THUNDER BAY – Anishinabek – Greg Rickford, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources and the Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor), announced today an investment to encourage entrepreneurship among Aboriginal youth within the Robinson-Superior treaty.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates our Government’s commitment to encourage entrepreneurship among Aboriginal youth. By helping shape the leaders of tomorrow, we help build a strong economic future for our nation,” said Greg Rickford, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario.

“We’d like to thank FedNor for its support in helping us empower Aboriginal youth to become more involved in economic activity and in the diversification of businesses in their own communities. We all benefit when we invest in youth,” commented John DeGiacomo
Executive Director, Anishinabek Employment and Training Services.

The investment of $136,962 will enable Anishinabek Employment and Training Services to offer training and mentoring to local Aboriginal youth.

Quick Facts

• Anishinabek Employment and Training Services assists in the development of a skilled Aboriginal workforce through the provision of individual and community-based employment and training initiatives based on traditional Aboriginal values and principles. It serves the members of nine First Nations in the Robinson-Superior Treaty area.

• The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.

• Since 2006, through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, the Harper Government has invested more than $308 million in support of 1,500 projects. These investments have created more than 15,000 jobs throughout Northern Ontario.