Canada invests CAD $2.3 million in Manitoba AI innovation
The Government of Canada is providing over CAD $2.3 million in funding to New Media Manitoba to strengthen artificial intelligence innovation in the province's digital media sector.
The funding will enable New Media Manitoba to support small and medium-sized enterprises in adopting AI tools and to integrate AI technology into its StudioLab xR facility in Winnipeg. The initiative aims to assist businesses in developing new digital products, create jobs, and organise workforce training programmes to prepare Manitobans for roles in an AI-driven economy.
"We're building Canada strong by investing in what each province does best - and in Manitoba, that's a growing and innovative tech sector. That's why we're supporting New Media Manitoba, whose work is helping local businesses adopt new technologies, create good jobs, and grow Canada's digital economy," said Eleanor Olszewksi, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience
New Media Manitoba is the province's workforce innovation organisation, working towards training and virtual production in the Prairies. NMM offers funding for local businesses in the Interactive Digital Media space. Its xR lab works with businesses on virtual production, project mapping and unreal engine to name a few.
NMM's leadership praised the significance of the funding for the province's digital creatives and industries. Dan Blair, Chair of the Board at New Media Manitoba, described the investment as substantial for the sector.
"This is a generational investment for our interactive digital media sector. It empowers creators and companies to adopt AI tools that will fundamentally enhance productivity, competitiveness, and long-term growth, ensuring Manitoba remains at the forefront of creative technology."
This non-repayable support is being delivered through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative and the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, both designed to facilitate responsible AI development and wider adoption across the Prairie provinces.
The investment is expected to directly support 77 new jobs, provide training for 100 individuals, and assist 50 small and medium-sized businesses in Manitoba's digital media community. The focus on workforce development is central to the strategy, which aims to ensure the province's workforce can meet the evolving demands of a digital economy driven by AI.
National digital strategy
The initiative aligns with Canada's broader plans to accelerate safe, responsible AI adoption to drive economic growth. Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, commented on the government's commitment to scaling the AI sector. He noted:
""Businesses and innovators are the backbone of our economy, and many are looking to use artificial intelligence to unlock productivity. The Government of Canada is committed to scaling up our country's AI industry, driving AI adoption and building a sovereign digital infrastructure," said Solomon. "Harnessing AI while increasing trust in its responsible development and deployment will promote growth and shared prosperity in Manitoba and across the country."
The initiative is part of Canada's broader efforts to increase the digital competitiveness of the Prairie provinces and to ensure responsible, trust-building deployment of AI technologies throughout the wider economy.
