Government of Canada invests $976,650 to help more Northern Ontario business diversify and expand into the defence sector
News release
FedNor funding will support companies as they retool their operations to pursue opportunities in the defence supply chain
April 21, 2026 – North Bay, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
The global landscape is shifting rapidly. The international rules-based order is fading, and technological change is expanding the fields of conflict. In response, Canada’s new government is focused on what we can control to protect Canada’s sovereignty, build our prosperity, and strengthen our strategic autonomy. A strong defence industry is key to Canada’s national sovereignty and security as well as its economic resilience and long-term prosperity.
That is why, today, Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development) announced a FedNor investment of $976,650 to help The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc. (The Business Centre NPS) launch the Northern Ontario Defence Opportunities Project (NODOP). The announcement was be made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Funded through the Government of Canada’s Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII), this priority project will help businesses become more competitive and prepare them to pursue opportunities within the defence sector supply chain. Led by The Business Centre NPS, in partnership with the City of North Bay’s Economic Development Department, the NODOP will provide performance‑based contributions of up to $50,000 to eligible firms across the North. The funding will support activities such as specialized certifications, consultant services related to cybersecurity, controlled goods compliance, and quality assurance. It will also help offset costs associated with ISO standards, equipment upgrades and market‑entry or diversification initiatives, including participation in technology demonstrations and industry showcases.
As part of the project, a coordinator will be hired to complete the program design, support stakeholder engagement, and implement the initiative. This includes researching best practices, defining eligibility criteria and a funding framework, as well as formalizing the application and review processes. The Program Coordinator will also align the NODOP with the Northern Ontario Road to Defence (NORD) initiative to maintain a cohesive, region‑wide approach to defence‑related programming. Outreach efforts would target businesses across Northern Ontario, in both official languages, supported by an online application system designed to streamline intake.
This strategic initiative supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to strengthen Canadian businesses, reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers, and build domestic capacity for defence manufacturing and services. It also aligns with the federal government’s Defence Investment Strategy, a $6.6-billion plan to prioritize building military equipment at home, hike the share of defence contracts awarded to Canadian firms and add up to 125,000 new jobs over the next decade.
Quotes
“Canada was built by Canadians, and our defence industry is no different. By supporting domestic efforts to grow our armed forces through the Buy Canada plan for supplying the military, we are building a stronger defence sector that reflects the expertise of partners across Northern Ontario. This will create real opportunities for businesses and workers, here at home. When we empower Canadian industries to thrive, we contribute to a safer future for all generations.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
“Northern Ontario is home to a wealth of world-class businesses that are well positioned to access the defence supply chain and today’s announcement is paving the way to get them there. This is a generational opportunity to reinforce our sovereignty and grow the links that keep our communities and industries connected. The Northern Ontario Defence Opportunities Project means more businesses entering the defence space, more high-quality jobs for our region and stronger economic growth that will improve quality of life for everyone.”
- Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development), and Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming
“Canada’s defence sector is growing exponentially and this strong show of support from FedNor will ensure Northern Ontario business can capitalize on the tremendous opportunity its expansion creates. We are proud to partner with the North Bay Economic Development Department to rollout the Northern Ontario Defence Opportunities Project and look forward to the positive results it will deliver for companies, communities, and the entire region.”
- Jennifer Nickerson, Executive Director, The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc.
Quick facts
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The funding announced today is provided through the Government of Canada’s Regional Defence Investment Initiative. Administered by FedNor in Northern, the RDII helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) integrate into defence supply chains and enhance industrial and innovation capacity in support of Canada’s defence and security needs.
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The RDII also supports investment by businesses and organizations that adapt dual-use technologies or capabilities for defence applications, as well as projects that improve the productivity and readiness of Canada’s regional defence ecosystem.
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The Canadian defence industry is comprised of nearly 600 businesses that contributed over $9.6B in GDP, while supporting more than 80,000 jobs across the country. These companies include large Canadian-owned firms, Canada-based subsidiaries of large multinational companies, and many small and medium-sized businesses in Canada that employ highly skilled workers in high-quality jobs.
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