If your industry faces skills shortages or rapid change, the Sector Council Program in Manitoba can help. This program funds sector-led training and workforce development projects. It supports employers, workers, and future talent in key Manitoba industries. Unlike business grants for individual companies, applications are led by sector organizations that represent groups of employers and employees.
The Sector Council Program is managed by the Government of Manitoba. It focuses on workforce solutions for entire industries, not just single businesses. Funding helps solve labour shortages that employers face.
Eligible activities include:
Short-term training for workers
Training helps businesses boost productivity, adopt new processes, or enter new markets.
Sector-wide workforce planning
Organizations consult with employers to find skills and labour shortages now and in the future.
Support for entrepreneurs and growing businesses
Training and advice help business owners scale up and stay competitive.
School-to-work and career pathway initiatives
Projects connect students, youth, and job seekers with jobs that are in demand.
Curriculum input for post-secondary institutions
Sector groups advise colleges and universities on updating programs to match industry needs.
Funding is non-repayable and based on projects. There is no fixed maximum amount. The funding depends on the scope, scale, and impact of each project.
Individual businesses cannot apply directly. Only organizations that represent a sector or industry group can apply.
Eligible applicants include:
Applicants must show active collaboration with:
Projects that include Indigenous people, newcomers, and youth are encouraged. Including these groups can make your application stronger.
The application process is more detailed than for most small business grants. This is because it focuses on results for the whole sector.
Your organization needs clear proof of labour or skills gaps in your sector. This can include employer consultations, surveys, or labour market data.
Strong collaboration is key. Confirm employer participation and get support from training providers or post-secondary institutions early.
Your proposal should include:
Send your application directly to the Government of Manitoba through the Sector Council Program intake. The province manages timelines and forms. They may ask for more information during review.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if your organization and project fit Manitoba workforce funding programs before you spend time on a full application.
Applying as a single business
Individual companies are not eligible. Projects must be led by sector organizations.
Weak employer involvement
Applications without strong employer support often fail to show real impact.
Vague training outcomes
Proposals need clear goals, such as skills gained, workers trained, or curriculum changes.
Assuming a fixed funding amount
There is no published maximum. Budgets should match your project’s scope and value.
Q: Who is eligible for the Sector Council Program in Manitoba?
Sector organizations and industry-led groups can apply. They must work with employers, educators, and other partners.
Q: What types of training does the program support?
The program supports short-term training, workforce planning, school-to-work initiatives, and curriculum development that matches industry needs.
Q: Is Sector Council Program funding repayable?
No. Funding is non-repayable when used for approved activities.
Q: How much funding can an organization receive?
There is no fixed maximum. Funding depends on the size, length, and impact of your project.
Q: Can my business benefit without applying directly?
Yes. Businesses often join sector-led projects and receive training or support funded by the program.
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