The City of Brandon, in collaboration with the Manitoba Department of Labour and Immigration, is introducing a new immigration initiative called the Brandon Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program Immigration Initiative (BMPNP II).
According to a media release, “This program aims to address skilled labour shortages and business succession challenges in the region, thereby enhancing the local workforce and contributing to long-term economic growth.
Initially, the program will focus on meeting labour needs in the healthcare and construction sectors, with flexibility to adjust based on evolving community needs. Additionally, the program aims to attract international entrepreneurs interested in starting or acquiring eligible businesses in Brandon.”
BMPNP II will actively seek to diversify the countries of origin for participants, welcoming skilled individuals and entrepreneurs from various international backgrounds to enhance Brandon’s workforce and cultural landscape.
BMPNP II is a renewable 3-year partnership, with 150 immigration spots allocated for 2024/2025, and 100 spots for both 2026 and 2027. These spots are part of the provincial nominee program’s annual allocation, aimed at addressing workforce gaps in Brandon. BMPNP II program will offer two streams to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs to Brandon. International skilled workers with in-demand skills will be eligible for community endorsements. International entrepreneurs will also be able to apply, provided they invest at least $150,000 in a qualifying local business. Endorsed candidates in both streams will receive priority in the provincial nomination process.
For both streams, the City of Brandon will provide community endorsements, and the Province of Manitoba will evaluate and nominate candidates who meet provincial requirements. Final approval of an applicant’s admissibility to Canada will be determined by the federal government. To avoid duplication and fill gaps, applicants already eligible for an existing MPNP stream will not be eligible for BMPNP II. The program is specifically designed to address Brandon’s unique labour market needs.
Details on the application process, eligibility, and how to apply will be available online at Home – Economic Development Brandon by the end of November 2024. Brandon City Council has endorsed BMPNP II, and the Director of Economic Development will be the lead official responsible for the program’s implementation.
