Government of Canada announces over $850,000 in funding to support innovative and sustainable economic development in Northern Ontario
News release
FedNor funds are supporting and attracting businesses to the region and promoting sustainable development in the agri-food sector
July 25, 2025 – Temiskaming Shores, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
Today, Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development), and Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming, announced $863,023 in funding to support local and regional innovation and economic development across Northern Ontario. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Of the funding announced today, $702,713 will support the Northern Ontario Farm Innovation Alliance (NOFIA) in strengthening the region’s agri-food sector.The initiative will improve local value chains, advance technology adoption, and promote sustainable practices. NOFIA will also assess key production and procurement challenges, and explore infrastructure investments to support aggregation, storage, and distribution. The project aims to expand market opportunities and increase demand for Northern Ontario–produced foods.
The project is expected to help expand and modernize 120 businesses, create 60 new jobs in the agricultural sector over three years, supporting the development of nearly 2,000 acres of farmland. This will help to attract over $1 million in industry investment and economic benefits for the region.
Also announced was $160,310 in funding for the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM). The funding will allow FONOM to produce and distribute 12 bilingual videos to highlight business opportunities and promote the strengths and talents of Northern Ontario's workforce, the availability and price of residential and industrial lands, and the benefits of the Northern Ontarian lifestyle.
Quotes
“Northern Ontario is home to vibrant communities, innovative businesses, and untapped potential. Today’s investments are a testament to our focus to grow the regional economy – by strengthening the agri-food sector and showcasing what makes the North such a great place to live and work. Through collaboration with organizations like NOFIA and FONOM, we’re creating good jobs, supporting sustainable development, and laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity across the region.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister Responsible for FedNor
“Northern Ontario’s strength lies in its people – our farmers, entrepreneurs, workers, and community leaders who drive innovation and growth every day. This funding is about supporting them, helping communities thrive, and creating new opportunities close to home. By investing in local solutions and regional partnerships, we’re building a more vibrant, sustainable future for everyone who calls the North home.”
- Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development) and Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming
“Northern Ontario is full of opportunity, and it’s time the rest of Canada sees it. With this support, FONOM will be able to shine a spotlight on our communities, our workforce, and the industries that drive our economy. These videos will help attract new businesses, skilled workers, and families to the region by showcasing the unique advantages of living, working, and investing in the North.”
- Danny Whalen, President, Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM)
“This investment is a game-changer for agriculture in Northern Ontario. It allows us to strengthen our regional food systems, support producers of all sizes, and explore innovative technologies that will shape the future of farming in the North. By working together with communities and partners, we’re helping to build a more sustainable, resilient, and locally focused agri-food sector that benefits everyone.”
- Emily Seed, Executive Director, Northern Ontario Farm Innovation Alliance (NOFIA)
Quick facts
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The funds announced today are in part 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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The investments announced today are provided through FedNor’s Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Fund (REGI), which supports the growth of Northern Ontario businesses, their expansion into new markets, and their adoption of new technologies and processes.
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The FONOM series will include eight videos featuring Northeastern Ontario's districts, each running approximately five minutes: one video for each of the seven districts, plus one "Best of" video featuring footage from each district. Four other videos will be created to promote specific industries, including mining, film, and Northern Ontario's role in the battery electric vehicle market. These industry videos will have a running time of approximately 15 minutes. Videos will contribute to attracting business investments, promote business creation, and encourage relocation of businesses and skilled workers to relocate to the region.
Associated links
Contacts
Jennifer Kozelj
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
jennifer.kozelj@labour-travail.gc.ca
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Media Relations