Just want to share my experience. So I applied under Family Stream sponsored by my first cousin in Winnepeg and I'm in Alberta as a contract worker for 2 years the time I applied (November 2009) but my application was refused. the reason stated was:
... you were not able to demonstrate that your ties to Manitoba are stronger than the ties you may have to Alberta where you have been working since 2007. As a result, your application for nomination by the Province of Manitoba cannot be approved because you failed to demonstrate your intention to establish permanently in Manitoba
So for those in the same boat, goodluck on your application and find ways to make your application strong so you won't get refused.
... you were not able to demonstrate that your ties to Manitoba are stronger than the ties you may have to Alberta where you have been working since 2007. As a result, your application for nomination by the Province of Manitoba cannot be approved because you failed to demonstrate your intention to establish permanently in Manitoba
So for those in the same boat, goodluck on your application and find ways to make your application strong so you won't get refused.