Innovate & Growth Conference

INNOVATE AND GROWTH CONFERENCE

Date: February 8, 2023

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Hotel Fort Garry - Provencher Room

12:30pm Registration

1:00pm Welcome & Greetings

1:10pm Economic Development Priorities of the Manitoba Métis Federation, the National Government of the Red River Métis

An overview of MMF economic development priorities and activities focused on procurement, promotion and pride. As well, highlights of MMF opportunities and supports available to Red River Métis-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.

More information at: www.mmf.mb.ca

Presented by: Lorne Pelletier, Senior Economic Advisor, Manitoba Metis Federation, National Government of the Red River Metis

1:30pm Introduction to Exporting and International Trade

Exporting can increase sales and profits but can also present challenges. This Presentation will provide an overview of the export process, outlining key concepts and important steps as you consider growing your business beyond Manitoba.

More information at www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca

Presented by: Debra Boyce, Trade Commissioner, Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)

2:15pm Break

2:30pm Innovate Canada Services

Navigating government funding and services can get overwhelming for businesses, so Innovation Canada created a suite of offerings to help entrepreneurs. This session will detail how entrepreneurs can access federal, provincial and non-governmental funding and other services to enable growth and innovation.

More information at www.ised-isde.canada.ca/site/innovation-canada

Presented by: Richard Tuck, Senior Innovation Advisor – Indigenous Firms - Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

3:00pm Canadian Digital Adoption Program (CDAP)

Three challenges threating the growth of Canadian businesses-Inflation, labour shortages and supply chain challenges. Hear about proven strategies to help your business be more profitable and programs that can give you access to expert advice and financing to increase sales, reduce costs, better manage inventory and more. The PPT will lead into the need to digitize which leads into CDAP.

More information at: www.bdc.ca/en/canada-digital-adoption-program

Presented by: Jonny Loewen, Manager, Business Centre - Business Development Bank of Canada

4:00pm Louis Riel Capital Corporation (LRCC)

LRCC delivers various programs available for the Manitoba Metis entrepreneurs & businesses. LRCC supports start-ups, expansions & growth, and mergers & acquisitions.

More information at: www.lrcc.mb.ca

Presented by: Paul Paradis, CEO - Louis Riel Capital Corporation

MMF Metis Entrepreneurship Initiative (MEI)

MEI was created to provide a comprehensive process by which Red River Metis citizens can access funding to launch or expand micro businesses, both part-time and full-time, and to provide them with business related training opportunities mentorship and guidance. The goal of the Initiative was to strengthen and build upon the long-standing tradition of Metis self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship and to further enhance a culture of entrepreneurship amongst Metis youth, Metis business owners and the Metis community at large.

This initiative provides financial, and training supports to three specific cohorts through three loan programs specific to the needs of the applicant:

- Youth Entrepreneurship Program (18-29 years of age)

- Small / Home-Based Business Program

- Metis Fishers & Trappers Program

More information at: www.lrcc.mb.ca/mmf-entrepreneurship-initiative

Presented by: Shaun Hampton, Manager of Entrepreneurship Initiatives, Louis Riel Capital Corporation

The Metis Women Entrepreneurship (MWE) Program

MWE was launched May 2022 and has since expanded to offer businesses, that are a minimum of 51% Red River Metis & Woman owned and controlled, up to $50,000.00 in financing, composed of a loan and grant portion. In collaboration with the Infinity Women Secretariat, the MWE Program also offers workshops, networking, and mentorship opportunities for Metis Women in Business across industries, of all ages or stages.

More information at: www.lrcc.mb.ca/metis-women-entrepreneurship-program

Presented by: Genevieve May, Business Support Officer, Metis Woman Entrepreneurship

Louis Riel Capital Corporation

4:30pm Metis Economic Development Fund (MEDF)

MEDF stimulates the economic development of Manitoba Metis businesses & entrepreneurs by providing equity and/or debt financing creating equity partnerships. MEDF concentrates on businesses and entrepreneurs which are in growth, expansion, or acquisition phases. The Fund may also invest in start-up ventures when the viability of the business outweighs the increased investment risk.

More information at: www.medf.ca

Presented by: John Coutris, CEO, Metis Economic Development Fund

4:45pm Networking Reception

6:00pm Adjourn

Host or Publisher Metis Economic Development Fund