Funding supports projects that will attract tourists to the region, create jobs and build strong, resilient northern communities
November 27, 2025
THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government is investing $1.64 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support nine recreation and entertainment projects that will help boost Northern Ontario’s tourism sector. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this investment will help protect and strengthen Northern Ontario’s reputation as a global destination for arts and culture, while welcoming guests from around the world and boosting the local economy.
“Now more than ever, people in and outside of Ontario are looking for new travel options and Northern Ontario has something for everyone, from beautiful views to year-round fun activities,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Tourism is an important part of the economy, and our government’s strategic investments will solidify Northern Ontario as a great tourist destination and support strong, self-reliant and resilient communities.”
This investment is supporting the following organizations:
- $444,767 for Hearst Golf Club to renovate its pro shop, patio and event space, enabling the club to stay open throughout the year, deliver an enhanced customer experience and be more cost-effective
- $200,000 for Lightwaves Technology Ltd. to enhance its event support services by buying a mobile stage and audio, video and lighting equipment, allowing for more quality events to be hosted in the Northwest
- $200,000 for Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc. to fix its boat launch and dock and remove old fuel tanks, enabling the marina to operate safely at full capacity and accommodate more boaters, kayakers, canoers and cruise ships on Lake Superior
- $200,000 for Le Club des As de Moonbeam to make safety upgrades and enhancements at its facility, including renovating the kitchen and improving the heating so the club can continue to host events and act as a chalet for snowmobilers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers
- $178,664 for the Township of Ear Falls to make its walking trails and waterfront safer and more accessible for community events and recreational activities
- $172,266 for the Township of Terrace Bay to do electrical work and install a new water pump that is better for the environment at Aguasabon Golf Club to facilitate automatic watering and help maintain good course conditions
- $118,825 for Sault Lock Tours Inc. to restore a double decker bus and help tourists explore Sault Ste. Marie more easily
- $76,632 for the Township of Ear Falls to upgrade the irrigation system at its golf course, as well as buy an industry-grade lawn mower, resulting in greater operational efficiency and a more attractive course
- $58,555 for the Kinsmen Club of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Inc. to fix and improve the accessibility of the Crystal Falls Boardwalk at Kinsmen Park, keeping visitors safe and allowing them to stay active through hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing.
“Our government is proud to support tourism projects across Northern Ontario that protect local jobs, strengthen communities and grow the region’s visitor economy,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “From revitalizing waterfronts and marinas to enhancing golf courses, parks and new tourism experiences, these initiatives help showcase everything that makes the North such a unique and welcoming destination. Together, we’re building a stronger tourism sector that will benefit families, businesses and communities across Ontario.”
The Ontario government is committed to prioritizing investments through the NOHFC 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
“The Hearst Golf Club is thrilled to have received funding support from the NOHFC. This investment has enabled us to give our half-century-old building a much-needed facelift, complete with new furnishings, upgraded plumbing and modernized electricity. This transformation has not only enhanced the overall functionality of our facility but also allowed us to better serve our members and community. We’re grateful for NOHFC’s commitment to supporting local initiatives and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional experiences for golfers and event hosts alike.” – Normand Lamontagne, Manager, Hearst Golf Club
“Lightwaves Technology is a trusted provider of audio and visual services and supports a wide range of tourism events in Northern Ontario. The NOHFC has helped us expand and provide more services to those hosting events and bringing visitors to our region. We are grateful to the NOHFC for their investment in our business and the tourism industry.” – David Valente, Owner, Lightwaves Technology
“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc., I would like to thank the Government of Ontario for investing and believing in our organization’s vision. Through the assistance provided by the NOHFC and other funding partners, Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina is able to proceed with the redevelopment of the boat launch at the marina. This project marks an important milestone in the ongoing Marina Renewal Process and will contribute to the sustainability of the organization and the community. Rossport Marina is committed to providing safe, quality access to Lake Superior for the enjoyment of community members, stakeholders and the public.” – Cathy Collinson, President and Board Chair, Rossport Harbour Non-Profit Marina Inc.
“The $200,000 grant from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation meant the world to us! It gave us the funding required to bring the renovation project to fruition. The trust that the NOHFC showed in our organization created the momentum for other sponsors and volunteers to hop on board. Thanks to unbridled enthusiasm among local businesses and individuals, the Club des As de Moonbeam is proud to say that the clubhouse renovation has been completed beyond our wildest dreams. We hope everyone stops in this winter to see our new space!” – Patrick Boulianne, President, Club des As de Moonbeam.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for its vital financial support. The redevelopment of the Waterfront Park paving and walking trail would not have been possible without this partnership, and the immense improvement has created a fully accessible, premier outdoor space for our community to enjoy.” – Kevin Kahoot, Mayor, Township of Ear Falls
“On behalf of the Township of Terrace Bay, I want to thank the Province of Ontario and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for supporting the electrical upgrades for our golf course irrigation system. This investment helps us modernize infrastructure, improve sustainability and enhance recreational opportunities for residents and visitors—while supporting tourism events that contribute to our local economy.” – Paul Malashewski, Mayor, Township of Terrace Bay
“We extend our sincere thanks to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for their generous support of Sault Lock Tours and the Big Ben Double Decker bus tour. With the NOHFC’s assistance, these initiatives have brought new energy to Sault Ste. Marie’s waterfront and downtown core—offering unforgettable experiences aboard the Miss Marie tour boat and the Big Ben bus while boosting tourism, creating jobs and celebrating Sault Ste. Marie’s rich heritage. This investment is helping build a vibrant, welcoming destination for visitors from across the province and beyond.” – Sheila Purvis, Sault Lock Tours
“The support from the NOHFC has been a tremendous boost for the Ear Falls Golf Course. This essential funding has allowed us to upgrade to an inground automated irrigation system and purchase a new specialty triplex tee mower, ensuring our course remains a high-quality attraction for residents and tourists.” – Kevin Kahoot, Mayor, Township of Ear Falls
“The Kinsmen Club of Sault Ste. Marie extends its sincere thanks to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for its generous support of the Crystal Creek boardwalk metal grating resurfacing project. This investment has allowed us to enhance a well-loved community trail and ensure it remains safe and accessible for residents and visitors for years to come. We greatly appreciate the NOHFC’s continued commitment to strengthening local recreation and improving quality of life in Northern Ontario.” – Scott Elgie, President, Kinsmen Club of Sault Ste. Marie
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.
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