Thirteen Manitoba-based businesses are receiving more than $1 million in funding through the latest intake of the Innovation Growth Program to develop and commercialize innovative new consumer products and software technologies.

“Investing more than $1 million into these made-in Manitoba business solutions will fuel innovation, stimulate economic growth, and enhance Manitoba’s appeal as a business-friendly destination,” said Economic Development, Investment and Trade Minister Jeff Wharton. “Accelerating these product developments are creating good quality jobs for Manitobans and strengthening our province’s position in the global market.”

The Innovation Growth Program was launched in June 2019 to augment the Manitoba government’s extensive suite of existing business incentives. The program provides up to $100,000 in grants on a 50-50 cost-sharing basis for eligible projects.

Funding is intended to reduce the risks associated with the commercialization of innovative products or processes, accelerate growth, and strengthen the financial position of companies so they can secure future funding to build their businesses in Manitoba.

The 13 companies receiving funding through the March and June program intakes are:

  • Acryl Design Ltd.,
  • Andreanne Designs Inc. (operating as Anne Mulaire Designs),
  • C2 Custom Furnishings Inc.,
  • DBI Technologies Inc.,
  • Gryd Digital Media Ltd. (operating as Gryd),
  • Fire Plan Strategies Inc.,
  • MSP Starch Products Inc.,
  • Neuroptek Corporation Inc.,
  • Neustar Manufacturing Inc.,
  • Refuah Solutions Ltd.,
  • TooPink Creative Ltd.,
  • TRAINFO Corporation, and
  • Whistle Technologies Inc.

“The Innovation Growth Program assistance comes at a crucial time in the expansion of Solnul to a wider, international audience,” said Jason Leibert, chief growth officer, MSP Starch Products Inc. “This is not only about a prebiotic ingredient with impressive gut health advantages, it is about redefining our perspective on upcycling and nutritional inputs. Thanks to this backing, we can help bring awareness to resistant starch health benefits and sustainable manufacturing practices in Manitoba.”

Combined, the 13 recipient companies are expected to create 424 new full-time jobs and $218.2 million in export sales within five years, the minister noted.

Program applications are reviewed on a quarterly basis, with the next program intake open until Sept. 15.

For more information on the Innovation Growth Program, visit gov.mb.ca.