Government of Canada investing over $1.7 million in outdoor tourism projects across Northern Ontario
News release
FedNor funding will help support year-round and seasonal tourism initiatives in communities across the region
February 6, 2025 – Thunder Bay, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced Government of Canada investments totalling $1,720,064 in support of ten strategic outdoor tourism initiatives in Northern Ontario.
These investments will foster continued economic growth by supporting the expansion of a critical industry in the region. These projects will help draw tourists to communities across the region by building upon existing infrastructure and creating new opportunities. This will support communities by helping them benefit from the many sights and experiences Northern Ontario has to offer.
Specifically, the projects include the development and expansion of both snowmobile and multi-use trail systems, the hiring of skilled professionals to support tourism industry needs, the development and implementation of strategic plans and studies, and upgrades to facilities and infrastructure.
For more detail on the projects being funded, please see the associated backgrounder.
Quotes
“Northern Ontario is a place of boundless natural beauty, and destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation. The Government of Canada understands that investing in tourism helps us showcase our fantastic region and boost our local economies. By supporting projects that draw visitors to our region, we are helping Northern Ontario create and seize new opportunities for development.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for FedNor
“Northern Ontario offers breathtaking landscapes and thousands of pristine lakes and rivers that could easily take a lifetime to discover! Through the Tourism Growth Program, the Government of Canada is supporting local organizations like these to fuel the economic engine in their communities. Investing in the tourism industry will also help to attract more domestic and international visitors to explore this bewitchingly wild region, time and again.”
- The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
“Sioux Lookout is the host community for many festivals, events, and services. The beauty and adventure waiting in the surrounding wilderness makes our community a unique, and exceptional tourist destination—the hub of the north. We are thankful that FedNor is supporting us in building upon and seizing the opportunities available to Sioux Lookout so that we can attract visitors from far and wide and help share a Northern Ontario people cannot forget.”
- Doug Lawrance, Mayor, Municipality of Sioux Lookout
“We are grateful that FedNor and the Government of Canada are stepping up to help us transform our facilities into an all-season tourism hub. Laurentian Ski Hill Snowboarding Club is excited to provide more activities, support healthy lifestyles encouraging individuals to engage in sport and recreational activities. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience for the whole family, it’s a great time to visit the Laurentian Ski Hill Snowboarding Club or any one of Northern Ontario’s tourism gems.”
- Brad Gavan, Board President, Laurentian Ski Hill Snowboarding Club
Quick facts
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The majority of FedNor funds announced today are provided through the Tourism Growth Program (TGP), a Government of Canada program that will deliver $108 million to tourism projects over three years. TGP funds are delivered by Regional Development Agencies and aim to support communities, small and medium-sized businesses, and not-for-profit organizations in developing local tourism products and experiences.
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Additional funds announced today are provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), through which FedNor invests in projects led by municipalities, First Nations, and other organizations and institutions that support community economic development, diversification, job creation and self-reliant communities in Northern Ontario.
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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