Capitalizing on sports tourism to help businesses grow in Sioux Lookout
News release
Government of Canada investment helps municipality plan for expansion of local sports tourism sector
January 18, 2019 – Sioux Lookout, ON — Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario — FedNor
Businesses and residents in the Municipality of Sioux Lookout and neighbouring First Nation communities will benefit from improved economic development opportunities thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $67,500. The FedNor funding will assist the community prepare a comprehensive strategy that will guide local efforts to boost sports tourism in the region.
The Honourable Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Specifically, the funding will enable the municipality to hire a consultant to prepare a detailed inventory of existing infrastructure, products and services, and provide a plan for the development of new sports tourism programming. The community will work with key partners and stakeholders throughout the process, including the Sioux Lookout First Nation Health Authority, Lac Seul First Nation, and the many Sioux Lookout sports and recreation clubs. Once completed, the strategy is expected to create a supportive environment for new and existing sports events that will drive economic growth in Sioux Lookout through job creation and the improvement of local services.
Quotes
“Sports tourism is a major economic driver in many communities across our nation and I am proud that our government is investing to support communities in their efforts to capitalize on the growth of this important sector. Today’s announcement helps to highlight our commitment to sustainable community economic development, business growth and job creation.”
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor
“The Government of Canada is proud to partner with the Municipality of Sioux Lookout to help local businesses and residents develop new and effective tourism products that make the most of the region’s inherent strengths. This investment will assist municipal and business leaders in their decision-making process and help drive the local economy forward.”
The Honourable Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora
“Sioux Lookout has a strong history of hosting successful sporting events and providing sporting venues for our neighbouring Far North communities. Thanks to FedNor’s support, we will now be able to engage our many partners and stakeholders to develop a strategy that will guide in the development and promotion of new sports tourism products and services, and help us grow and diversify our economy.”
Doug Lawrance, Mayor of the Municipality of Sioux Lookout
Quick facts
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This project helps to deliver on key priorities of the Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario, which outlines the Government of Canada’s approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan.
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The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development 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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