Government of Canada Invests $220,050 to Accelerate Economic Development, Tourism and Business Growth in the Township of Billings
News Release
March 3, 2017 - Kagawong, ON - Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor
A Government of Canada investment of $220,050 will enable the Township of Billings to hire an economic development officer (EDO) for a three-year period to help identify and implement economic development and business growth initiatives. The initiative is expected to lead to the creation of five new businesses and 10 local jobs, as well as help develop and modernize the community’s waterfront area.
Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor. Some key activities to be undertaken by the EDO include: develop and implement the community’s downtown revitalization, investment attraction, tourism, and marketing strategies; establish a small business incubator on the waterfront for seasonal artisan and local businesses; and implement key priorities from the Township’s strategic plan.
Quotes
“Creating middle-class jobs and a strong and sustainable economic foundation for Northern Ontario communities are key priorities for the Government of Canada. Today’s announcement will ensure the Township of Billings has the resources it needs to identify and capitalize on immediate and long-term development opportunities.”
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor
“As Chair of the Northern Ontario Caucus, I understand the unique challenges facing our region and today’s announcement is another step forward in our collective efforts to achieve the economic success that Northerners expect and rightfully deserve. I look forward to witnessing first-hand the positive results this strategic investment will deliver for the Township of Billings and the entire Manitoulin region.”
Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt
“On behalf of residents and businesses in the Township of Billings, I would like to thank FedNor and the Government of Canada for investing to help strengthen and diversify the local economy. This priority project will help us take advantage of our inherent strengths to support business development, accelerate growth and improve the economic outlook of our community and the entire Manitoulin area.”
Mayor Austin Hunt, Township of Billings
Quick Facts
- Provided through FedNor’s Community Investment Initiative for Northern Ontario, this targeted investment will also support the development and growth of cultural arts and tourism offerings in the region, while helping the township create and strengthen strategic alliances with communities, businesses and tourism operators such as the Great Spirit Circle Trail and Manitoulin Tourism Association.
Associated Links
Contacts
Barclay Babcock
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-690-0957
barclay.babcock@canada.ca