Last week the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF) team participated in the Central Canada Mineral Exploration Convention (CCMEC) at the Victoria Inn. This prominent event attracted 800 sponsors, exhibitors, and delegates from various sectors of the mining and exploration industry.
The convention featured global speakers and diverse stakeholders, offering a wealth of learning opportunities. Highlights included two Indigenous keynote speakers who emphasized the importance of building respectful and meaningful partnerships with First Nations communities. Discussions centered on Indigenous agreements that stress early engagement and economic reconciliation. Participants also received the launch of the province’s new permitting process and mineral exploration guide with enthusiasm.
During the convention, Honourable Jamie Moses, Minister of Economic Development, Investment, Trade & Natural Resources announced a new intake of up to $2 million in funding through the MMDF. Administered by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, the MMDF supports economic development and mining projects with grants of up to $300,000 per project. These projects aim to foster Indigenous partnerships, boost local employment, and stimulate investment in northern Manitoba. Since its inception in 2020, the MMDF has provided $14.7 million to 90 projects, leveraging over $128 million in private-sector capital, creating over 660 jobs, and forming 128 community and Indigenous partnerships.
Networking, partnerships, and relationship-building were key themes throughout the conference and were exceptionally well-executed. The MMDF team is already looking forward to next year’s conference, which promises to be even bigger and better.
Learn more and apply for funding on the MMDF website.
