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Manitoba Government Increases Research Manitoba Funding in 2025 Budget to Strengthen Innovation and Economic Growth

Province Unveils Historic Boost for Research Manitoba, New Research Chairs, and IP Collective to Secure Manitoba’s Leadership on the Global Stage.

Winnipeg, MB – June 11, 2025 – The Manitoba government is making a bold move to position the province as a national and global leader in research and innovation, with a historic investment of $18.5 million in Manitoba’s research ecosystem. This includes a $5 million boost to Research Manitoba’s base operating budget, alongside major investments in Research Chair positions and the creation of a first-of-its-kind Intellectual Property (IP) Collective.

“Manitoba’s research community told us what they needed to grow and thrive—and we listened,” said Hon. Mike Moroz, Minister of Innovation and New Technology. “This investment is about more than dollars—it’s about people, ideas, and creating an environment where homegrown and international researchers can do their best work, right here in Manitoba.”

This year’s funding increase raises Research Manitoba’s total 2025–26 operating budget to $18.95 million, reversing nearly a decade of erosion that saw $35.5 million in cumulative reductions. It signals a renewed commitment to rebuilding the province’s research capacity, supercharging innovation, and ensuring economic opportunities stay in Manitoba.

Keeping Talent Here and Attracting the Best from Elsewhere
A significant portion of the funding will establish new Research Chair positions—a strategic move to both retain Manitoba’s top scientific minds and attract high-performing researchers from abroad, particularly as U.S. institutions face growing uncertainty and funding cuts.
“This is a turning point,” said Minister Moroz. “We’re not just protecting the future of research in Manitoba—we’re building a destination for global talent to thrive.”

Securing Manitoba’s Innovation Future
The announcement also includes funding to launch a Manitoba Intellectual Property (IP) Collective, which will ensure that innovations developed in Manitoba benefit Manitoba. In the 1960s, a University of Manitoba researcher developed canola—now a multibillion-dollar global commodity—but the IP was lost. This new initiative will help today’s researchers protect, commercialize, and grow their discoveries, ensuring Manitoba reaps the rewards.
“Today’s announcement reflects Manitoba’s dedication to building a vibrant, knowledge-based economy in our province. With this additional funding, we are empowering researchers to drive innovation, tackle pressing challenges, and build a stronger future for all Manitobans.”
Andrea Legary, Chair, Research Manitoba Board
 
“Investing in research is investing in the future of Manitoba. This funding increase will help fuel the creativity and expertise of our research community, ensuring we continue to lead in discovery and innovation that benefits families, businesses, and communities across the province.
Jennifer Cleary, CEO, Research Manitoba
A Vision for a Thriving, Innovation-Driven Manitoba
This strategic investment aligns with Manitoba’s broader vision to build an inclusive, knowledge-based economy that benefits all Manitobans—from students and researchers to entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
To learn more about Research Manitoba and its role in shaping the future of research and innovation in the province, visit:
🔗Province of Manitoba | News Releases | Manitoba Government Investing $18.5 Million Toward Making Manitoba An Epicentre For Research

 

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Contact:

Communications Department, Research Manitoba
info@researchmb.ca | researchmanitoba.ca

Research Manitoba

Research Manitoba promotes, supports, and coordinates the funding of research excellence and innovation in health, natural and social sciences, engineering, and the humanities in Manitoba. Research Manitoba supports local talent development by providing research support to early career researchers and graduate students, along with fostering strategic partnerships to strengthen research and innovation in Manitoba.