Manitoba Métis Federation acquires former research council buildings

The Manitoba Métis Federation purchased the former National Research Council building and adjacent research-council properties in downtown Winnipeg on Friday ^[1].

This acquisition marks a significant expansion of the organization's physical presence in the city's core. By securing these assets, the federation is positioning itself to influence urban development and increase its operational capacity within the province.

The properties include the former National Research Council building located in downtown Winnipeg ^[1]. The purchase was announced during a broadcast of CTV News Winnipeg at Six on July 10 ^[1].

According to the announcement, the move is part of a strategic effort to grow the real-estate footprint of the Manitoba Métis Federation ^[1]. The organization intends to use this new foundation to prepare for future development projects in the region.

One such objective involves the historic Fort Garry Hotel. The federation is eyeing a potential bid for the landmark hotel as it continues to expand its holdings in the city ^[1].

The acquisition of the research council buildings provides the federation with a strategic foothold in a high-value area of Winnipeg. This allows the group to manage more assets directly, and potentially create new spaces for community or administrative use.

Officials said the purchase is linked to a broader vision of economic empowerment and institutional growth. The transition of these former federal research facilities to Métis ownership represents a shift in the ownership of key downtown infrastructure ^[1].