According to Canada.ca, Prairies Economic Development Canada is providing over $3.2 million through the Regional Defence Investment Initiative to support RRC Polytech’s Manitoba Defence and Dual‑Use Innovation Bridge. The project is a two‑year collaboration with Manitoba Aerospace Inc. and Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters – Manitoba.
The release says the initiative will help Manitoba firms understand government purchasing processes, cybersecurity and controlled‑goods security requirements, and prepare to bid for defence contracts. It also aims to identify dual‑use technologies and connect smaller companies with larger defence businesses and potential buyers.
Canada.ca reports the government expects the project to support about 100 Manitoba small and medium businesses and to create 90 jobs over two years; the release describes those figures as forecasted outcomes. The announcement was made by MP Doug Eyolfson on behalf of Minister Eleanor Olszewski.
