IN 2019, a study showed that Indigenous people in Manitoba contributed $9.3-billion to the Manitoba Economy – a figure that’s only been growing since.
As a jurisdiction larger than many countries, Manitoba has been home to many Indigenous peoples with different cultures and languages – First Nations, Inuit and the birthplace of a new nation, the Red River Métis.
If there is a one defining difference, it is that the goals set out by leaders in that report make it clear that it’s about more than return on investment – it’s about how those proceeds will be reinvested in community.
“The primary value of economic development is in providing a means to reinvest in the cultural life and social services of the community for the benefit of all. An Indigenous- designed approach to economic development is emerging that emphasizes community success over individual success and improving the lives of everyone over enabling economic disparity. This approach encompasses an outlook that is inclusive of community and aligns with Indigenous cultures.”
This is an important perspective – because it incorporates, and answers the bigger question, of who and what we’re really doing this work for – for our community, and for our future.
The following pages include just a few remarkable projects that are in the works in Manitoba – a hopeful sign of many more good things to come.
Read the report at
