Developing Northern Ontario’s tourism opportunities to grow the economy

News release

Government of Canada investment helps Destination Northern Ontario attract francophone tourists and snowmobilers

August 29, 2019 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor

Tourism is an inclusive sector that showcases Canada’s culture, diversity, natural beauty and unique experiences to the world. It delivers economic benefits across the country by supporting one in ten jobs. That’s why the Government of Canada is investing in our tourism sector’s businesses and assets.

Today, Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie, announced $230,000 in funding to help

Destination Northern Ontario (formerly known as Tourism Northern Ontario) develop two new tourism products. A contribution of $160,000 will be used to develop a world-class snowmobile region along Highway 11 North between Hearst and Temiskaming Shores, including the City of Timmins. The remaining $70,000 will support the development of a series of interactive itineraries for smart phone and tablet users that highlight the region’s francophone culture and experiential tourism opportunities.

This investment is being made through the Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF), which supports Canadian businesses and organizations seeking to create, improve or enhance tourism products, facilities and experiences. FedNor is delivering CEF in Northern Ontario.

Quotes

“These investments will enable communities and businesses in all regions of the country to develop tourism products and experiences to attract more tourists year-round. This will help communities big and small reap the benefits of the global tourism boom to diversify their economies and create good jobs for middle-class families while showcasing Canada’s brand, centred on shared values of diversity and equality.”

- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie

“Innovation doesn’t only happen in big cities; it happens in all regions of Canada. That’s why our regional development agencies play an important role in helping businesses turn innovation into economic growth and good jobs for Canadians. Through the Canadian Experiences Fund, our government is investing in the development of our tourism sector and the economic potential of our vibrant communities.”

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

“Our government is proud to support these initiatives that will develop francophone products and experiences, along with enhanced tourism products for the winter season. Strongly aligned with the Government of Canada’s Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario, this investment will assist businesses to reach new markets, help communities to grow their economies and create jobs for the middle class.”

- Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie

“I am grateful to the Government of Canada for this support, through FedNor, that will help us develop and grow the region’s francophone tourism offerings with the goal of attracting culture-seeking visitors, French-speaking tourists and immigrants to the North. And by developing a premier snowmobile region, we aim to make Northeastern Ontario the ultimate snowmobile destination that builds on our strengths: long, cold winters with an abundance of snow.”

- David MacLachlan, Executive Director of Destination Northern Ontario

Quick facts

Associated links

Contacts

Kim Fewchuk
Senior Communications Officer
FedNor – Sault Ste. Marie
705-941-2105
kim.fewchuk@canada.ca

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