Manitoba Black Entrepreneurs and Small Business Program
This initiative aims to address systemic barriers, underrepresentation, and limited access to financial capital faced by Black entrepreneurs and small businesses in Manitoba. Announced by Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses, the program is administered by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce.
Guided by a steering committee of representatives from the Black community and business leaders, the program will fund projects in capital acquisition training, professional networking, and capacity-building skills development, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
Grants awarded will be focused on three main areas:
1. Training on Capital Acquisition
Projects offering training programs to help participants secure funding, including workshops on funding sources, proposal preparation, and pitching techniques.
2. Building Connections to Experienced Professionals
Projects that connect participants with industry professionals through networking events, mentorship programs, and access to professional networks and resources that can offer guidance and support.
3. Building Capacity Through Skills Development
Projects focused on enhancing participants’ skills through training sessions, workshops, and courses in areas such as leadership, project management, and technical skills.
Other Eligibility Requirements
- Black-owned or black-led business
- Open to new and existing entrepreneurs and businesses
- Located within the Province of Manitoba
- No outstanding tax obligations to the Province of Manitoba
Grant Terms
- Applicants are eligible to apply for a maximum of one project per calendar year.
- The grant awarded will be between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the specific needs and merits of the application.
- Grant recipients will be required to submit an interim report as well as a final report depending on the terms outlined in the contribution agreement. This contribution agreement will be entered into upon approval between the recipient and the Manitoba Black Entrepreneur and Small Business Program.
