Province investing in community improvements, business expansions and internship opportunities in Fort Frances and beyond
FORT FRANCES – Through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), the Ontario government is providing more than $1.8 million to 10 economic development projects and more than $607,000 to 19 internships in the Fort Frances region. These investments will build cultural spaces for First Nations communities, expand company operations, and bring innovative business solutions to Northwestern Ontario.
“With the help of the NOHFC, our government is creating more community enhancement and skills development opportunities than ever before,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and MPP for Kenora–Rainy River. “Whether it’s investing in business ventures, supporting enhancements to the 52 Canadians Ice Rink, or replacing the pumping system at the Dawson fire station, we continue to be a trusted partner in the Northwest.”
The NOHFC is funding the following economic development projects:
- $500,000 for Fort Frances Tribal Area Health Authority Inc., also known as Giishkaandago’Ikwe Health Services, to build indoor and outdoor cultural spaces for its Wiidookodadowin Women’s Shelter
- $500,000 for Mitaanjigamiing First Nation to repair, renovate and build an addition onto its Cultural Roundhouse
- $144,224 for Town of Fort Frances to replace essential parts of the ice plant for the 52 Canadians Ice Rink at the Fort Frances Memorial Sports Centre
- $200,000 for Agombar Topsoil and Mulch to establish a mulch and topsoil products manufacturing business in Emo
- $181,901 for the Town of Rainy River to purchase equipment to establish an outdoor facility next to the Rainy River Recreation Centre that can host community events and programs
- $164,330 for Daryl’s Custom Landscapes Ltd., located in Fort Frances, to expand its facility by building additional space for storage and servicing
- $72,000 for the Township of Dawson to upgrade its fire station to provide year-round service by updating the pumping system and installing larger pipes, an insulated water tank and insulated shed
- $40,641 for RRM Customs to establish a custom parts manufacturing business in Rainy River that provides water jet cutting, laser engraving and vinyl cutting services
- $39,000 for the Rainy River Future Development Corporation to purchase a new software platform for its membership loyalty program, Go Local
- $14,646 for MJ Interactive, located in Emo, to purchase an inflatable event tent, staging, lighting and other equipment to provide full-service event services.
Internships receiving NOHFC funding include:
- $35,880 for Oltsher Automotive Ltd., located in Barwick, to hire a Truck and Coach Technician Apprentice
- $25,116 for Cannect Electric, located in Fort Frances, to hire an Electrician Apprentice
- $25,116 for TG Building Construction & Renovations, located in Emo, to hire a Carpenter Apprentice.
The NOHFC fosters economic growth, job creation and workforce development throughout the North, benefiting communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $864 million in 7,028 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.5 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 10,932 jobs.
Quick Facts
- The Ontario government’s improved NOHFC programming supports more projects in rural northern communities and makes it easier for more people and businesses to apply. The programming targets existing and emerging markets, provides more work opportunities for Indigenous people and addresses the skilled labour shortage in the North.
Additional Resources
- The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres are available to support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and assist in accessing government funding programs.
- Full list of the 19 Fort Frances region internships receiving NOHFC funding.
Media Contacts
Erika Robson, Minister’s Office
erika.robson@ontario.ca
Media Desk, Communications Branch
mediadesk.ndm@ontario.ca