$1.8 million through PrairiesCan will empower Francophone communities across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba grow and diversify their economies

October 20, 2023 – Edmonton, Alberta – PrairiesCan

Francophones have a long, deep, and rich history on the Prairies—enriching the linguistic, demographic, and economic fabric of communities across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. The Government of Canada is making investments that enhance the vitality of francophone communities across the Prairies and assist as they grow their local economies.

Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, on behalf of the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced a federal investment of $1.8 million for a Francophone Economic Development Fund to support projects that have a positive impact on Francophone communities.

Over the next three years, the fund will provide financial support for not-for-profit organizations to advance priorities focused on economic development and diversification—including trade and investment, economic immigration, the green economy, youth, and tourism.

The fund will be administered by Conseil de développement économique de l’Alberta, in partnership with Conseil de développement économique des municipalités bilingues du Manitoba and Conseil économique et coopératif de la Saskatchewan.

Today’s investment is expected to fund 30 community-based projects, support about 150 jobs, and leverage an additional $5.5 million in community-based investments.