Press Release
Local MP Don Rusnak is pleased with the recent announcement regarding FedNor.
Northern Ontarians will benefit from an increase of FedNor funding, worth $25 million over five years, that will create new jobs and business opportunities that diversify and strengthen the region’s economy.
This increased funding will support communities and businesses in Thunder Bay-Rainy River and right across Northwestern Ontario.
It will be invested in projects with the greatest potential to create new jobs and business opportunities for the middle class-and those working hard to join it.
Rusnak also highlighted the launch of the Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario, a targeted approach to economic development through innovation.
This strategy will focus on ways to build on the unique strengths and competitive advantages that Northern Ontario has in mining, resources, and agriculture, among other sectors.
The strategy will identify ways for these sectors to seize new opportunities in emerging industries, such as clean technology, and develop new businesses that will create the well-paying jobs of today and tomorrow for Northern Ontarians.
This regional strategy for Northern Ontario is part of the federal government’s Innovation and Skills Plan–an ambitious effort to make Canada a world-leading centre for innovation that will create more well-paying jobs and grow the middle class.
The goal of this plan is to encourage innovation and attract global investment in every region of the country.
Another goal is to provide Canadians with the support they need, wherever they live and work, to continuously learn, enhance their skill set, and be equipped for the jobs of the future.
The Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario will serve as the innovation and skills plan for this region.
Every region of the country eventually will have its own version of this plan, which reflects the unique strengths and opportunities of that region.
As part of this new approach to economic development through innovation, each of the country’s six regional development agencies, including FedNor, will be accountable for delivering meaningful results for the communities they serve.
Over the next five years, these agencies will invest in strengthening innovation capacity in every region of the country.
This regional approach will ensure that the jobs, opportunities, and prosperity that come with innovation benefit all Canadians.
“I am very pleased with our government’s commitment to Northern Ontario, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts this investment and strategy will have on the region,” Rusnak said.
