Manitoba has set up an online portal that the provincial government says will make it easier for organizations to get a share of millions in new funding to build affordable housing projects.
The “housing starts here” portal is aimed at simplifying applications under a $26-million program that’s available to municipalities, not-for-profits and Indigenous groups.
The province says the fund will support the development of 350 social housing units this fiscal year, which ends March 31, 2025.
“(The) challenge we face today calls for a fresh new approach and the ability to quickly respond to the needs of our partners in the non-profit housing sector including Indigenous governing bodies and municipalities,” said Housing Minister Bernadette Smith, in a news release Thursday.
Groups can apply for forgivable loans to buy buildings for renovation, revamp derelict housing or build new units.
Applications for rent supplements and support services for those at risk of being without a place to live will be available on the portal as well.
Brian Pincott, chair of the Westminster Housing Society, applauded the funding and online process.
“This program not only provides more funding, but it facilitates processes that work for the housing providers, giving us the flexibility to take advantage of opportunities as they arise to help meet the growing need for safe, secure and affordable housing,” he said in the government news release.
Manitoba is increasing the proposal development fund to $5 million for non-profit organizations to access capital grant funding. The loans allow organizations to hire professional services to get their affordable housing proposals to the financing stage.
The fund allows grants of up to $250,000 and repayable loans of up to $50,000.
— staff