Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation, ON – On Monday, Greg Rickford, MP-Kenora and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor) announced two investments to help support jobs and business development and growth in Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation and in neighbouring First Nation communities.
“Our Government is proud to support the efforts of Aboriginal communities to take charge of their economic future through strategic initiatives that create jobs, growth and prosperity. These investments will assist First Nation communities and entrepreneurs to capitalize on business development opportunities, including those offered by the natural resources sector.,” – stated Minister Greg Rickford, MP-Kenora and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario.
“We welcome and appreciate this strong show of support from the Government of Canada through FedNor. Today’s announcement will provide our community with the infrastructure and resources we need to grow the economy and help our First Nations communities and Aboriginal business owners succeed,” said Chief Chris Skead, Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation.
An investment of $490,000 will enable Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation to complete the construction a Community Development Centre that would serve as a new multi-use facility and business centre. The 9800-square-foot building, located within the First Nation, will provide a central point for the delivery of a range of community economic programs and activities including space to create business ventures.
A second investment of $64,966 will be used by Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council Inc. (AKRC) to increase economic development opportunities in the resource sector for its member communities and to facilitate the entry of Aboriginal communities into commercial initiatives.
Quick Facts
- Once construction is complete, the Community Development Centre will help Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation attract new business ventures to the community, as well as support new jobs, including 2-3 positions in programming and facility management.
- Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council Inc. (AKRC) will establish a natural resources board governance structure to develop economic opportunities in natural resources such as forestry, fisheries and mining, and to facilitate the entry of its six member communities into related commercial activities.
- 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.
