Thursday, December 11, 2025
The Government of Manitoba announced the establishment of the Manitoba Crown–Indigenous Corporation (MCIC), a first-of-its-kind partnership that will lead major economic development and trade corridor projects, including the expansion of the Churchill Plus project.
“Churchill has always been a gateway to the world. For generations, people have seen its potential but what was missing was the partnership to bring it to life,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “MCIC is how we turn that potential into real progress — building stronger partnerships, strengthening trade connections and creating opportunities that start in the north and benefit all Manitobans and Canadians.”
The premier noted the corporation represents a new approach to Crown–Indigenous partnerships in Canada. MCIC will guide the next phase of the Churchill Plus project and ensure Indigenous leadership is at the centre as the project moves forward. It will also support the continued collaboration between the Manitoba government and the federal Major Projects Office as it works to develop and advance the project. The Manitoba government continues to work with First Nations leadership, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and the Manitoba Métis Federation as it prepares to introduce legislation in March 2026 to formally establish the corporation.
In September, Prime Minister Mark Carney named the Port of Churchill as first five proposals considered of national interest to be referred for speedy approval by the Major Projects Office.
Once established, MCIC will co-ordinate the Churchill Plus project, support shared decision-making, ensure transparent development processes and advance opportunities that benefit Indigenous communities and Manitoba’s economy. The corporation will help enhance consultation with Indigenous communities and ensure the project reflects environmental stewardship and Indigenous knowledge.
As part of the broader work tied to Churchill Plus, the Manitoba government is also providing a $250,000 investment to study the potential for a marine protected area in Hudson Bay in partnership with the federal government. The governments of Canada and Manitoba are also funding a feasibility study on the use of specialized icebreakers to extend the shipping season.
The Manitoba government will host a town hall in Churchill in February to hear from local leadership, residents, stakeholders and surrounding communities about how improvements for the rail line and port project will benefit the community and to share information about the process.
Featured image: (Arctic Gateway Group)
