The Manitoba government has unveiled a three-year pilot program to address labour shortages and drive economic growth in rural west-central Manitoba. Partnering with seven rural municipalities and Gambler First Nation, the West-Central Immigration Initiative aims to connect skilled immigrants with local employers, Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino announced on November 15, 2024.

“Manitoba leads in fostering community growth and vitality through immigration,” said Marcelino. “This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting local economies and ensuring Manitoba remains a welcoming province.”

Communities Collaborating for Economic Growth

The municipalities participating in the initiative include:

• Russell-Binscarth
• Yellowhead
• Roblin 
• Ellice-Archie
• Riding Mountain West
• Rossburn
• Prairie View
• Gambler First Nation

Together, these communities seek to attract and retain skilled workers to fill roles created by new jobs, retirements, and general growth. A recent survey estimates the need for 240 to 300 new workers over the next three years.

Mayor Judy Snitynsky of Russell-Binscarth emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating, “We are proud to partner with Gambler First Nation and neighbouring municipalities to showcase the unlimited potential for newcomers in this region.”

Founded on Proven Success

This pilot joins three other active regional immigration programs in Winkler-Stanley, Morden, and the Parkland region. These initiatives have shown significant success in drawing immigrants to rural communities, with 25 per cent of Manitoba’s provincial nominees settling outside urban areas in 2023, which is an increase from 16.2 percent in 2012.

As Manitoba continues to prioritize immigration as a tool for community and economic development, the West-Central Immigration Initiative is poised to strengthen rural economies and create welcoming opportunities for newcomers in Canada.