Government of Canada investing nearly $700,000 in tourism industry in Algoma region and Northern Ontario
News release
FedNor funds will help support six projects that will foster economic growth through tourism development
February 26, 2025 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced a total FedNor investment of $677,719 in six projects in support of the tourism industry in Algoma region and Northern Ontario. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor.
These investments include the development and implementation of tourism promotion and marketing strategies and plans, and will support the hiring of skilled professionals who will enable and expand tourism opportunities in the region.
The FedNor funds announced today will foster continued economic growth by supporting the expansion of a critical industry in Northern Ontario, and will help draw tourists to communities across the region by building upon new and existing opportunities, and by strategically highlighting many of the iconic experiences, sights, and products Northern Ontario has to offer.
For more detail on the projects being funded, please see the associated backgrounder.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada recognizes that the tourism industry has long been a hallmark of Northern Ontario’s economy, and investments like this will help it grow and continue to support communities across the region. Our unique and iconic attractions help visitors from around the world create exciting memories, and those experiences are driven by local businesses and organizations. By investing in those businesses and organizations, we are fostering a Northern Ontario shaped by pride, beauty, and thriving local economies.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for FedNor
“Investments in tourism help draw visitors that positively impact our hospitality industry, our retail sector, and many other local businesses and organizations. These impacts help drive diverse local economic development that benefits everyone. It’s no secret that the Algoma region is a special place, and one of the most beautiful areas not just in Canada, but on Earth. By supporting our tourism industry in sharing our marvels with the rest of the world, we will ensure that our community continues to benefit and grow while shining like no place else.”
- Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
“Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area has a special combination of iconic natural scenery and a vibrant local history, making our city a true tourism gem. We are proud to partner with FedNor and the Government of Canada to ensure that historic tourism attractions like the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site remain accessible and engaging for current and future generations.”
- Matthew Shoemaker, Mayor, City of Sault Ste. Marie
“Northern Ontario is a broad region filled with inspiring sights and unparalleled experiences. The region has a lot to offer, and thanks to the support of FedNor and the Government of Canada, Destination Northern Ontario will continue to work with municipal partners in sharing those wonders with the rest of the world.”
- David MacLachlan, Executive Director, Destination Northern Ontario
Quick facts
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The Great Lakes Cruise Association is a cooperative of ports on the Great Lakes and along the St. Lawrence Seaway that focuses on the quality of port facilities, memorable shore excursions, and a healthy, sustainable marine environment.
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The City of Sault Ste. Marie is situated on the original meeting grounds of the Batchewana and Anishinabek people in the heart of the Great Lakes.
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Destination Northern Ontario works alongside tourism businesses, professionals, and destinations at local, regional, and global levels to build a strong tourism industry in the region.
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Ontario Culture Days is a not-for-profit organization that celebrates artists and cultural groups in our communities.This year’s Ontario Culture Days will take place from September 19th to October 12th, 2025.
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The Algoma Kinniwabi Travel Association is a not-for-profit tourism industry organization that supports the growth of tourism through partnership, product development, research, education and marketing.
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The majority of the funds announced today are provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), with additional support provided through the Government of Canada’s Tourism Growth Program (TGP).
Related products
Associated links
Contacts
Jennifer Kozelj
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
jennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Media Relations