Boost for northern Ontario
The government of Canada has confirmed a commitment of more than $13 million to support economic development within Indigenous communities, businesses and organizations in northern Ontario.
Sault Ste. Marie member of parliament Terry Sheehan, representing the governing Liberal Party of Canada, noted that the funding flowing through FedNor will support a total of 22 projects across the northern Ontario region.
(The projects that are slated to receive funding are listed below.)
“To help kick-start northern Ontario’s economy, our government is making strategic investments to help communities and businesses capitalize on economic development and growth opportunities. Indigenous small and medium-sized businesses exemplify the ingenuity and drive that is at the core of the region’s entrepreneurial spirit,” Sheehan relayed.
The projects slated to receive funding include:
- Economic plans for Mobert First Nation and Red Rock First Nation
- Hiring of economic development staff for Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation and Wahkohtowin Development GP Inc.
- Asset mapping for Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations
- Support for new community centres and complexes for Webequie First Nation and Ojibway Nation of Saugeen
- New equipment for Seven Generations Education Institute
- Hiring of a training coordinator for Shwe Miikaan Corporation
The Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund will receive nearly $5 million for business development, including youth entrepreneurship, as part of the announced funding package.
