The Manitoba government is confirming its commitment to children, families and lifelong learning by investing an additional $500,000 in the Manitoba Children’s Museum to support programming and outreach for children.
“Every kid deserves a place where they can learn, play and dream big,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “The Manitoba Children’s Museum gives families a space to come together and helps kids explore ideas and build confidence. We’re proud to invest so that even more young Manitobans can be inspired to learn and play.”
The additional funding will help the museum advance its revitalization plans, expand interactive exhibits and enhance inclusive educational programming designed to inspire children of all ages and abilities, the premier noted.
“This investment from the Manitoba government is a meaningful vote of confidence as we mark our 40th anniversary and a strong endorsement of the positive impacts of early childhood learning through play on children and families across our province,” said Trevor Clearwater, executive director, Manitoba Children’s Museum. “This funding strengthens our ability to deliver the programs and services that have defined this organization for four decades and contributes meaningfully to our long-term sustainability as we look to the years ahead.”
The Manitoba Children’s Museum currently features 12 permanent galleries and a rotating selection of temporary exhibits that encourage creativity through play, culture and discovery. Its Explore Abilities Access Program offers sensory-friendly experiences for children with autism spectrum disorders and sensory processing differences, while the Free2Play Access Program provides free admission to families in under-supported communities, helping remove participation barriers.
“For nearly four decades, the Manitoba Children’s Museum has sparked imagination, curiosity and joy for thousands of children each year,” said Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Nellie Kennedy. “This funding helps ensure the museum remains a vibrant, welcoming place where kids can explore, learn and create through hands-on experiences that stay with them for life. The museum is more than a building, it’s a place where memories are made, where learning feels like play and where every child can feel included. We’re proud to help strengthen that legacy.”
The Manitoba government’s investment will help ensure the museum continues to enrich the lives of children and families who visit it, the minister noted. In 2024, the museum had over 144,000 visitors from across the country.
