Winnipeg, December 22, 2025 – The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is pleased to see the Manitoba government expand its Business Security Rebate Program, providing up to $2,500 per location to help small businesses cover the cost of security upgrades or repairs related to property crime.
“For many small business owners in Manitoba, dealing with crime and safety issues has become an unavoidable cost of doing business,” said Tyler Slobogian, CFIB Senior Policy Analyst for the Prairies and Northern Canada. “Break-ins, vandalism, theft and repeat property damage don’t just affect balance sheets, they impact employee safety, customer experience and a business owner’s peace of mind. This rebate is a meaningful step forward.”
CFIB has been a leading advocate for stronger support for small businesses facing rising crime. According to CFIB’s recent report, Broken Windows & Broken Trust: The Impact of Rising Crime on Small Business, Manitoba small business owners have spent an average of $5,000 over the past two to three years on crime-related expenses, with some reporting much higher costs. Alarmingly, 60% of small business owners say crime around their business has increased in the past year.
Following the government’s initial $300 rebate announcement, CFIB immediately engaged with the Minister of Justice to push for a more robust program. The expanded rebate announced in Budget 2025 reflects ongoing conversations, data, and real-world experiences shared by Manitoba’s small business community.
The new program will help cover costs for security measures such as cameras, alarm systems, lighting, fencing, and repairs to broken windows and doors - expenses that add up quickly for small firms operating on tight margins.
CFIB also encourages businesses accessing the rebate to purchase security equipment locally whenever possible, supporting Manitoba suppliers and keeping investment circulating within the province.
“We came together with community stakeholders and business associations such as CFIB, to tailor this rebate to address the security needs of Manitoba's small businesses, workers and communities,” said Hon. Matt Wiebe, Minister of Justice and Attorney General.
While CFIB welcomes this expanded rebate, crime remains a complex issue that requires stronger enforcement, better coordination between governments, and improved response times. Manitoba’s small businesses want to focus on serving customers, supporting employees, and growing their operations, not constantly worrying about the next break-in.
CFIB looks forward to continued collaboration with the provincial government to ensure small businesses have the tools and support they need to thrive.
For media enquiries or interviews, please contact:
Tyler Slobogian, CFIB
204-979-1787
Tyler.Slobogian@cfib.ca
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