Funding will help develop work-related skills for in-demand jobs

October 21, 2025

MISHKEEGOGAMANG — The Ontario government is investing $894,305 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help Mishkeegogamang Ojibway Nation build a modular training centre in their community. This funding aligns with the government’s priority to protect and strengthen Ontario’s workforce by connecting Indigenous peoples to training opportunities that will prepare them for in-demand good-paying jobs.

“Our government is securing the province’s economy during these uncertain times by building a highly skilled and confident workforce in Northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This investment helps First Nations people of all ages access training close to home and develop new skills and supports northern prosperity.”

A workforce development centre in Mishkeegogamang Ojibway Nation will make it easier for Indigenous job seekers to gain relevant skills and for Indigenous workers to enhance their knowledge and adapt to industry trends. The new building will have seven multi-purpose rooms to enable training, workshops, events and meetings, and includes a kitchen, washrooms and storage spaces. This modern centre will help reduce labour shortages by offering programs, such as youth and elder traditional outdoor learning, adult work training programs and advanced project management classes.

“On behalf of Mishkeegogamang Ojibway Nation we are grateful for the opportunity to have a dedicated training facility for our community,” said Chief Merle Loon, Mishkeegogamang Ojibway Nation. “This facility brings a sense of progressive independence that will ultimately contribute to our nation’s growth. The Leadership of Mishkeegogamang Ojibway Nation shares its sentiments with the Northen Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation announcement with respect and appreciation.”

Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

Quick Facts

• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.
• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $983 million in 7,951 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.9 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,350 jobs.

Quotes

“Mishkeegogamang Ojibway Nation’s new training centre is creating real opportunities to build skills, find good jobs and contribute to the long-term prosperity for the community and the North. Through the NOHFC, we are partnering with communities and investing in the infrastructure and tools needed to deliver practical, locally driven solutions.” – Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.