Manitoba NDP Loans $475K to Winnipeg AI Call-Screening Firm
Manitoba’s NDP government has offered a financial boost to a local tech startup. On March 18, the government approved a loan of $475,000 to JasperVOCAL, an innovative company based in Winnipeg. This venture specializes in artificial intelligence sales call screening targeted primarily at insurance firms.
Details of the Loan
The funding was granted under a provincial initiative aimed at supporting businesses that focus on enhancing productivity. According to Caedmon Malowany, a spokesperson for Jamie Moses, Manitoba’s minister of business, mining, trade, and job creation, the loan helps foster advancements within the province’s tech sector.
Previous Financial Support Initiatives
- In 2024, the Kinew government awarded a $10-million grant and a $13.4-million interest waiver to Winnipeg’s NFI Group to boost its manufacturing capabilities.
- A $15-million loan guarantee was provided to Palliser Furniture in 2025 to support job stability in Manitoba, despite the firm reducing its workforce by 20 positions.
About JasperVOCAL
JasperVOCAL is a startup currently employing five individuals. The company recently secured $995,000 in funding from local investors in Winnipeg. Marco Soares, the 21-year-old president and CEO, emphasized that their technology allows insurance companies to contact potential clients through automated calls, eliminating the need for outsourcing to call centers.
How the Technology Works
The AI-driven system adjusts the volume of calls based on demand and follows up persistently within the first few minutes of customer interest. Soares noted, “We keep calling them up to eight or ten different times.” If a prospective customer expresses genuine interest in buying insurance, the call is then transferred to a live agent.
Initial Focus and Political Connections
Initially, JasperVOCAL’s technology was designed for political campaigns, identifying potential voters. Soares mentioned, “We pivoted to the insurance industry because we saw the same application was needed there.” The company provided services for Damir Stipanovic, a Conservative candidate during the 2023 federal byelection for Winnipeg South Centre.
Leadership and Future Goals
Peter Smith, former chief financial officer, transitioned from his role in November 2025 to become president of Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative Party. He is still an investor and a director of JasperVOCAL, indicating ongoing commitments to both politics and innovation within the province.
Overall, this loan represents the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to nurture local businesses, particularly in the expanding tech industry, reinforcing the province’s strategic focus on economic development.
