Economic Development, Investment and Trade Minister Jeff Wharton launched Manitoba’s new Life Sciences Strategy at the BIO International Convention in Boston on June 6.
Developed with Bioscience Association Manitoba and consultations with the provincial biotech community, the strategy establishes “five strategic pillars essential to addressing barriers to growth and ensuring Manitoba’s bioscience sector reaches its full potential.”
The pillars include strong public-private partnerships; a future-ready skills and talent infrastructure; data and analytics excellence; world-class research and innovation; and increasing access to capital.
“The biosciences make extraordinary contributions to every aspect of our society and this new strategy recognizes just how vital this sector is to both our economy and our quality of life,” said Wharton. “Our government’s strategy prioritizes support to attract investment, grow partnerships, and cultivate a skilled workforce to ensure Manitoba’s bio-economy continues to thrive. I look forward to seeing the innovation and advances that will make a difference in the lives of Manitobans and millions of others around the world.”
The bioscience sector is one of the largest contributors to Manitoba’s economy, with 2021 revenues over $9.9 billion – and employs more than 14,000 Manitobans. Biotech products are the province’s top export.
“Bioscience Association Manitoba commends the Manitoba government for its leadership and recognition of the sector’s essential contributions to our economy, lives and livelihoods,” said Kim Kline, president, Bioscience Association Manitoba with the announcement. “New partnerships and investments will ensure that we continue to be innovative. We believe that the strategy has the potential to be transformative for the province’s economy and position Manitoba as a leader in this vital and growing industry.”
