THUNDER BAY – Ontario is investing in infrastructure and economic development in First Nation communities in Northern Ontario, to identify new business opportunities, boost economic growth and provide safe child care spaces.
“These grants will go a long way in helping First Nation communities improve economic outcomes. It’s part of our goal to improve the overall well-being of Indigenous people in our province,” says David Zimmer Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
“The Aboriginal Economic Development Fund grant for cultural tourism training will help facilitate and guide the community into the business of cultural tourism. The goal is to bring money into the community to help the local economy by attracting tourists to the Eabametoong First Nation Territory. The training is the first step of many in the cultural tourism industry,” comments Paul Holcroft, Employment Community Co-ordinator, Eabametoong First Nation.
Supporting economic development for First Nation communities in Northern Ontario is one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.
Investing in infrastructure and economic development in First Nation communities is part of our plan to create jobs, grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.
Quick Facts
- Through the AEDF, Ontario provided $100,000 to the Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, $36,952 to Eabametoong First Nation and $66,254 to Missanabie Cree First Nation.
- Through the ACCGP, Ontario provided $283,543 to Pic Mobert First Nation.
- From 2003 to 2016, through the ACCGP Ontario has provided more than $38 million in capital grants to Indigenous communities.
- Ontario is investing a total of $95 million in the AEDF over ten years. The AEDF was launched in 2014 and has three funding streams: Regional Partnership Grants, Economic Diversification Grants and the Business and Community Fund.
