Museums and archives across the province can now access funds from the new Manitoba Heritage Trust Program through a dollar matching system.
Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox said that the new program will help heritage organizations build their own individual endowment funds to assist in their long term sustainability. She added that many museums serve as important icons and unique tourist destinations throughout Manitoba, and that the government wants to see those organizations thrive.
To participate, eligible organizations will be required to contribute a minimum of $2,500 to an established heritage trust. Working in partnership with the Winnipeg Foundation and other local community foundations, the province will then provide $1 for every $2 raised towards the organization’s fund.
The province says they will guarantee support up to $25,000 to organizations that raise $50,000. There is a combined total of $5M available, which will be administered over the next three years.
Jeff Wharton, MLA for Gimli and Minister of Municipal Relations, said that small community museums and heritage organizations already face a number of challenges such as a small donor base. He added that program ensures all areas of the province will have access to provincial support, and that by partnering together museums and archives can continue to preserve local history while offering education opportunities.
Rick Frost, the CEO of the Winnipeg Foundation, said that "this is an exciting initiative for all of Manitoba. Working in close collaboration with the Manitoba community foundations, we look forward to building long-term support for these important provincial heritage organizations".
The Winnipeg Foundation will be holding an introductory information session for those organizations eligible for the program tomorrow at the Viscount Gort Hotel in Winnipeg.
There are over 200 museums and archives in Manitoba, with over 75% located in rural areas. More information on the program, including how to apply, can be found at the Endow Manitoba website.
