Introduction

Located in the heart of North America is a land of economic and cultural diversity, a place where natural resources are plentiful and the people have created a rich and vibrant society.

The place is Manitoba – a province of inland seas and waves of grain, advanced research and enchanting historic sites, and home to innovators in business, science and the arts. Whether by fibre-optic cable, air, rail, road or sea, Manitoba is connected to markets around the world, yet a lakeside retreat is never more than an hour’s drive away. Manitoba is a place that offers the advantages of big-city life, without the disadvantages. With low costs for land and power and some of the most affordable housing in Canada, Manitoba is a place where a dollar goes far.

Manitoba has great strength in its wealth of hydroelectric power, diverse manufacturing base, rich mineral resources and fertile soil. However, the greatest strength resides in the people of Manitoba, people who retain the values of community and responsibility that built our province, while shaping a future through innovation, productivity and risk-taking.

Manitoba is connected to markets around the world, yet a secluded retreat is never more than an hour’s drive away.

Manitoba Facts

Political Leader:	Premier Greg Selinger
Area:	649,947 square kilometers (250,946 square miles)
Total Population:	1,208,000
Capital City:	Winnipeg (population  712,700) Mayor, His Worship, Sam Katz
Unemployment Rate (2008):	(Manitoba) 4.2%, (Canada) 6.1%
Major Industries:	Manufacturing, Agriculture, Mining, Electric Power, and Other.
Major Manufacturing Sectors:	Primary metals, food & beverages, transportation equipment, machinery, chemicals, plastics/rubber, wood/paper, furniture, fabricated metal products, electrical & electronics, printing & related, petroleum/coal, clothing/textiles, non-metallic mineral products
Real GDP at Market Prices (2008)	CDN $42.3 billion
Real GDP (% Growth) 2008:	2.5%
Exports (forecast 2008):	CDN 12.7 billion
Natural Resources:	Abundant fresh water, hydroelectricity, base metals (nickel, copper, zinc, gold), fishing, forestry, oil, other minerals.
Agricultural Products:	Hogs, cattle, canola, wheat, dairy products, oats, poultry, eggs, barley, and flaxseed.