First Nations receive funding support from FedNor for economic development initiatives
Matawa First Nations Management
A FedNor investment of $216,032 in Matawa First Nations Management will be used to hire a mining advisor to help its nine member communities to capitalize on mining opportunities in their respective territories.
Municipality of Sioux Lookout
A FedNor contribution of $66,667 will enable the Municipality of Sioux Lookout, in partnership with 29 area First Nations, to determine the feasibility and regional economic benefits of establishing an urban reserve within the city. The term, urban reserve, refers to the federal designation of land within city boundaries for economic development purposes by one or more First Nations.
Muskrat Dam First Nation
Muskrat Dam First Nation will use $25,000 in FedNor funding to assist with a feasibility study for the development of a run-of-the-river hydro development project near the community at Windigo Falls. The focus of this project will be on assessing the business aspects of the project including financial modeling, capital cost estimates and the review of current diesel operations.
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FedNor press release
Government of Canada investments strengthen Red Lake and Kenora region
RED LAKE, Ontario, August 30, 2010 — The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced a FedNor investment of more than $710,000 in support of small business and First Nations initiatives in the Red Lake and Kenora region (see attached information sheet). While in the community, the Minister also participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the official opening of the Red Lake Skate Park, a funding recipient of the Government of Canada’s Recreational Infrastructure Program.
“Our Government is committed to helping small and medium-sized businesses grow and create new jobs right here in Red Lake through the Chukuni Communities Development Corporation,” said Minister Clement. “FedNor is investing in CFDCs and area First Nations to provide them with the tools they need to strengthen the economy.”
Of the total FedNor contributions announced, $375,000 will support small, regional community economic development projects, as well as the ongoing operations of the Chukuni Communities Development Corporation, enabling it to offer business support services and access to capital for small and medium-sized business for a one-year period. The remainder of the funding will help First Nations communities capitalize on development opportunities.
“These targeted contributions will address specific community needs, which will pave the way for growth,” added Greg Rickford, Member of Parliament for Kenora. “By investing in small business, youth and strategic planning, the Government of Canada is helping to strengthen the regional economy and build a brighter future for all.”
“We are proud of our 22-year history of helping to diversify our region, one business at a time,” said Gary Ripley, Board Chair, Chukuni Communities Development Corporation. “This FedNor funding will enable us to continue to work with community stakeholders, acting as a catalyst for community economic development.”
By supporting the economic development of communities and business growth through its programs and services, FedNor is opening doors and building futures for a prosperous Northern Ontario.
To find out more about FedNor, visit us at: http://ic.gc.ca/FedNor and http://ic.gc.ca/cfdc-ontario