Province investing in skilled trades, community growth and business expansion in Northeast

AZILDA – The Ontario government is providing more than $4.5 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to eight economic development projects in the Nickel Belt region. This investment will improve municipal infrastructure, expand company operations and create jobs in Northeastern Ontario.

“Building a strong, connected Northern Ontario means investing in the people, businesses, and communities that fuel regional growth,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “With the help of the NOHFC, we are maximizing on partnership opportunities – from business and skills development to cultural and food sovereignty projects – leading to a brighter future for everyone.”

The NOHFC is funding the following projects:

• $2 million for the Carpenters and Joiners Union Local 2486 Building Corporation, located in Azilda, to transform its current office space into classrooms, as well as build a new facility that will house a training auditorium to double training capacity
• $793,633 and $675,275 for Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe Inc., located in Naughton, to purchase specialized drilling equipment to establish a First Nation-owned mining supply and service company
• $450,065 for Wahnapitae First Nation to revitalize and enhance its cultural grounds with landscaping and structural improvements to the arbour and seating area
• $199,168 for Nickel City Cheese to establish an artisan cheese factory in Chelmsford
• $198,538 for the Local Services Board of Cartier to purchase and assemble a new energy efficient prefabricated recreation centre
• $166,755 for the Capreol Curling Club to purchase and install an energy efficient ice plant
• $114,265 for Mattagami First Nation to purchase and install a greenhouse that will grow fresh produce year-round and improve food security.

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.

• The NOHFC’s Community Enhancement Program builds strong and resilient northern communities through targeted investments in critical infrastructure.
• The NOHFC’s Invest North Program boosts economic growth and attracts more investment by supporting business development, expansion and innovation.

 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

“The expansion of the Carpenters’ Regional Council Local 2486 Training Centre in Azilda is essential in assuring that the investment in Northern Ontario’s infrastructure and economy can be realized. This funding from the NOHFC makes training the future generation of tradespeople possible and will help ensure the project can be completed skillfully and safely by members of the Carpenters Union.” – Cameron Deering, Local Union Coordinator, Carpenters and Joiners Union Local 2486

“With the financial support from the NOHFC, Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe has acquired two industrial drills. The result of this endeavour has directly benefited Atikameksheng Anishnawbek members through employment and training opportunities and revenue generation. Many thanks for the support and confidence the NOHFC has shown to our newly formed corporation. Meegwetch.” – Aime Dimatteo, Chair, Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe Inc. Board of Directors

“The powwow arbour holds profound cultural and spiritual significance for us as Anishinaabe people. It is more than just a structure; it is a place to come together to share traditions, stories and ceremonies, ensuring our cultural identity thrives. Under its roof, we dance to the heartbeat of the drum, a sound that connects our past, present and future. The arbour stands as a symbol of our resilience, unity and connection to the land, embodying the teachings and values that guide us. It is a space where we strengthen our bonds as a community, pass on knowledge to future generations and welcome others to honour the beauty of our traditions. We feel incredibly fortunate to have this sacred space, and we are deeply thankful to the NOHFC and other funders who made it possible.” – Larry Roque, Chief, Wahnapitae First Nation

“We are deeply grateful for the approval and funding from the NOHFC for our new community centre. The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting isolation made it impossible to hold community events, severely impacting our fundraising efforts and forcing us to sell our older community centre. Without a gathering place, many residents have felt isolated, leading to a significant loss of community spirit in our small town. NOHFC funding for a new, smaller and more energy-efficient building will greatly benefit our residents. Once completed, we will resume community events, providing a space where everyone can gather and reconnect.” – Susan Loranger, Secretary and Treasurer, Local Services Board of Cartier

“We are deeply grateful to the NOHFC for the generous support and helping us replace the ice plant at the Capreol Curling Club. This critical upgrade ensures that our facility can continue to serve as a vibrant hub for curling and community events for years to come. This investment not only sustains our operation as we prepare to celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2028, but also demonstrates NOHFC‘s commitment to fostering recreational opportunities in Capreol and surrounding areas.” – Susanne Aylward, President, Capreol Curling Club

“Investing in food sovereignty is an investment in our future. When prioritizing access to nutritious food, we strengthen our communities and empower individuals to thrive physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally, creating a healthier, more resilient society.” – Devin Naveau, Councillor, Mattagami First Nation

Media Contacts

Erika Robson, Minister’s Office
erika.robson@ontario.ca

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