FORT FRANCES – The Ontario government is investing more than $1 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) in two Rainy River agricultural projects, creating three jobs.
“The agricultural industry is a key economic driver and significant job creator in many northern communities,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. “Our investments in the agri-food sector are helping businesses expand operations and increase revenues.”
Rainy River Future Development Corporation is receiving $1 million to begin a two-year tile drainage program in the Rainy River district. Tile drainage is a common land-improvement practice that creates more consistent crop yields by helping water flow more freely through the soil, which reduces plant stress and wear and tear on farming equipment.
Brielmann Agriculture Ltd. is receiving $96,758 to build new storage facilities and purchase new equipment. This project will bring more revenue to the region by making it easier to export food products such as soybeans, canola, oats and wheat from Northern Ontario.
Promoting and stimulating economic development initiatives is an important part of the government’s plan to create more good-paying jobs and opportunities in the north and attract new and expanded investment so northern communities can grow and thrive.
QUICK FACTS
The NOHFC promotes and supports economic development across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects – big and small, rural and urban – that stimulate growth, job creation and develop a skilled workforce.
- Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $176 million in 1,224 projects in Northern Ontario. This has leveraged more than $650 million in investment and created or retained 3,559 jobs.
- The Ontario government is getting more people back to work and more recreational activities open by moving forward with a regional approach to Stage 2 of reopening the province.
