As the province looks to grow its economy, Manitoba is looking to potentially enter the mining industry.

The province sent its largest delegation to this week’s Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) conference in Toronto. Premier Heather Stefanson says the conference, which runs from June 13-15, will allow them to look at potential investment opportunities regarding the province's mineral resources.

"Our government is firmly committed to regaining Manitoba’s status as a global leader in the sector and attracting new exploration and mining to our province," notes Stefanson. "As part of our Budget 2022 commitment to build our economy and focus on economic recovery and growth, we want to continue building on the exciting possibilities for mining development in Manitoba’s vast and untapped mineral resources."

The Manitoba government is also going to dedicate $10 million to the industry as a result of a partnership between the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) and the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF).

The delegation includes Stefanson, newly appointed Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt, Investment and Trade Minister Cliff Cullen, and departmental staff.

"We are taking a whole-of-government approach to show our commitment to the mining sector and positioning Manitoba on the world stage as a preferred mining destination," says Nesbitt. "Mining is a significant, long-time contributor to Manitoba’s economic prosperity and we recognize there is tremendous potential for additional investment and job creation in the sector."

Stefanson hopes the abundance of minerals and its strong renewable energy production will put the province in the position to succeed in the green energy sector.

For the full press release from the government of Manitoba, click here.