Greenstone-area entrepreneurs to benefit from expert advice and services to help them grow and create jobs

News Release

Not-for-profit organization will provide development services to area businesses and support community economic development initiatives thanks to an investment of more than $1 million by the Government of Canada

August 3, 2017 – Geraldton, ON – Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor

Entrepreneurs looking to start a business or take their existing businesses to the next level will find the support they need at the Greenstone Economic Development Corporation (GEDC), a federally funded, not-for-profit organization dedicated to small business growth and community economic development.

Business planning, counselling and referral, and access to capital are just a few of the services being offered by the GEDC thanks to a Government of Canada investment of more than $1 million over three years.

The funding was announced today by the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedNor, the Government of Canada’s economic development organization for Northern Ontario.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada is focused on helping to build strong and sustainable communities that support a vibrant middle-class. The funding announced today will provide businesses and entrepreneurs in the Greenstone region with the tools they need to innovate, grow, reach new markets and create good-paying jobs that drive our economy forward."

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor

"I am proud to be part of a government that recognizes the unique needs of Northwestern Ontario and supports the efforts of communities and businesses to grow and succeed. Small businesses are the backbone of the Canadian economy and our investment in the Greenstone Economic Development Corporation will help strengthen this vital sector throughout the region."

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North

"Today's announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s confidence in our organization and the work we do to strengthen the economy across our service area. We welcome and appreciate FedNor’s continued support which allows us to work with entrepreneurs, local businesses, and community partners toward sustainable growth and economic prosperity."

Frank Hildebrandt, President of the Greenstone Economic Development Corporation

Quick Facts

  • The GEDC is one of 24 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) funded by FedNor to provide financing, mentoring and business development services to Northern Ontario businesses and communities. CFDCs are community-based, not-for-profit organizations run by volunteer boards and staffed by experienced business and economic development professionals.

  • The investment announced today was provided through the Community Futures program, a national program which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.

Associated Links

Contacts

Paul Denis
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-507-0539
paul.denis@canada.ca

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