The Métis Economic Development Fund (MEDF) stimulates the economic development of Manitoba Métis businesses & entrepreneurs by providing equity and/or debt financing creating equity partnerships. MEDF concentrates on businesses and entrepreneurs which are in growth, expansion, or acquisition phases. The Fund may also invest in start-up ventures when the viability of the business outweighs the increased investment risk.

MEDF Directors:
Bob Penwarden, Chair
Wayne Rivers, Vice-Chair
Elizebeth Palfrey, Secretary/Treasurer
Stan Higgins, Board Member
Crystal Adamson, Board Member
MEDF Staff:
John Coutris, Chief Executive Officer
Erica McDonald, Office Manager
MMF Ex Officio:
David Chartrand, MMF President and Minister of Economic Development
MEDF pursues the following objectives in the course of achieving our mission:
- Providing equity for Métis entrepreneurs and businesses
- Promoting and encouraging trade and commerce for Métis entrepreneurs and business
- Facilitating and promoting the Métis business community
- Maintaining liaison between the Métis business community and Government agencies and representatives at Municipal, Provincial and Federal levels
- Support and encourage Métis community economic development initiatives
Investment Criteria
Corporations funded under this program must:
- Be owned and controlled by individuals who reside in Manitoba with Métis ancestry proven through genealogy.
- Have an experienced, well-balanced management team.
- Submit a comprehensive business plan outlining the product and service offering, with a well-defined market with growth potential and a clearly defined exit strategy.
- Be economically viable and able to provide a positive return on investment to the Métis entrepreneur, communities and the Fund (non-profit businesses will not be considered).
Nature of Funding
Financing is available up to $500,000 with an anticipated holding period between 3 to 7 years (up to 10 years) and a maximum ownership of 35% of the fair value of the corporation. A variety of financing instruments could be utilized and tailored to meet the specific needs of each opportunity.
Forms of Financing
MEDF invests capital in the form of equity and/or quasi-equity to Manitoba Métis businesses. The Funds investment and ownership is formalized through the following financial instrument(s):
common and/or preferred shares, convertible preferred shares, convertible debentures, subordinate debt, and/or other as agreed to by MEDF.
How to Apply
We want to hear from you! Call us today at (204) 589-0772 or toll free at
1 (800) 387-6004 to start your business opportunity conversation and take advantage of the funding opportunities available to you.
The Fund is accepting applications from Manitoba Métis entrepreneurs and businesses.
Contact Information
Check us out online and join one of our social networking sites. While there, ensure to subscribe to our mailing list to receive all the upcoming exciting news & events taking place.
All specific MEDF inquiries should be directed as follows:
Website: www.medf.ca
Email: info@medf.ca
Phone: (204) 589-0772 Ext: 2241
Toll Free: 1 (800) 387-6004
Mail: Metis Economic Development Fund
340-150 Henry Avenue
Winnipeg MB R3B 0J7
Fax: (204) 589-0791
Social Networks:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MEDFInc
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/metis-economic-development-fund
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Metis-Economic-Development-Fund-Inc/466958013345917
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ckQjArBuKyyXVOqQ207rQ