3.17 – Introduction deck – Annex I: Programs – Investment examples
- PrairiesCan has been a source of early capital for innovative scaling companies at a critical developmental stage like PurposeMed, based in Calgary, Alberta. In 2023, PrairiesCan invested $3.5 million to help scale-up operations and extend delivery of complex telehealth solutions to at-risk and underserved communities in Canada. Today, PurposeMed has completed successive capital raises and is among the fastest growing Canadian companies in the life science sector.
- Innovative pilot training program in Northern Saskatchewan creates pathway to good jobs for Indigenous workers in their Northern communities, while improving transportation services in remote areas. More trained pilots will help improve flight services in Northern Saskatchewan communities, which includes access to and from the growing mining and energy sector in the Athabasca Basin. This PrairiesCan investment of $630,000 is helping future Indigenous pilots secure high quality local jobs.
- The revitalization of Portage Place represents an opportunity to address Winnipeg’s housing needs while advancing Indigenous reconciliation and creating welcoming spaces for all communities. In 2023, PrairiesCan announced $10 million in federal support for the creation of retail, food, and community spaces within the broader redevelopment of Portage Place. These spaces will be available to entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds who are seeking to start new businesses, and to not-for-profits offering social and wellness services to the community.