Government of Canada investing nearly $1.8 million to create youth employment across Northern Ontario

Press Release

From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

May 11, 2026 – Hearst, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

The global economy is rapidly changing, and many Canadians are feeling the effects at home—including workers and young people looking for jobs in a challenging job market. In response, the Government of Canada is focused on what it can control: creating good jobs for young people across Northern Ontario to gain meaningful work experience that will set them on a path to a successful future.

Today. Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development), and Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming, announced a total FedNor investment of $1,783,100 aimed at supporting paid youth internships across Northern Ontario. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor,

As part of the funds announced today, FedNor is investing $1,725,600 in Nord-Aski Regional Economic Development Corporation (REDC) to support the continued delivery of the youth internship program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Northern Ontario. Administered by Nord-Aski REDC in partnership with 19 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs), the four-year program will generate 60 internship positions in priority sectors. This initiative was designed to help Northern Ontario businesses attract, develop, and retain young talent, supporting economic growth and job creation across the region.

The remaining $57,500 will allow Wahkohtowin Development GP Inc., to hire a youth intern for 18 months to support Indigenous land stewardship projects, focusing on sustainable forestry and the conservation economy. While on the job, the intern will support initiatives as the Height of Land Ecological Corridor Project, Guardians Program, Indigenous Lands Symposium, and more.

By supporting youth employment, the Government of Canada is helping communities grow stronger, economies become more resilient, and Northern Ontario’s future remain bright for generations to come.

Quotes

“Young people are the future of our country, and when we invest in their skills, we’re investing in the long-term strength of our communities. Today’s investment will help ensure that young people not only find good opportunities in Northern Ontario, but choose to build their futures here. Together, we’re ensuring that the next generation is ready to lead and grow our economy for years to come.”

– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister Responsible for FedNor

“Creating jobs for young Canadians supports our governments strategy to build a workforce for the future that includes every generation. These internships will provide a fair chance for young people in Northern Ontario to develop their skills and fully participate as active members of Canada’s economy. This FedNor funding is not only a smart investment, it’s the right thing to do so youth can grow up in Northern Ontario knowing they have equitable opportunities to pursue their career ambitions.”

– Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development), and Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming

“Northern Ontario’s small and medium-sized businesses thrive when they can attract and keep talented young people. Through this program, we’re giving youth the chance to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields, while helping local employers grow and innovate. It’s a win-win — young professionals launch their careers, and our SMEs gain the skills and energy they need to succeed in a competitive economy.”

– Gilles Matko, Executive Director, Nord-Aski Regional Economic Development Corporation

Quick facts

The funds announced today are in part provided through the 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.
Since 2009, FedNor’s Youth Internship Initiative has created an estimated 764 internships – helping young people launch careers right here in Northern Ontario.
63% of interns staying with their host employer, 83% moving into jobs related to their internship, and 91% planning to keep working 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

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