Thompson businesses now have a shot at up to $100,000 in funding to train employees and build stronger human resources plans, thanks to a new program from the federal and Manitoba governments.
Ministers announced the Building Up Manitoba Program on May 25, 2026. It’s backed by $4 million through labour market agreements and is open to small and medium-sized businesses with fewer than 500 workers. That covers 99 per cent of all Manitoba businesses, including many right here in Thompson.
The program combines two earlier supports – the Canada-Manitoba Job Grant and the Workforce Development Program – into one simpler application. Businesses can get up to $10,000 per employee for training costs, and another $25,000 to develop a human resources strategy. The total funding for any one business tops out at $100,000.
There’s a catch: the program pays only half the cost. Employers must cover the other 50 per cent. Applications are accepted anytime, but the first step is filling out an intake form to check if you qualify.
Federal Jobs and Families Minister Patty Hajdu and Manitoba Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses made the announcement. They said the goal is to help local companies deal with workforce challenges and economic pressures while helping people learn skills that lead to better jobs.
For Thompson, the program could be a big deal. As Northern Manitoba’s largest community, its businesses often have a tough time accessing training dollars. The Thompson Chamber of Commerce represents over 130 members, and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council already works on workforce development here. Both could point local owners toward this new funding.
