NORTH BAY – The Ontario government is investing more than $3.4 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) in eight economic development projects in the Nipissing region. This investment will improve municipal infrastructure, expand business operations and create employment in Northeastern Ontario.

“Supporting community and business development creates jobs, keeps our region competitive and attracts new investment,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “Our government is helping companies and communities thrive and providing real opportunities for the people of the Nipissing District.”

The NOHFC is funding the following projects:

• $1,100,392 for Nexco Inc. to develop NexcoBase and NexcoBoost – innovative explosive products for the mining and construction industries that are greener for the environment and water resistant
• $775,000 for Corexplore Drilling Services to purchase two additional drills and support equipment for surface mining and exploration projects
• $523,738 for Martel & Mitchell Physiotherapy to purchase equipment, renovate existing facilities and build an adjoining new workspace
• $400,000 for Redpath Canada Limited – a mining construction and engineering company – to build an additional facility to increase repair work capacity
• $295,728 for Bur Oak Resources Inc. – a renewable energy company that provides solar, wind, and other energy solutions – to build a net zero manufacturing facility
• $200,654 for Capitol Centre – a visual and performing arts centre – to replace aging infrastructure, including HVAC systems, fire suppression and air quality control equipment, the loading door, and some windows
• $93,850 for Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. to purchase equipment and renovate its facility
• $90,480 for Mincon Canada – a machine shop that manufactures drill bits for the mining industry – to purchase equipment and renovate its facility.

“Our government is building strong, resilient and prosperous communities and businesses in Nipissing and across the North by investing in business expansions and community infrastructure upgrades,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development. “By working together with our northern partners, we continue to make Northern Ontario an attractive place to live, work, play and do business.”

The NOHFC promotes economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects—big and small, rural and urban—that stimulate growth, job creation and skills development. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $639 million in 5,265 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 8,420 jobs.

Quick Fact

• The Ontario government launched new and improved NOHFC programs that support more projects in rural northern communities and make it easier for more people and businesses to apply. The programs target existing and emerging markets, provide more work opportunities for Indigenous people and address 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.

Quotes

“Nexco is dedicated to developing next-generation explosives that could revolutionize not only Ontario’s mining industry but also create global opportunities. These innovative explosives promise cost savings, improved performance, and enhanced environmental and safety benefits. NOHFC’s support has been vital in helping us bridge the gap between concept and commercial production as we continue to explore this promising technology.” – John Burrows, President, Nexco Inc.

“Corexplore would like to thank NOHFC and the Ontario government for assisting in purchasing two additional clean-tech surface coring drills and support equipment to add to our fleet. This project helped create 16 full-time permanent jobs for hard-working Northerners.” – David Jones, President, Corexplore Drilling Services

“NOHFC funding support has been vital to our clinic expansion project. Our new clinical space has allowed us to recruit and hire three new regulated health professionals this year and grow our team and expand our rehabilitation service offerings.” – Michael Mitchell, President, Martel and Mitchell Rehabilitation Inc.

“We are immensely grateful to NOHFC for this generous grant which has allowed us to build a state-of-the-art facility in North Bay. This investment not only strengthens our commitment to creating jobs and economic growth in the region, but also underscores our unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the mining industry.” – Kevin Melong, Vice President, Shafts and Technical Services, Redpath Canada Limited

“Bur Oak Resources is proud to be part of the growing renewable energy industry and a leader in the North. We have been providing innovative custom energy solutions for our clients, helping them gain energy independence and security; and this new facility will allow us to significantly expand our offerings.” – Lance Johnson, President, Bur Oak Resources Inc.

“This NOHFC grant will allow us to move forward with upgrades and repairs to key infrastructure elements, including HVAC systems, windows, and doors. These systems will help our heritage building operate in a more energy-efficient manner and reduce our environmental impact while continuing to provide an accessible space that inspires, creates, and showcases performing and visual art forms.” – Katina Connolly, Executive Director, Capitol Centre

“This news of Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. receiving NOHFC funding comes at a very opportune time. Since 2020, we have been experiencing tremendous growth and this funding will be put to very good use in our planned expansion of the fur auction facility.” – Mark Downey, CEO, Fur Harvesters Auction Inc.

“Mincon Canada would like to thank the Ontario government and NOHFC for their continued support with funding towards the purchase of new and innovative equipment for our manufacturing facility. This equipment will improve our production efficiency and increase our capacity to produce product at a more affordable cost. The increase in productivity will create an opportunity for existing employees to expand their skilled trades experience and create new jobs in this field.” – Charlene Ylimaki, General Manager, Mincon Canada

Media Contacts

Curtis Lindsay, Minister’s Office — 437-240-7317 — curtis.lindsay@ontario.ca

Media Desk, Communications Branch — mediadesk.ndm@ontario.ca