The Manitoba government is partnering with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) to fund the Digital Manitoba Initiative (DMI), which will help businesses and non-profit organizations with digital transformation.
“Digital technology can enhance both systems and productivity, but many businesses and non-profit organizations face challenges integrating this technology into their operations,” said Economic Development and Jobs Minister Jon Reyes. “Our government’s investment in the Digital Manitoba Initiative will enable local businesses and non-profit organizations to transition their operations to digital platforms, provide goods and services online and allowing Manitoba’s economy to better recover from COVID-19.”
The DMI offers businesses and non-profit organizations across Manitoba a low-risk way to invest in and adopt digital technology. The initiative will be delivered and administered by the MCC, but the province will cover the $15-million cost of the initiative as part of Manitoba’s $50-million Long-Term Recovery Fund.
“Investing in the technological enhancement of local business is the best way to ensure our community’s future success,” said Chuck Davidson, president and CEO of Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “The DMI will enable future facing organizations to meet the changing needs of our modern economy, while increasing efficiencies and contributing to scalability.”
The DMI fund will provide parameters for applicants but be purposefully broad to prevent bias and encourage creative solutions by businesses, for businesses.
The fund consists of two streams designed to support projects that are immediately actionable:
TechUP digital adoption investment of up to $5,000 for fundamental digital tools, which could include a range of assets and/or applications, such as supporting marketing and promotional activities, website development/enhancement, e-commerce capabilities, accounting, events or project management software; andPowerUP digital strategy funding of up to $25,000 to evolve business models, processes and operations, improve client/customer experience and increase productivity.
Initial applications to the DMI will be reviewed and vetted for eligibility. Organizations must be a Manitoba-based business or not-for-profit, with a valid Manitoba business number, in good standing with the Companies Office. Once eligibility to apply is confirmed, DMI applicants will be invited to submit their funding request via the digital portal. Submissions will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis by a panel of new media and technical experts.
For more information on the Digital Manitoba Initiative, visit digitalmanitobainitiative.com.
