Bearskin Lake and KI receive funds from Ontario gov't for economic ventures
Ontario government press release ...
Ontario Strengthens Remote Aboriginal Communities - Business Centres Will Create Economic Opportunities
QUEEN'S PARK, ON, July 12 /CNW/ - The Ontario government is providing more than $1.4 million in grants toward the construction of business centres to promote prosperity in two remote First Nations, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs David Ramsay announced today.
"Our government is committed to initiatives that foster enhanced economic activity and job creation within First Nations," said Ramsay. "By creating local centres of economic activity, this investment will contribute significantly to the prosperity of these far north Aboriginal communities."
The two investments are being made through the Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program, which funds projects involving the construction, acquisition, renovation and expansion of community and small business centres. Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation will use a grant of $746,064 to build a facility on-reserve that will house several recreational businesses. Bearskin Lake First Nation is applying a grant of $750,000 to construct a new business centre, as well as expand an existing one.
Located within a 400-kilometre radius of Sioux Lookout, the closest urban centre, these First Nations are accessible only by winter roads or by air.
"The vast distances separating these communities from the nearest economic hub present a barrier to their development and prosperity," said Ramsay. "The business centres will help these communities overcome this challenge by providing new opportunities for business and employment."
More information on the program may be obtained by contacting Tim Sim at 416-314-7217 or by visiting the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs website at www.aboriginalaffairs.osaa.gov.on.ca/english/economy/grants.htm.
For further information: Anne-Marie Flanagan, Minister's Office, (416) 327-0654; Sofia Sousa-Dias, Communications Branch, (416) 326-3187