NEWS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT AND MINES
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Ontario is building up northern communities by investing in a wide range of economic development, tourism and infrastructure projects.
With a total investment of $950,000 from the province's Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), 20 projects will receive funding in communities across the North.
The Hearst and Area Economic Development Corporation in conjunction with Constance Lake First Nation is receiving $97,540 to develop a mining readiness strategy.
The Town of Iroquois Falls is receiving $87,050 for a feasibility study on re-purposing the Resolute mill.
The Town of Kapuskasing is receiving $11,198 to complete a community strategic economic plan.
This funding is part of the largest infrastructure investment in Ontario's history -- more than $130 billion over 10 years, which is making 110,000 jobs possible every year across Ontario with projects such as roads, bridges, transit systems, schools and hospitals.
These much-needed investments are supported by a number of initiatives, including broadening the ownership of Hydro One - an approach that raises billions for infrastructure while ensuring consumers are protected.
By unlocking the value of provincial assets, the government is supporting critical projects in cities, towns, and rural and remote communities all across Ontario.
Supporting northern communitiesis part of the government's plan to build Ontario up.
The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.
“By investing in these projects, our government is helping communities find new opportunities for growth, repurpose older infrastructure and build on innovative ideas. These economic development projects represent the first step municipalities need to take to attract new investments,” said Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC.
“By identifying key factors that drive tourism in the North, we are able to equip businesses with the proper tools, and provide the training they need to take advantage of tourism opportunities. We commend the province for investing in projects that will strengthen the northern tourism sector for years to come," said David MacLachlan, Executive Director of Tourism Northern Ontario.
Quick Facts
- Since 2003, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in 6,870 projects in Northern Ontario, creating or sustaining more than 25,800 jobs.
- Research shows that every $100 million of public infrastructure investment in Ontario boosts GDP by $114 million, particularly in construction and manufacturing sectors.
- The NOHFC’s investments in economic development projects are part of the Ontario government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario.
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