July 24, 2025
Investment will help hundreds of Ontarians gain valuable work experience for good-paying in-demand jobs
THUNDER BAY — The Government of Ontario has invested more than $8.7 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) since April 2024 to help 266 job seekers across Northwestern Ontario gain internship work experience that will help them launch rewarding careers. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is connecting people to rewarding career development opportunities to build a talented workforce that can meet the needs of Northern Ontario’s growing economy.
“Internships are great learning opportunities that let people hone their skills and develop new ones, giving them real-world experience and the competitive edge they need to secure good careers,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This investment is only one of the many actions our government is taking to support and grow Northwestern Ontario’s economy and protect Ontario workers by ensuring they can remain adaptable, resilient and highly skilled for whatever comes our way.”
Internship projects that received funding include:
- $35,000 for Lakehead University to take on a Sustainability Intern who will encourage participation in sustainability programs, such as recycling initiatives and clothing exchanges, plan and host events and contribute to the university’s Office of Sustainability social media accounts
- $35,000 for the Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce to employ a Special Events and Marketing Intern who will create social media content and help organize programs and events for the community, including a new residents program, cultural and sports events, farmers markets and trade shows
- $35,000 for Mitaanjigamiing First Nation to hire a Community Technology and Implementation Intern who will maintain its internal database, set up and update software and assist with creating technological systems and programs
- $35,000 for Resource Equipment Sales to bring on a Mechanic Intern who will service, customize and fix mining gear
- $31,096 for Greenmantle Forest Inc. to hire a Field Forester Intern who will assist with the forest renewal program, monitoring surveys, demarcation and gathering and recording information about forests.
Funding was provided to organizations through the NOHFC’s Workforce Development Program, which is designed to help people who are entering the workforce, transitioning to a new career, unemployed or underemployed. The program helps to address labour market gaps by supporting internships in key sectors, such as construction, manufacturing and mining, among others.
“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we’re protecting Ontario workers by making targeted investments that connect job seekers with training, experience and the opportunity to pursue good-paying careers,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “These internships are a springboard for people to find jobs in their local economy, while protecting the future of Northern Ontario.”
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’s Workforce Development Program has approved more than $90 million, leveraging more than $62 million in investment and supporting more than 2,700 work placements in Northern Ontario.
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
“Through the NOHFC’s People and Talent Program, Lakehead University has hired a recent graduate for an internship in the Office of Sustainability. This role will provide vital support in developing Lakehead’s new sustainability plan and implementing initiatives to combat climate change and excess consumption. As a talent pipeline for the North, Lakehead is grateful for the NOHFC’s support in retaining our skilled graduates and boosting the local economy.” – Dr. Andrew P. Dean, Vice-President, Research and Innovation, Lakehead University
“We are extremely pleased with the NOHFC internship program and our new hire. We have been working together to plan and execute many great events, including the Sioux Lookout Blueberry Festival and our newest program, a New Resident Night, has been very successful as we have hosted approximately six nights that bring people together to welcome them to our community. We have also been updating our websites and our Facebook page so we can promote the municipality and the Chamber of Commerce to locals and visitors alike.” – Christine Hoey, Treasurer, Sioux Lookout Chamber of Commerce
“The contribution from the NOHFC to our Community Technology and Implementation Intern was essential to that project being started and its continuing success. As a progressive community, we strive to utilize leading edge technology that supports our continued growth and self-sufficiency. The IT intern project provides us with the opportunity to learn about new technologies and implement it in our organization.” – Liam Kent, GDW Admin, Mitaanjigamiing First Nation
“Dealing with the people at the NOHFC was easy and very pleasant. Without the grant that the NOHFC provided, I don’t believe that we would have been able to move ahead with hiring a new Mechanic Intern.” – Frank Crites, President, Resource Equipment Sales
“With funding from the province, Greenmantle Forest Inc. has been able to offer competitive wages to hire and retain local talent to our forest management team. This partnership has enabled us to provide growth and development skills to our Forester Intern in various aspects of forestry, ensuring that we gain a value-added, talented young team member to our company. The NOHFC’s support is helping us maximize our operational effectiveness in the industry, while actively contributing to the betterment of our community in Northern Ontario.” – Joe Ladouceur, General Manager, Greenmantle Forest Inc.
| Media Contact
Charles Payne, Minister’s Office Media Desk, Communications Branch
|
news.ontario.ca/MNEDG/en |
