially challenging, and Manitoba has recognized this by providing grants aimed at startups and young entrepreneurs. If you are looking for grants for startups in Manitoba, there are a few avenues to explore:
Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP): Manitoba’s Young Entrepreneurs grant program is designed to encourage young Manitobans to start their own full-time businesses. It typically targets individuals aged 18 to 29 who are in the process of launching (or have recently launched) a business in Manitoba. This program offers grants ranging from a few hundred dollars up to around $10,000 to help cover startup costs and capital expenses. The funding usually covers up to 25% of the project’s eligible costs, meaning the entrepreneur must also invest some of their own money or other financing. Eligible expenses under this grant can include things like purchasing equipment or office furniture, leasehold improvements, buying initial inventory, business licensing fees, marketing costs for the launch, and other startup operational costs.
Eligibility: To qualify, the business generally needs to be a new, full-time venture that will provide the owner with full-time self-employment (i.e., it isn’t just a side hobby or part-time project). The business must be Manitoba-based and intended to be ongoing (not a temporary or seasonal endeavor). The young entrepreneur must submit a viable business plan demonstrating how the enterprise will become sustainable and generate at least a modest income (often the requirement is that it can provide at least a full-time minimum wage income to the owner). Those who receive this grant cannot have received it in the past (it’s typically a one-time support to kickstart a new enterprise). Also, someone already receiving another major startup grant from the federal or provincial government might not be eligible concurrently (to avoid double-funding the same startup costs).
Status: In recent years, the Young Entrepreneurs Program has been active with periodic intake deadlines. For example, there may be an application call annually or semi-annually. It is often administered in partnership with organizations like Community Futures or provincial economic development offices. In 2025, this grant program is open and continues to support youth-led startups. Aspiring applicants should check with the province’s business development department or Community Futures Manitoba for the latest intake dates and application requirements.
Manitoba Business Start Program: Manitoba previously offered a “Business Start” loan program (a repayable loan for new small businesses), but as a grant, the province itself doesn’t have a general startup grant for all ages outside of specific categories. Instead, other supports exist such as the young entrepreneur grant above or occasional competitions. It’s worth noting if you are a young founder outside the 18-29 age range, you might seek alternative supports like mentorship programs or federally funded options.
Federal Startup Grants and Supports: While direct grants for starting a business are rare, Manitoba entrepreneurs can tap into federal programs. One example is Futurpreneur Canada (though not a grant, Futurpreneur offers low-interest startup loans plus mentorship to young entrepreneurs up to age 39). Also, if your startup is innovation-oriented (for instance a tech startup or a company developing a new product), you might access research and development grants. The National Research Council’s IRAP (Industrial Research Assistance Program) provides non-repayable contributions (grants) to small and medium-sized businesses in Canada, including those in Manitoba, to support R&D and commercialization of innovative technologies. IRAP can cover a portion of salaries and contractor costs for technical projects – effectively serving as an innovation grant for startups and SMEs working on new tech or products. Similarly, if a startup is in the clean technology or sustainable product space, there might be federal grants available under sustainable development programs.
Grants for Specific Groups: Manitoba has shown interest in supporting entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups. Recently, a Black Entrepreneurs and Small Business Program was introduced to provide grants (between $5,000 and $20,000) to Black-owned small businesses in Manitoba, aiming to help overcome barriers and foster growth. Likewise, Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba can seek support through organizations like the Louis Riel Capital Corporation, which has offered a Youth Entrepreneurship Grant & Loan Program for Métis youth, and other indigenous economic development programs (though these might combine loans and grants). While these are targeted initiatives and not broad “start a business” grants for everyone, they are crucial resources for the communities they serve.
In summary, grants for startups in Manitoba are available primarily through youth-focused programs and targeted initiatives. If you are starting a small business, explore the Young Entrepreneurs grant if you qualify, and look into your industry or demographic-specific programs. Additionally, be creative in seeking support – sometimes grants not labeled as “startup grants” can still fund early-stage activities (for example, an innovation grant to develop a prototype can effectively support a startup in its R&D phase).
Innovation and Expansion Grants
Manitoba businesses that are growing or innovating may access grant support through certain provincial programs:
Innovation Growth Program (IGP): The Manitoba government’s Innovation Growth Program provides grants to commercialize new innovative products and services. While not as widely publicized as some programs, IGP offers cost-shared funding (non-repayable) to Manitoba companies undertaking commercialization projects. A typical grant might cover up to 50% of eligible project costs (such as prototype development, product testing, marketing for new products) with a considerable maximum (in past iterations, up to $100,000). The goal is to accelerate the growth of innovative Manitoba companies, especially in sectors like technology, manufacturing, or life sciences. Small and mid-sized enterprises developing something novel should investigate IGP or similar innovation funds that might be active in 2025.
Manitoba Industrial Opportunities Program (MIOP): This is more of a loan program for large projects, but it’s worth mentioning as part of Manitoba’s toolkit. MIOP offers repayable financial assistance to businesses expanding or locating in Manitoba, typically for significant capital investments that create jobs. While not a grant (since it involves repayment, often at favorable terms), its existence underscores that Manitoba supports business expansion in various ways. Small businesses generally wouldn’t use MIOP unless they have a major growth project.
Tax Credit Programs: In addition to direct grants, Manitoba has several tax credits that effectively act as funding for businesses engaging in certain activities. For instance, the Small Business Venture Capital Tax Credit incentivizes investors to put money into Manitoba small businesses (making it easier for startups to raise capital). The Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit supports companies developing video games or digital media products (refunding a portion of labor costs). Similarly, there are credits for film production, manufacturing investment, and green energy equipment. While these are not grants, they can improve a company’s financial position by reducing taxes or attracting investment, which is useful for planning your overall funding strategy.
Sector-Specific and Regional Grants in Manitoba
Different industries have tailored grant programs, and some funding is targeted at rural or community development. Here we cover a few key categories, such as agricultural grants Manitoba provides to its farming and agri-business sector, and support for businesses in rural areas.
Agricultural Grants in Manitoba
Agriculture is a backbone of Manitoba’s economy, and both provincial and federal governments provide extensive support to this sector. If you operate a farm or an agri-food business, there are agricultural grants Manitoba offers that you should know about:
Canadian Agricultural Partnership / Sustainable CAP Programs: Manitoba, in partnership with the federal government, runs agricultural funding programs under a five-year policy framework. From 2018-2023 the framework was the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), and from 2023 onward a new framework called Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP) is in place (2023-2028). Through these frameworks, numerous cost-shared grant programs are available in Manitoba under the banner often known as Ag Action Manitoba. These grants support a wide range of agriculture-related projects.
Examples: There are streams for environmental stewardship (e.g., funding for on-farm sustainability practices like improved manure management, water conservation projects, or ecological goods and services that benefit the environment), for research and innovation in agriculture (grants for developing new crop varieties, farming techniques, or ag-tech), for farm capital investments (helping producers purchase equipment or technology that improves efficiency or safety), for market development (assisting agri-food businesses in market research, product development or accessing new markets), and for training (even farmers and agri-food employees can get training grants similar to job grants, to upgrade skills in agricultural practices or business management).
One specific example is Ag Action Manitoba – Capital Assets & Equipment, which has offered grants to agri-processors and industry service providers to buy new equipment that enhances productivity or adds new capabilities. Another is Ag Action Manitoba – Market Development, helping food processors or industry organizations with promotional activities or trade shows. For primary producers (farmers), programs like Environmental Farm Action plans or Beneficial Management Practices (BMP) grants have helped fund the adoption of practices that reduce environmental impact, often covering a significant percentage of costs for approved projects (like planting cover crops, fencing to protect waterways, etc.).
Eligibility & Access: Most of these agricultural grants require that you apply within specific intakes and meet criteria detailed by Manitoba Agriculture. A common requirement is that the applicant must be an established farm or agri-business in Manitoba, and the project must align with program goals (e.g., a pig farmer wanting funding to build a manure storage that prevents runoff might apply under an environmental BMP grant). Applications often need a clear project plan and budget. Deadlines are usually announced for various program streams each year. Information is typically available on the Manitoba Agriculture website or through local Manitoba Agriculture Service Centers.
AgriRecovery and Other Special Programs: At times, there are emergency or special-purpose grants, such as under AgriRecovery (for disaster recovery in agriculture). For example, if Manitoba producers face a natural disaster (drought, flood, disease outbreak), the governments might roll out grant assistance to help affected farms recover. These are not regular programs but important to note for those in the agricultural sector.
Rural and Northern Capacity Building: While not strictly agriculture, rural communities often rely on agri-business and need economic development. Manitoba has had programs like the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) in the past, aimed at community projects, which may indirectly benefit rural business environment. There are also grants for diversification centers or community-led business development projects. If you run a small business in a rural Manitoba area, it may be worthwhile to contact your local Community Futures office or municipal economic development office to ask about any current rural business grants or incentives. Rural small business grants Manitoba might be available on a regional basis – occasionally, towns or regions have their own incentive programs to attract businesses (for instance, grants or tax rebates for setting up in certain communities).
In essence, Manitoba’s agricultural and rural funding programs are quite extensive. Agricultural grants in Manitoba cover everything from farm innovation to environmental sustainability, while rural business supports ensure that entrepreneurship is not limited to the big cities. Farmers and rural entrepreneurs should stay connected with Manitoba Agriculture and local development organizations to keep informed about these opportunities.
Grants for Technology and Innovation
In addition to the digital tech grants like TechUP and PowerUP discussed earlier, Manitoba businesses in technology or innovative fields can benefit from other funding sources:
Federal Innovation Grants: We mentioned IRAP for research and development funding to innovate new products or processes. Another major federal program is the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), which is geared toward large-scale innovation projects. While SIF is generally aimed at bigger enterprises or consortia with projects typically $20 million and up (with grants or repayable contributions covering up to 50% of huge projects), it shows the government’s commitment to supporting innovation in provinces like Manitoba. For small and medium businesses, IRAP is usually more accessible, but if your Manitoba tech company grows and undertakes a transformative project (such as building a manufacturing facility for a new technology), SIF could be relevant.
Technology Adoption Programs: Beyond the Digital Manitoba Initiative and CDAP, other tech-related grants appear from time to time. For example, the federal government’s Industrial Energy Efficiency or Clean Tech programs can fund businesses to adopt clean technology or reduce carbon footprint – Manitoba companies can apply to those as part of Canada-wide calls. If your business is investing in something like solar panels, energy-efficient equipment, or other green technology, check for grants under programs like the Low Carbon Economy Fund or Efficiency Manitoba’s incentive programs (Efficiency Manitoba offers rebates and incentives for businesses that implement energy-saving measures – not exactly grants, but still money back in your pocket for qualifying projects).
Industry-Specific Tech Grants: Manitoba’s economic strategy often highlights sectors such as information and communications technology (ICT), aerospace, biosciences, and advanced manufacturing. Keep an eye on sector councils and industry associations in Manitoba – sometimes they administer funding or pilot programs. For instance, the Manitoba Interactive Digital Media Fund (through New Media Manitoba, an industry association) has existed to support game developers and digital media startups. Similarly, there might be contests or innovation challenges sponsored by the government or large corporations that Manitoba firms can enter to win grant funding.
In summary, Manitoba businesses focusing on innovation, whether through developing new technology or adopting it, have multiple avenues for support. The key is to align your project with the right program – whether it’s federal R&D support, provincial commercialization grants, or tech adoption incentives – thereby securing a tech upgrade grant or innovation funding that accelerates your growth.
Grants for Rural and Community Businesses
For entrepreneurs in Manitoba’s smaller communities or those addressing local needs, there are grants and funding programs geared toward community economic development:
Community Futures Micro-Grants: Community Futures Manitoba, through its regional offices (like Community Futures Westman, etc.), occasionally offers micro-grant programs for new small businesses or “side hustle” ventures in rural areas. These grants tend to be smaller (a few thousand dollars) and often are time-limited initiatives funded by provincial or federal rural development budgets. While the primary service of Community Futures is business loans and advice, it’s worth checking if any one-time grant initiatives are open.
Building Sustainable Communities (BSC): The Manitoba government’s Building Sustainable Communities program provides grants to non-profit organizations, charities, and local governments for community development projects. If you’re a social enterprise or your business project has a strong community impact (for instance, setting up a community co-op, farmers’ market infrastructure, or a social business in a rural area), partnering with a non-profit to apply for BSC funding might be an option. BSC has funded projects like community hubs, tourism facilities, farmers’ markets, and other initiatives that indirectly benefit local small businesses by strengthening community infrastructure.
Urban and Hometown Green Team Grants: These are grants that subsidize wages for youth employed in summer jobs with non-profits or municipalities (not directly for businesses except as partners), but creative entrepreneurs sometimes utilize such programs to offset costs of community-based projects.
Municipal Incentives: Some Manitoba municipalities offer their own small business incentives or grants to attract businesses. For example, a town might have a grant or rebate for businesses that revitalize a downtown building or a cash incentive for starting a new venture that fills a needed service in the community. While not province-wide, these are worth exploring by checking with local economic development offices or Chambers of Commerce.
When considering rural small business grants Manitoba might have, remember that they may not always be labeled specifically as “business grants.” They could be part of community improvement programs or regional development initiatives. Rural entrepreneurs often need to piece together support from multiple sources, but there is help available to ensure that economic growth isn’t limited to Winnipeg or major centers alone.
How to Apply for Small Business Grants in Manitoba
Understanding the available programs is only half the battle; you also need to know how to apply for small business grants in Manitoba effectively. Applying for grants can be a competitive and detailed process. Here are steps and tips to guide you through a successful application:
1. Research and Identify the Right Grant Program
Begin by finding a grant that fits your business needs and project plans. There are numerous grants, each with its own purpose and target. Use resources like the Manitoba government’s business portal or the federal Business Benefits Finder to search programs by criteria. Pay attention to eligibility (industry, business size, location) and what expenses or activities the grant will cover. It’s crucial to apply for grants that closely match your project; a well-aligned project stands a much better chance of approval.
Make a list of potential programs – for example, if you need funding to train staff, the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant is an obvious choice. If you are looking for help to buy new equipment, perhaps an innovation grant or an agricultural equipment grant (if you’re a farmer) would fit. For tech or software, consider digital adoption grants. Prioritize these opportunities by deadlines and fit.
2. Check Eligibility Criteria Carefully
Once you have a grant in mind, thoroughly review the program’s eligibility rules. Eligibility for Manitoba small business grants will vary by program:
Some grants require the business to have been operating for a minimum period (e.g., at least a year) or, conversely, some are only for new startups less than a year old.
Many provincial grants require that the business is registered in Manitoba and in good standing (meaning all taxes or provincial obligations are up to date).
There could be restrictions based on business structure (for instance, some grants may not be open to sole proprietors or might require incorporation).
Certain grants target specific groups (youth, Indigenous, etc.) or specific sectors (manufacturing, technology, agriculture). Ensure you fall under the intended target group.
Financial criteria might exist too; for example, some grants want to see that you can match funds or contribute a percentage of the project cost. Others like CanExport require a minimum revenue level or export sales below a threshold.
If the program is a reimbursement grant, be prepared that you might have to pay for the expenses up front and then get reimbursed by the grant upon submitting proof of payment.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, contact the program administrators. Manitoba government departments often have contact emails or phone numbers for their grant programs. Clarifying doubts in advance can save you from putting effort into an application that might be disqualified.
3. Prepare a Strong Application and Proposal
Grant applications typically require a combination of forms and supporting documents. A well-prepared application can set you apart:
Application Form: This is usually a standardized form where you provide basic information about your business (name, address, business number) and details about your project (description, timelines, costs). Fill this out completely and accurately. Double-check that all fields are addressed; incomplete applications are a common reason for rejection.
Business Plan or Project Plan: Many grants, especially those for startups or expansion projects, will ask for a business plan or at least a project proposal. This document should clearly explain what your business does, what project you are undertaking, why it’s needed, and what outcomes you expect (e.g., increase in revenue, jobs created, new markets reached). For example, if applying for an innovation grant to develop a new product, describe the product, the market opportunity, and how you will execute the development and commercialization. If applying for a training grant, outline which employees will be trained, in what skills, and how that benefits the business.
Budget and Quotes: Prepare a detailed budget for the project with itemized costs. If the grant covers specific expenses, align your budget accordingly. It’s often beneficial (or required) to include quotes from vendors or training providers to justify the costs. For instance, if you plan to spend $10,000 on a new software system and want a grant for half of that, include a quote from the software company or a screenshot of the pricing. For training grants, include the course outline and cost breakdown from the training provider. The funding agency wants to see that the numbers are realistic and backed by evidence.
Supporting Documents: Depending on the grant, you may need to attach various documents. This could include financial statements (to show your company’s financial health), resumes or qualifications (if the grant values the expertise of your team or the trainer, for example), letters of support (sometimes useful for community or innovation projects to show stakeholders’ backing), and any required certifications (e.g., proof of insurance, proof of being a Manitoba resident or business, etc.).
Follow Guidelines: Every grant application will come with guidelines or instructions. Follow them meticulously. If there’s a page limit, stick to it. If they want a PDF submission via email with a specific subject line, do exactly that. Not adhering to instructions can result in disqualification before your content is even read.
Language and Tone: Write your proposal in a clear and professional manner. Use a formal tone and avoid slang. However, do write in an engaging way that shows your passion and the importance of your project. The reviewers should come away convinced that your project is worthy of funding and that you have the capability to execute it successfully. Quantify benefits if possible (e.g., “This expansion will create 5 new full-time jobs in rural Manitoba” or “The new equipment will increase production by 30% enabling us to reach new markets in Saskatchewan”).
4. Submit Before the Deadline and Follow Up
Grant programs have deadlines or application windows. Always submit your application on time (if not early). Late applications are usually not considered at all. Aim to have everything ready a few days before the deadline in case of technical issues with submission.
After submitting, you will typically receive a confirmation (either an automatic email or a reference number). If you do not, consider following up with the program contact to ensure your application was received.
Be patient, as review processes can take weeks or even months, depending on the program. Most programs will notify all applicants of the results once decisions are made. If you haven’t heard back in the expected timeframe, it’s acceptable to politely inquire about the status.
5. If Approved – Next Steps and If Denied – Learn and Try Again
If your grant application is approved, congratulations! Make sure you understand the terms of funding. Often, you will need to sign a contribution agreement or contract. This document will outline the approved budget, payment schedule (some grants pay upfront, others reimburse after you incur costs, and some do partial advances), and reporting requirements. You may be required to submit progress reports or a final report detailing how the money was spent and what outcomes were achieved. Keep all receipts and documentation of expenses, as you will likely need to provide copies for reimbursement or auditing.
Execute your project as planned, and stay in communication with the grantor if any changes need to happen (sometimes you must get approval for budget or scope changes).
If your application was not approved, don’t be discouraged. Grant competitions can be stiff. Take it as a learning experience:
Ask for feedback: Some programs will provide feedback on why the application was not successful (e.g., limited funds, or certain criteria not met). This can be invaluable for future attempts.
Refine your proposal: Maybe your project needs to be adjusted or better explained. Perhaps you need to apply to a different program that’s a closer fit.
Try again next round: Many grants have multiple intakes. Address any feedback, improve your application, and apply when the program reopens. Persistence can pay off.
Eligibility Criteria for Manitoba Small Business Grants
We touched on eligibility in the application section, but it’s worth summarizing common eligibility for Manitoba small business grants. While each program has unique requirements, here are some general criteria and conditions you will often encounter:
Business Registration and Location: Grants usually require that your business is registered in Manitoba (provincially or at least federally with a Manitoba base of operations) and operating primarily in Manitoba. Having a Manitoba address and Business Number is essential. Some grants even specify that you must have a valid Manitoba Business Number or proof of filing Manitoba business taxes.
Size of Business: Many small business grants define “small business” by number of employees or annual revenue. For example, the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant doesn’t exclude larger firms, but some provincial programs might say “business with fewer than 50 employees” or a certain revenue cap. Always check if there’s a size limit to qualify as a “small” business for that specific fund.
Use of Funds: Eligibility extends to how you will use the grant money. Each grant has permitted uses and disallowed uses. If you intend to use funds for something outside the program’s scope, your project may be deemed ineligible. For instance, using a tech adoption grant to buy a delivery vehicle wouldn’t qualify, since it’s not a technology project. Or using a job training grant to pay employee wages (rather than training costs) would be ineligible. Be very clear on what expenses are covered.
Timing: Grants often cannot be used for expenses incurred before approval. This means you can’t usually apply for a grant to reimburse money you’ve already spent (unless the program explicitly allows covering recent past expenses, like TechUP did for projects after a certain date). Plan future activities and apply ahead of time. Also, your project usually needs to be completed within a certain timeframe after receiving the grant. If a project is too far out or too long-term, it might not be eligible.
Multiple Funding Sources: Many programs ask you to disclose if you have other funding for the same project. Generally, they allow combining funding, but often insist that you are not getting double-funded for the same expense. Some grants, as noted, disallow applicants who have other grants for the same purpose. For example, you typically cannot use two government grants to pay for the exact same cost (no “stacking” beyond 100% funding). If you have a federal grant covering 50% of a project, a provincial program may only top up a portion so that total public funding doesn’t exceed a certain threshold (sometimes 75% or 90%). Transparency about your funding plan is key.
Specific Exclusions: Certain types of businesses or business activities might be excluded. Common exclusions include: charities and non-profits (unless the program is aimed at them), businesses that are primarily retail or personal services (some innovation grants exclude retail businesses as they want manufacturing or tech, for example), franchises of large chains, and businesses related to gambling or adult entertainment. Always check the fine print for any such exclusions in the program guidelines.
Good Standing: You may need to be in compliance with all laws and regulations. If your business has outstanding taxes or is involved in a legal violation, that could render you ineligible. For example, having workers’ compensation or insurance as required, and not having any government debts in arrears, can be a criterion.
Remember, eligibility criteria for Manitoba small business grants are there to ensure funds go to the intended purpose and audience. Meeting the basic eligibility is the first gate; after that, it’s about the quality of your application to win the competition for funding.
Tips for Success in Securing Grants
Lastly, to conclude this guide, here are some additional tips and best practices when pursuing grants:
Plan Ahead: Grant hunting should be a part of your business planning. Keep an annual calendar of known grant programs and their deadlines (for example, if you know the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant opens every September, plan your training around that). Many entrepreneurs who successfully tap multiple grants build a proactive approach rather than reacting at the last minute.
Stay Informed: Grant programs can come and go. Stay updated by subscribing to newsletters from Manitoba’s Economic Development office, industry associations, and websites that aggregate business funding news. When new government budgets are released (provincial or federal), look out for announcements of new grants or changes to existing ones (for instance, increases in funding or changes in criteria).
Networking: Sometimes learning about less-publicized funding opportunities comes from networking. Join your local Chamber of Commerce or business association. Attend small business events or webinars on funding. Other business owners can share their experiences and tips, and guest speakers (like government representatives or consultants) often present on the latest funding programs.
Professional Help: If the grant landscape feels overwhelming, consider seeking help. There are consultants (often called grant writers or business advisors) who, for a fee, help identify suitable grants and even write applications. Organizations like the World Trade Centre Winnipeg, Economic Development Winnipeg, or community futures offices can also provide guidance. While you do have to invest time or money to get assistance, it might improve your odds, especially for complex grants. Just ensure any consultant you engage is reputable and ideally familiar with Manitoba programs.
Persistence: Don’t be discouraged by a rejection. Many successful grant recipients will tell you they applied multiple times or to multiple programs before securing funding. Use each experience to refine your approach.
Compliance: Once you get a grant, follow the rules diligently. Deliver the project as promised, use the funds appropriately, and meet all reporting requirements. Building a good track record with grant providers (provincial or federal) can help if you apply for other programs in the future. If you demonstrate that you can responsibly manage grant funds and achieve project goals, that reputation can sometimes be communicated in support letters or informal feedback between program managers.
By following these practices, you will improve your chances of unlocking funding through the various Manitoba small business grants available.
Conclusion
Manitoba’s small business grant landscape in 2025 is rich and varied, offering entrepreneurs and established business owners alike opportunities to secure funding for growth. This Manitoba small business grants guide has walked through the major programs—from government-funded training subsidies like the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant, to specialized initiatives like TechUP and PowerUP that fueled digital adoption, and sector-specific supports in areas such as agriculture and startup development. We’ve also discussed how Manitoba business grants 2025 continue to evolve, addressing current economic priorities and opportunities.
As a Manitoba small business funding guide, our aim is to provide a comprehensive overview to help you navigate the options. By understanding what funding is out there, ensuring you meet eligibility for Manitoba small business grants, and knowing how to apply for small business grants in Manitoba effectively, you can tap into these resources to propel your business forward. Remember that grants are just one piece of the funding puzzle—complement them with smart business planning, and you can significantly reduce financial barriers as you start or expand your venture.
In the ever-changing funding environment, staying informed and prepared is key. Manitoba’s commitment to supporting small businesses is strong, and with perseverance and the information from this guide, you can take full advantage of the small business grants Manitoba has to offer. Good luck with your funding journey and with your business endeavors in Manitoba!
