Government of Canada investing $241,695 to support economic development in Algoma
News release
FedNor funds will help enable White River to implement economic development projects
August 14, 2026 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
The global landscape is shifting, and the Government of Canada is focused on what we can control by protecting our sovereignty, building our prosperity, and strengthening our economic resilience. Rural communities are central to that effort. Rural economies are a cornerstone of Canada’s national economy, and local knowledge is often critical to understanding the needs and opportunities on the ground.
That is why Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma, today announced a FedNor investment of $241,695 to support the Township of White River in hiring an economic development officer (EDO) for a three-year period. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
This FedNor investment will allow White River to hire a skilled economic development professional (EDO) to lead projects that grow investment and tourism in the community and surrounding areas. The EDO will help create and advance tourism plans, prepare materials to attract investors, work with local businesses to identify challenges and opportunities, and address other community needs including housing and labour force challenges.
With this support in place, White River will be equipped to turn local knowledge into action. That growth strengthens both the region and the country, so no community gets left behind.
Quotes
“Northern Ontario communities know their own strengths and their own priorities. This support is about giving them the tools to act on that knowledge. By investing in local solutions, we are building a stronger region and a stronger Canada, one community at a time.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
“Economic development in rural communities requires specific local knowledge and awareness. The Algoma region is full of communities and people with the ideas and ability to drive our region into a thriving future, and this investment will help give them the exact support they need to make it reality. These FedNor funds will mean real growth for the businesses of White River and surrounding communities, and will help to maintain the high quality of life experienced every day in Algoma.”
- Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma
“White River might be a community that was established by the railway and is now best known as the birthplace of Winnie the Pooh, but we are also a place of great culture, adventure, and opportunity. Thanks to FedNor’s support, we will be able to better capitalize on our diverse offerings to drive growth and prosperity for our residents and neighbours. This economic development officer position will help provide not just the tools to get things done, but also the clearest information to ensure we are taking the best steps possible.”
- Tara Anderson Hart, Mayor, Township of White River
Quick facts
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The Township of White River sits at the intersection of Highway 17 and Highway 631, and provides and important point of connection for travellers and the transportation of goods.
- Winnie the Pooh, the real bear who inspired the famous children’s book series, was originally from White River. The community is celebrating 100 years of Winnie the Pooh from August 14-16 at the 38th annual Winnie’s Hometown Festival.
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The funding announced today was provided through 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.
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