In a bold move to take the province’s technological landscape forward, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has announced a significant reshuffling of his cabinet, emphasizing innovation and technology. This strategic pivot introduces the new department of Innovation and New Technology, steered by Mike Moroz, tasked with boosting Manitoba’s burgeoning tech sector and modernizing governmental services.
Elevating Manitoba’s Tech Profile Despite its relatively modest size compared to other Canadian tech hubs, Manitoba’s tech industry is a burgeoning field with significant economic contributions and promising growth potential. In 2021, the province’s information and communication technology sector added approximately $1.8 billion in gross domestic product and supported 9,300 jobs, as reported by Tech Manitoba. This highlights the critical role that technology plays in the regional economy and underscores the importance of the new cabinet focus.
Winnipeg: A Growing Innovation Hub The capital city of Winnipeg is increasingly recognized as a dynamic center for tech innovation. Home to Canadian challenger bank Neo Financial, the city saw the launch of an innovation hub in 2021. Illustrating the rapid growth of the tech sector, Neo Financial recently announced a substantial $362 million CAD in Series D financing following its recognition for extraordinary revenue growth on Deloitte’s Technology Fast 50 list.
Neo Financial, founded by the creators of the successful food delivery app SkipTheDishes, has roots that trace back to Winnipeg itself. SkipTheDishes was not only founded in Winnipeg but also achieved substantial success, being acquired by Just Eat in 2016 for $110 million.
Strategic Direction and Future Prospects The creation of the Innovation and New Technology department under Mike Moroz’s leadership is a testament to Manitoba’s commitment to nurturing its tech ecosystem. This initiative not only aims to enhance the province’s tech industry but also to streamline and modernize the delivery of government services, positioning Manitoba as a forward-thinking province ready to tackle future challenges with innovative solutions.
With these changes, Premier Kinew reinforces his commitment to transforming Manitoba into a hub for technological innovation and government modernization, promising a brighter future for the province’s economy and its residents.