July 23rd 2025

Investment will help the community add a modern fitness facility to its arena for community members to stay active and healthy

MATTAGAMI FIRST NATION — The Ontario government is investing $611,041 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for the Mattagami First Nation to add a wellness centre to its arena. This state-of-the-art facility will provide opportunities for physical fitness, health education and community gatherings. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is helping northern communities build and improve community facilities to strengthen the local economy, protect jobs and provide safe, modern spaces for residents to stay healthy and active.

“Our government is proud to support projects such as this because community hubs in the North are important spaces for residents to come together and invest in their own health and wellbeing,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “At a time when people are looking for more ways to support their local communities and find activities close to home, the new wellness centre will be an important space where residents can navigate their fitness journeys, enjoy informative seminars and attend workshops”.

Mattagami First Nation will receive $611,041 through the NOHFC to help build a 2,550-square-foot facility that will be the first facility of its kind in the community. Residents will be able to use a gym equipped with exercise machines, free weights and workout stations, as well as change rooms, bathroom facilities and a canteen. Integrating cultural activities and traditional practices into the wellness center will also play a vital role in sustaining cultural heritage and fostering a shared sense of pride and connection within the community. The project directly contributes to the quality of life of residents by providing increased opportunities for physical fitness to the community, which has no similar facilities.

“This investment represents an exciting step forward for Mattagami First Nation. The new wellness centre will serve as a vibrant space where our members can come together, stay active and support one another on their health and wellness journeys,” said Devin Naveau, Council Member and CFO of Mattagami AKI. “Outfitted with modern fitness equipment, the facility reflects our community’s values and our shared vision for a healthier, stronger future. We are deeply grateful to the Ontario government and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for their support in helping us build infrastructure that empowers our members and strengthens our community.”

“Our investment in Mattagami First Nation’s new wellness centre is a reflection of our commitment to leverage every tool at our disposal to support multi-use facilities that become vital local pillars for northern and First Nations communities,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships. “By creating a space that encourages physical wellness, cultural connection and community engagement, we are strengthening community partnerships, as well as the social and economic fabric of the North.”

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 $939 million in 7,563 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.8 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 11,900 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.