The federal government is spending more than $13 million to support 22 Indigenous projects across northern Ontario.
The Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund is getting $4,910,020 in FedNor cash to enhance business development and growth, including youth entrepreneurship, in area First Nations communities.
The Fund is also receiving $320,000 in one-year operational funding.
Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation is getting $214,000 to conduct a feasibility study to determine the viability of converting band-owned buildings, operations and businesses with bio-mass thermal heat, using existing resources.
Webequie First Nation will use $546,000 to construct a Community Readiness and Wellness Centre.
Wunnumin Lake First Nation is welcoming $83,644 to complete a feasibility study related to food and economic security.
The Seven Generations Education Institute is receiving $1,000,000 to install new technology and improve the virtual classroom program at its main campus as well as four satellite campuses.
The Ojibway Nation of Saugeen is also getting $1,000,000 for the development of a multi-use cultural and events centre.
The government is spending $44,325 to help officials in Nibinamik First Nation develop a comprehensive community economic development strategy.
FedNor Minister Melanie Joly says “True reconciliation means supporting Indigenous communities and businesses by providing opportunities for their success. This investment will do just that-helping Indigenous business people to seize opportunities, helping Indigenous organizations deliver important local projects and supporting Indigenous communities on their path to self-sufficiency and prosperity. I’m excited to see the difference that this investment will make for Indigenous communities across Northern Ontario.”
Other projects receiving funds:
Thunder Bay–Rainy River
Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation
$297,000
Hire an economic development officer to develop an opportunity and asset map that will identify and inventory potential mining, forestry, energy, and infrastructure projects.
Thunder Bay–Superior North
Nokiiwin Tribal Council Inc.
$497,550
Support member First Nation communities within Treaty 1850 territory as each undertakes and completes an in-community comprehensive community planning process. Nokiiwin Tribal Council will also provide support to non-member First Nations communities who are part of the Robinson-Superior Treaty 1850 territory.
Red Rock First Nation
$26,241
Support this Indigenous community in its efforts to develop of a five-year community economic development and strategic plan.
(Sand Point First Nation) Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek
$58,808
Complete Class 20 and Class 10 engineering plans for a wood pellet production facility.
