Economic Boost for Rural Communities

January 23, 2012

PROVINCE SUPPORTS RURAL COMMUNITIES WITH NEARLY $2.5 MILLION IN POST-FLOOD ECONOMIC STIMULUS GRANTS: KOSTYSHYN

Manitoba communities affected by the unprecedented flood of 2011 will receive much-needed financial support totalling nearly $2.5 million, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.  The minister will address delegates at the Keystone Agricultural Producers annual general meeting later this week in Winnipeg.
“We’ve always assured Manitobans that we would be there to help them recover from the destruction caused by the 2011 flood by supporting restoration projects and business,” said Kostyshyn.  “Through this Excess Moisture Economic Stimulus Program we are helping restore economic activity to levels at least equal to conditions prior to the flood.”
The minister said 42 grants have been issued in 34 communities.  They range from $1,000 to a maximum of $100,000.  The target projects offset the economic impact of excess moisture levels on communities, small and medium enterprises, and industry sectors, he added.
Projects include:

• restoring tourist facilities damaged by high water,
• establishing tourism promotion and marketing campaigns to announce popular holiday destinations throughout the province are once again open for business and the rescheduling of popular events,
• hiring economic-development officers to establish and co-ordinate strategic plans for residential and tourism redevelopment, and
• promoting ‘buy local’ campaigns to support local entrepreneurs.

“This grant program is an investment in the future of Manitoba and we are pleased to provide new supports to communities to help them rebuild and move forward,” said Kostyshyn.  “Community centres and tourist facilities are gathering spots for families and we want to ensure Manitobans have the opportunity to continue to enjoy the services they offer.”
A list of all the 42 approved projects can be seen at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/.

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