A method comprising sintering a Mn and Bi powder compact at a first temperature for a first predetermined duration, based on the first temperature, and sintering the compact at a second temperature, less than the first temperature, for a second predetermined duration, greater than the first duration, is disclosed. The sintering at a first temperature for a first predetermined duration generates a predetermined MnBi LTP transition driving force to decrease a formation energy barrier for transition to MnBi LTP. Sintering the compact at the second temperature for the second predetermined duration forms a magnet containing the MnBi LTP.