Technology and innovation are key to driving our economy forward as we contend with and recover from the impact of COVID-19. Through Regional Development Agencies, such as FedNor, the Government of Canada is investing at the local level to enhance manufacturing, accelerate technology adoption, and support community and business growth while creating jobs and opportunities for Canadians. This involves helping businesses expand, transform their operations, purchase specialized equipment and attract and maintain a highly-skilled workforce.

“Today’s announcement is further proof of our government’s commitment to supporting businesses through these challenging times. We are helping entrepreneurs with start ups and enabling companies to scale up, creating jobs and contributing to our economic recovery. Our message to Canadians is clear: we’ve been here for you with immediate measures, we’re here for you now and we’ll get through this, together.”
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor

“Innovative companies like Atlantic Industries Limited and FSET Inc. understand that scaling up and investing in technology will open the door to new opportunities for sustainable growth and long-term success. This FedNor investment will help these local businesses expand, capitalize on immediate opportunities, reach new markets and create good-paying jobs right here in Northern Ontario.”
- Terry Sheehan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor

“Our new Kenora location will help drive future growth, create local jobs and allow us to better serve the infrastructure needs of Northern Ontario. We are thrilled that FedNor stepped up to help us expand and purchase new equipment, which is allowing us to improve production and market access, while meeting the growing demand for our products and services.”
- Jason Sherwood, VP Operations, International & Western Canada, Atlantic Industries Limited

“We welcome and appreciate this FedNor funding as it’s allowing us to serve an additional 450 users so we can capitalize on immediate and future growth opportunities. We’re currently running near full capacity and this repayable investment will allow us to expand, create jobs and take our business to the next level.”
- Nicole Brown, COO, FSET Inc

• The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, as well as its Steel and Aluminum Initiative.

• Manufacturing is one of Canada's most important economic sectors, contributing to a large share (1.7 million) of Canada’s quality full-time, well-paying jobs across a wide range of industries.

• Accounting for approximately $174 billion of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), manufacturing represents more than 10 per cent of Canada's total GDP.

• Since 2015, FedNor has invested over $45 million in 67 manufacturing projects across Northern Ontario.

Associated links

• To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.gc.ca
• Follow us on Twitter @FedNor
• Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA
• Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
• Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages
catherine.mounier-desrochers@canada.ca

Barclay Babcock
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-690-0957
barclay.babcock@canada.ca