Manitoba announces investments to address youth unemployment
Posted June 9, 2026 5:50 pm.
Last Updated June 9, 2026 7:00 pm.
The province, along with the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, announced a new program to encourage Manitoba businesses to hire youth. The $4.3 million boost will go towards addressing the increase in youth unemployment.
“I think a lot of kids in Manitoba and across the country are finding it tough to get that first job. So we want to help make it easier,” said Premier Wab Kinew.
Programs NextMB will invest $3.5 million towards youth aged 18 to 29 to support two streams: one for youth currently enrolled in post-secondary, and another stream for youth not in education, employment, or training. The program will provide supports such as career guidance, training in high-demand skills, and direct connections with employers.
“As a chamber, we can be that bridge between those looking for work and those that are looking for people to work, and thus began NextMB,” said Loren Remillard, the president and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.
Remillard did not specify the number of businesses that showed interest in the program, but the program will run for five years with a new group of youth brought in every year.
The announcement outlines the framework with no specific details on eligibility for youth, with more details coming in the next few months.
“We have to recognize that if we help one young Manitoban who’s struggling to find a future here, another that isn’t involved in the labour participation and doesn’t see a way to get back into it. If that program helps one or two of them, that makes a difference,” Remillard explained.
