Ontario Investing Over $1.2 Million to Revitalize Community Infrastructure in Thunder Bay

September 11, 2025

Funding will help three community buildings make improvements to better serve residents and tourists in Northwestern Ontario

THUNDER BAY — The Government of Ontario is investing $1,223,500 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to revitalize important community infrastructure in the Thunder Bay region. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this funding is building stronger, healthier and more self-reliant northern communities by revitalizing local infrastructure, increasing local tourism and helping residents stay active and connected.

“Community enhancement projects and ensuring Ontarians can access welcoming spaces has become more important than ever as we face unprecedented economic uncertainty,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government is helping important cultural and community spaces keep their doors open to ensure people get the support they need, and Thunder Bay remains a great place to live and visit.”

As part of this investment, the Coopérative Centre Francophone de Thunder Bay Inc., is receiving $928,155 to replace its roof, upgrade its multi-service room and expand its community hall by 500 square feet. The Coopérative Centre Francophone is an important cultural asset and with the NOHFC’s support, the not-for-profit organization can deliver critical services, such as counselling, to Franco-Ontarians across the northwest and expand, as well as improve its programs.

Furthermore, the Vedic Cultural Centre is receiving $194,618 to upgrade its facility, including replacing the roof, installing a high-efficiency HVAC system and improving accessibility. As a safe and welcoming space, the centre serves the broader community as well as newly arrived families and students, providing essential social and moral support – helping them find housing, employment and build meaningful community connections.

Lastly, the Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society, which showcases Northwestern Ontario’s rich history, is receiving $100,727 to replace its two boilers. This upgrade will ensure energy efficiency and proper heating and cooling of the building, allowing the museum to continue hosting events, exhibits, tours and educational programs for tourists and residents.

“I’m pleased to announce over $1.2 million in funding to these three community-focused projects,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay–Atikokan. “By supporting important cultural, historical and recreational spaces, our government is helping to ensure residents have safe, welcoming places to gather, while strengthening tourism and economic growth in our region.”

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 Officesand Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.

Quotes

“We sincerely thank the NOHFC for its generous contribution to our construction project, carried out jointly with Canadian Heritage. While the roof represents the bulk of the work, these investments have also enabled us to carry out major renovations and improve our common areas. This project allows the Centre francophone to continue and fulfill its mission of uniting, welcoming and promoting the French-speaking community in Northwestern Ontario.” – Claudette Gleeson, President, Coopérative Centre Francophone de Thunder Bay

“We’re deeply grateful for the support from NOHFC, which is helping us enhance the Vedic Cultural Centre through vital upgrades including a new roof, improved HVAC system, energy-efficient windows, accessible doors and more. We are a non-profit organization that is welcoming to everyone. We proudly support Southeast Asian newcomers and share their rich cultural heritage with the broader community through our food programs and vibrant events like the Festival of India and Festival of Colours.” – Dr. Prashant Jani, Director, Vedic Cultural Centre

“The Thunder Bay Museum is grateful to the Province of Ontario for its generous support in replacing our aging boilers. This investment safeguards our historic building, enhances comfort and safety for visitors, staff and volunteers and ensures we can continue preserving and sharing our community’s heritage for generations to come.” – Scott Bradley, Executive Director, Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society