Manitoba launches $176.5M rental housing tax credit program

Key Takeaways:

• Manitoba has launched a $176.5 million Rental Housing Construction Incentive (RHCI) to encourage private and non-profit developers to build new rental housing, including refundable tax credits of $8,500 per unit and an additional $5,000 for affordable units.
• Projects must have at least four units, remain rental housing for at least 10 years, and affordable units must meet income and rent thresholds set by the Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation.
• The program aims to expand rental options for working families, seniors, and other Manitobans, addressing housing demand while supporting dignity, security, and long-term affordability.

The Whole Story:

The Manitoba government announced a $176.5 million Rental Housing Construction Incentive (RHCI) on Thursday to encourage private and non-profit developers to build new rental housing across the province.

The program offers refundable tax credits of $8,500 per new rental unit, with an additional $5,000 available for units designated as affordable. Projects must include a minimum of four units to qualify and must remain rental housing for at least 10 years.

“For too long, affordable rentals have been out of reach for working families and seniors,” Premier Wab Kinew said in a statement. “By creating this incentive, we’re unlocking new housing supply and making sure every Manitoban has a fair shot at a safe, affordable place to call home.”

Affordable units under the RHCI must meet rent thresholds set annually by the Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation (MHRC) and be occupied by households with incomes below provincial limits — currently $67,900 for households without children and $90,500 for households with children or dependents.

Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith said the program addresses housing demand across the province. “By creating this new RHCI program, our government is supporting housing development to meet demand, so more Manitobans can build better futures for themselves and their children with dignity, security and opportunity,” she said.

Nathan Janzen, owner of Janzen Projects Inc., a local developer with an approved project, said the program will help expand housing options for seniors. “This program enables us to continue looking after Manitoba’s seniors by providing them with access to top-tier multi-family housing – spaces designed with their dignity, comfort and well-being in mind,” Janzen said.

The province will distribute the $176.5 million in tax credits over five years. Projects must maintain the number of units for which they received credits throughout the 10-year qualification period.