KENORA, ON – “Our Government is investing in strategic initiatives to enhance tourism, create jobs, and position Northwestern Ontario for sustainable economic growth. This targeted investment will transform the Seven Generations Education Institute’s Kenora facility into a state-of-the-art facility that will support tourism, education and training for First Nations students, while serving as a long-term economic driver for the region,” stated Minister Greg Rickford, MP-Kenora, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario.
“We are proud to partner with the Government of Canada through FedNor to establish a world-class educational, tourism and conference venue that will deliver positive economic results for the organization, our students and the communities we serve. The funding announced today will help attract students and visitors to the area, while maximizing the tourism and economic potential of our region,” said Brent Tookenay, Chief Executive Officer, Seven Generations Education Institute
Greg Rickford, MP-Kenora, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor) announced an investment to support tourism, jobs and economic growth in the City of Kenora and surrounding areas.
A FedNor investment of $1,187,131 will enable Seven Generations Education Institute to upgrade more than 30,000 square feet of its Manidoo Baawaatig facility overlooking the Kenora harbourfront. The renovations will enable the organization to create a state-of-the-art conference and performing arts space, and a technology and communications centre, as well as upgrade its culinary school.
Quick Facts
- Seven Generations Education Institute is a not-for-profit organization that works with Canadian colleges and universities to provide students with Aboriginal-specific programs that lead to certificates, diplomas or degrees from recognized educational institutions. With campuses in Fort Frances and Kenora, as well as administration offices in Thunder Bay, the organization currently employs 55 full-time and 70 part-time staff.
- 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.
- Since 2006, through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, the Government of Canada has invested $351 million in support of more than 1,675 projects. These investments have supported more than 22,700 jobs throughout Northern Ontario.
