The transition to a green economy is no longer a distant concept – it’s a pressing reality reshaping industries across Manitoba and beyond. Sustainability presents a pivotal opportunity for businesses to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and remain competitive in an evolving market – but what are they thinking, and doing, about it?
As part of its latest Manitoba Business Outlook Survey, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) asked businesses across the province, on behalf of MCC’s Manitoba Green Advantage initiative, about their sustainability plans. We’re sharing the key insights here.
Businesses are Willing to Invest in Sustainability
When asked about their planned investments in green initiatives, Manitoba businesses demonstrated a strong willingness to act, as they increasingly recognize sustainability as a strategic necessity:
- 42% of businesses plan to invest in sustainability in the next five years
Their intended investment level varies:
- 26% will allocate under $10,000
- 16% are investing between $100,000 and $1 million
- 5% are committing over $1 million
However, 48% remain uncertain about why they should invest or where to begin.
Motivations for Sustainability Investment
The survey highlighted the key drivers that businesses said lead to them choosing to invest in sustainability:
- 38% – Grant funding
- 36% – Cost savings from efficiency improvements
- 23% – Market opportunities for green products and services
- 19% – Carbon tax rebates
Understanding and Reducing Emissions
Recognizing emission sources is the first step in a company’s sustainability journey. Businesses reported their largest source of emissions as:
- 24% – transportation and logistics
- 23% – electricity and heating
- 19% – employee commuting
- 21% – do not know their largest emissions source.
The Role of Sustainability Assessments
Sustainability assessments help businesses unlock financing and identify emission reduction opportunities. Survey results indicate:
- 45% of businesses are willing to invest in a sustainability assessment
- 20% plan to spend under $1,000
- 14% are willing to invest between $1,000 and $5,000
What Support do Small Businesses Need?
Small businesses are the backbone of Manitoba’s economy, yet they often face barriers to adopting sustainable practices. Those surveyed said their most pressing needs are:
- 53% – Funding for green initiatives.50% – Grants for sustainability assessments
- 39% – Assistance with grant applications
- 23% – Networking and collaboration platforms
- 22% – Employee training programs
What did we Learn – and What Can Businesses Do?
The 2024 Manitoba Business Outlook survey results present a clear message that sustainability is a business imperative:
- Businesses are ready to invest in sustainability.
- Financial incentives are key drivers of action.
- Emissions reduction is a growing priority.
- Sustainability assessments provide essential insights.
- Small businesses need targeted support to succeed.
The transition to a low-carbon green economy is not just an environmental obligation—it is a business opportunity. Companies that take action now will position themselves for success by:
- Staying ahead of evolving regulations.
- Accessing funding and incentives to support growth.
- Expanding into emerging clean markets.
- Reducing costs and improving profitability.
By embracing sustainability, Manitoba businesses can lead the way in building a resilient, competitive, and environmentally responsible economy. Now is the time to invest in the future.
Sustainability Workshop Opportunity
Are you a small or medium enterprise looking to cut costs, boost efficiency, and stay ahead of regulations? Join the 2-day introductory workshop “Business Sustainability | What You Need to Know to Stay Ahead” on March 25-26 in Winnipeg, presented by the Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA). You may even be able to attend for free in partnership with the Manitoba Green Advantage, which is subsidizing attendance for eligible Manitoba businesses.
The 2024 Manitoba Business Outlook Survey was conducted November 7 to December 9, 2024, with results released in January 2025.
Read the survey report: Download the full 2024 Manitoba Business Outlook Survey Report
Manitoba Green Advantage: Learn more about the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce’s Manitoba Green Advantage initiative, which aims to strengthen Manitoba’s position in the green economy and guide our province towards a greener future by providing businesses with the necessary tools and resources to reduce their carbon footprint, build resiliency, and remain competitive.
