Provincial funding will help revitalize vital community infrastructure and strengthen local economy
June 12, 2026
ALGOMA-MANITOULIN — The Ontario government is investing $2.11 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help strengthen the local economy in the Algoma-Manitoulin region through three community infrastructure upgrade projects. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the NOHFC is making strategic investments to build stronger, healthier and more self-reliant northern communities by revitalizing important community infrastructure that will benefit residents for years to come.
“Today’s investments demonstrate the NOHFC’s role in driving impactful growth across northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Through support for key projects, we are strengthening strategic partnerships across the region.”
The NOHFC is providing funding to the following projects:
- $2 million for Batchewana First Nation to renovate the Rankin Arena, modernizing the facility and improving safety and accessibility. Activities include renovating the upper and lower floors, entrance canopy, lobby and concession area, washrooms and change rooms; making electrical, architectural, mechanical and structural upgrades; installing a new ice pad, dasher boards and refrigeration equipment; replacing the roof; and updating the elevator.
- $91,397 for the Township of Prince to rehabilitate its community centre, which houses the municipal offices, community hall, EarlyON Child and Resource Centre, public library and museum. The project includes repairing the electrical system, adding additional improved exterior lighting, paving the parking area and walkways and constructing a canopy at the entrance.
- $23,455 for the Township of Prince to repair the flooring in the fire hall, increasing the lifespan of critical emergency infrastructure.
“Our government is proud to support infrastructure projects in Prince Township and Batchewana First Nation that will enhance important community spaces and improve quality of life for residents,” said Bill Rosenberg, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma—Manitoulin. “These investments will help create modern, accessible facilities that bring people together, support recreation and community engagement, and strengthen communities for years to come.”
The Ontario government is 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 investment of an additional $30 million over 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 $1 billion in over 8,400 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,000 jobs.
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.
Quotes
- “The Rankin Arena has long been a gathering place for our community and these improvements ensure it will continue to serve future generations. Thanks to the support of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, we have been able to modernize and enhance this important facility through improved accessibility, energy efficiency and critical infrastructure upgrades. This investment preserves the arena’s historic role as a hub for recreation, culture and community events, while creating lasting benefits for Batchewana First Nation and the wider Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma region.” – Chief Mark McCoy, Batchewana First Nation
- “Prince Township is grateful for the support provided through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. The Community Centre and Fire Hall improvement projects have enhanced the safety, accessibility and functionality of some of our most important municipal facilities. Through these upgrades, residents, families, library and museum visitors, community groups and volunteer firefighters benefit from improved infrastructure that will serve the community for many years to come. These investments help ensure that our municipal facilities remain safe, accessible and welcoming while preserving valuable community assets for future generations. On behalf of Prince Township Council and residents, we sincerely thank the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and the Government of Ontario for their continued investment in rural northern Ontario communities.” – Megha Trivedi, Clerk- Treasurer, Prince Township
| Media Contact
Sam McCormick, Minister’s Office Media Relations, Communications Branch |
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