Sector Council Program

Manitoba employers facing skills shortages or rapid changes in their industry often find that training needs move faster than individual businesses can address on their own. The Sector Council Program is designed to tackle that challenge by strengthening workforce development across key industries in the province. Supported by the Government of Manitoba through Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation, the program funds sector-based organizations to design and deliver training that helps businesses remain productive, competitive, and ready for growth.

Rather than funding individual companies directly, the program invests in sector councils that work closely with employers, industry associations, and educators. These organizations identify current and emerging skills gaps, provide short-term training for existing workers, and support entrepreneurs as they scale their operations. Training initiatives often focus on practical business outcomes such as improving productivity, adopting new processes, developing products, or accessing new markets. The program also plays a role in shaping post-secondary curriculum and creating smoother pathways from school to work, ensuring graduates are job-ready for Manitoba employers.

With non-repayable funding that varies by project and sector, this program touches a wide range of industries, from manufacturing and agriculture to digital technologies, aerospace, tourism, and creative fields. Businesses that engage with their sector organization can benefit from shared training initiatives and cross-industry collaboration. Learning how your sector council participates can help determine whether this workforce-focused support aligns with your business needs.