MB: ‘Back to Work’ wage subsidy program extended

On September 14, the Manitoba government expanded its ‘Back to Work’ in Manitoba Wage Subsidy Program. Through the Back to Work initiative, private-sector and non-profit employers can receive up to $100,000 to subsidize 20 employees (up to $5,000 per employee) hired since July 16.

The existing program was extended by two months until December 31 and employers are now able to rehire students previously hired through the Manitoba Summer Student Recovery Jobs Program, Canada Summer Job Program and Green Team Program. The province confirmed new start-up companies are eligible, providing they have a business number.

To date, the Back to Work Manitoba initiative has received more than 800 applications from employers for 4,500 positions and $22.6 million in supports. Some of the top participating sectors include retail trade (16 per cent), agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (12 per cent), and accommodation and food services (eight per cent).

Programs include the $120-million Manitoba Gap Protection Program, which provides a one-time $6,000 non-interest-bearing forgivable loan to eligible Manitoba small- and medium-sized businesses; $120 million for the Back to Work This Summer initiative and Summer Student Recovery Jobs Program; and $350 million for infrastructure construction projects as part of the two-year, $500-million Manitoba Restart Capital Program.

For more information, please visit the Government of Manitoba’s Website.