Government of Canada launching update of regional growth strategy
News release
FedNor funds also announced in support of the tourism industry of Northern Ontario
July 17, 2025 – Thunder Bay, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced the updated Prosperity & Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario, as well as a total FedNor investment of $4,571,673 in tourism projects across the region.
The Prosperity & Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario (PGSNO) is a comprehensive document intended to support and amplify current and ongoing Government of Canada programs and collaborations to address the needs of Northern Ontario’s residents and communities. Development of the updated PGSNO drew from consultation with communities, enterprises, Indigenous organizations, and other regional stakeholders in order to tailor federal investments to needs identified throughout Northern Ontario. PGSNO provides a roadmap for focussing and continuing strong economic development in the region, and this update will steer our efforts to address challenges and opportunities for the next 5 years.
Also announced was $4,571,673 in FedNor funds for 22 tourism industry projects, businesses, and organizations throughout Northern Ontario. This includes the construction and installation of new tourism infrastructure and upgrades to existing attractions; the creation and expansion of festivals, tours, and exhibits; and support for the coordination and development of strategic plans. The collected projects receiving FedNor funds will help further develop Northern Ontario as an all-season tourist destination, supporting an industry to that provides jobs and economic benefits across the region by drawing in thousands of visitors each year while also offering made-in-Canada options for Canadians.
Quotes
“The economic landscape has seen many changes over the last five years and communities in Northen Ontario deserve new opportunities for economic development. Whether it is harnessing new investment opportunities or supporting careers in the tourism industry, today’s announcement is critical to maximizing Northen Ontario’s full potential, in collaboration with communities and organizations across the region.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister Responsible for FedNor
“The Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario is about unlocking potential—and that includes promoting Northern Ontario as a must-visit tourism destination. Whether it’s domestic travellers or international tourists, we want more people to experience the beauty, culture and opportunities in every corner of this region. From coast to coast to coast, the Tourism Growth Program helps ensure that no part of Canada is left behind.”
- The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism)
“The Culinary Tourism Alliance is dedicated to working with communities to promote authentic taste experiences that honour local cultures and support industries across the culinary tourism value chain. We are proud to partner with Destination Northern Ontario, and thanks to FedNor’s support, we will continue to build partnerships and promote and foster diverse and inclusive culinary and agri-tourism destination development.”
- Rebecca Mackenzie, President & CEO, Culinary Tourism Alliance
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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Additional 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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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