Government of Canada invests $108,000 in Indigenous economic development
News release
FedNor funds will support jobs, tourism and business growth in Serpent River First Nation
March 20, 2025 – Serpent River First Nation, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, today announced a Government of Canada investment of $108,000 to help maximize tourism and business opportunities for Serpent River First Nation. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
Provided through FedNor’s Tourism Growth Program, the funding will allow the Serpent River First Nation (SRFN) Limited Partnership, the economic development arm of the First Nation, to develop a five-year strategic plan. The goal of the project is to help diversify the economy, develop new tourism products and extend the tourism season for the Batchewana Bay and Cutler highway trading post facilities.
To support Serpent River First Nation’s tourism and economic development strategies, the project will also focus on job creation, training, business development, and infrastructure expansion. It will also support marketing and social media activities, as well as e-commerce and website development to increase sales and support local businesses.
Quotes
“We are working hand in hand with First Nations partners to create real opportunities that strengthen our communities. These collaborative projects help build diverse, sustainable economies across Northern Ontario, creating good jobs and supporting families. When First Nations communities thrive, all Canadians benefit.”
- The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“We’re building an economy that is fair for everyone, including Indigenous communities like Serpent River First Nation. Through investments in Indigenous-led projects like this one, we’re supporting community self-determination. This priority project will help guide future tourism and economic decision making, while providing the people of Serpent River First Nation with more opportunities and a fair chance at fully participating in the economy.”
- Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie
“I am pleased that FedNor recognizes the importance of this project and is supporting our efforts to create more employment, become more competitive, and position Serpent River First Nation for long-term success. Our strategic planning efforts will create a roadmap to help guide tourism and economic decisions that work with and for our people. The tourism sector has great potential to be a major driver of the Canadian economy. Through this growth, we will make the best possible use of our existing assets and explore the development of new attractions. We look forward to continuing to work with the Serpent River First Nation Community, Chief and Council, businesses, the Government of Canada, and other partners in developing our local economy.”
- Earl Commanda, Serpent River First Nation Limited Partnership Board Chair
Quick facts
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Serpent River First Nation is located midway between Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury along the North Channel of Lake Huron. They are an Anishinaabe First Nation and signatory to the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850.
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Administered by FedNor in Northern Ontario, the Tourism Growth Program provides $108 million over 3 years to support Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses and not-for-profit organizations in developing local tourism products and experiences. The program also complements supports for the tourism industry provided through other federal, provincial and territorial programs.
Associated links
Contacts
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Media Relations
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