SUDBURY – The tourism sector faces some serious challenges in both the current COVID-19 pandemic, but will continue to face those challenges until there is a vaccine. The international travel opportunities for tourism outfitters remain very limited with the border closed.
FedNor has announced $7.5 million in funding for tourism which includes $1,428,220 in funding for Thunder Bay-Superior North and Thunder Bay-Rainy River. There is also $1,073,900 for the Kenora riding.
“Our tourism sector and the 1.8 million people it employs across Canada have been hit hard by COVID-19, and we’re here for them. With Tourism Week upon us, we’re focused on ensuring that businesses, organizations and local governments are ready to reopen the industry and help Canadian tourism come roaring back. Our message to the sector and those whose livelihoods depend on it is clear: we’re here for you now with immediate measures, we’ll be here for you as our economy reopens and we’ll get through this together, and come back stronger than before. We’re working with you,” says Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor.
“Communities, businesses and industries across Northern Ontario are preparing to come back in full force. I’m thrilled that FedNor will be playing an even bigger role in this recovery, expanding its important work at the local level. Today’s announcement will support 36 important projects that will create jobs and help businesses evolve while ensuring our tourism industry is prepared to welcome people to our spectacular region as soon as possible,” adds Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor.
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in uncertainty and anxiety for small businesses and their employees across Northern Ontario. These businesses are at the heart of so many communities, as a source of local jobs – and local pride.
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, which is why the Government of Canada has implemented a series of concrete and tangible measures to help them retain their employees, pay rent and get capital to cover costs. Furthermore, it continues to help more businesses in key sectors like tourism through FedNor and the five other Regional Development Agencies. In partnership with local organizations, FedNor is working to support regional economies and create good, well-paying jobs in communities across Northern Ontario.
Federal government support for local tourism in Northern Ontario communities
In recognition of National Tourism Week, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, today announced an investment of more than $7.6 million in support of tourism across Northern Ontario.
Delivered by FedNor, this funding will support 36 tourism initiatives led by communities, businesses and organizations in the region. This targeted investment includes over $1 million in Destination Marketing Organization assistance to support seven projects designed to position the region as an attractive travel destination and dynamic place to live and work.
Thunder Bay–Rainy River
Atikokan EDC $185,000
Purchase a custom-designed mobile event stage to create tourism opportunities throughout the Atikokan region.
Atikokan EDC $81,900
Implement the Tourism Atikokan Marketing Plan that includes updated highway signage, print and video materials.
Atikokan EDC $171,900
Hire a community economic development officer for a three-year period to support community and regional development initiatives in the Atikokan region.
Cushing Lake Resort $90,000
Support the expansion of the Cushing Lake Resort, which includes installing a new water filtration system, docks, electrical upgrades and safety enhancements.
Friends Of White Otter Castle $185,310
Complete essential restorations and upgrades to White Otter Castle.
Rainy River Future Development Corporation $55,000
Develop a tourism marketing plan for the region.
Township of Conmee $146,000
Support the construction of an outdoor tourism facility.
Upsala Local Service Board $21,200
Implementation of a new branding and marketing strategy.
Thunder Bay–Superior North
City of Thunder Bay $750,000
Infrastructure to support the development of Prince Arthur’s Landing Phase 2 Cultural Campus on the Thunder Bay Waterfront.
Quick facts
- Tourism Week in Canada is May 24-31, 2020. It’s an annual celebration of Canadian tourism, its workers and the captivating attractions that welcome visitors from home and abroad. The Government of Canada, through FedNor, is intensifying its efforts to support the recovery and growth of this strategic sector of Northern Ontario’s economy.
- The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s programs, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
