Creating Jobs, Growth and Strong Economy in Northern Ontario’s Indigenous Communities

Press Release

FedNor investment to accelerate business and economic growth in Mattagami First Nation

July 24, 2018 – Mattagami First Nation, ON – Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario – FedNor

Families and businesses in the Mattagami First Nation will benefit from new economic opportunities thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $88,200. This targeted investment will enable the Mattagami First Nation to complete a waterfront feasibility study and master plan to help maximize the tourism and economic potential of this Indigenous community.

The funding was announced today by Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedNor.

Once complete, the feasibility study will determine the viability of pursuing various economic opportunities such as establishing a marina, RV park, fish hatchery, and events centre. With the goal of capitalizing on opportunities related to its Mattagami Lake waterfront expansion efforts, the master plan will create an economic roadmap to help prioritize and guide immediate and future development decisions in the community.

Quotes

“Our government is proud to invest in strategic initiatives that create middle-class jobs and accelerate growth in the Mattagami First Nation and all of Northern Ontario’s Indigenous communities. This targeted investment will support a strong economy by helping maximize the tourism and economic potential of the community’s waterfront development efforts.”

– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor

“The Government of Canada is pleased to invest in Mattagami First Nation to support business development and growth, while creating jobs and a stronger middle class. By assisting the community with its waterfront development strategy, we are helping to create winning conditions that will strengthen the economic outlook for families, businesses and communities throughout the region.”

– Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt

“We are excited to partner with FedNor and the Government of Canada to strengthen local tourism and create new business opportunities in Mattagami First Nation. I am pleased that the federal government recognizes our unique needs and is investing to make our community a better place to live, work, play and visit.”

– Chief Chad Boissoneau, Mattagami First Nation

Quick facts

The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.
The recently released Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario outlines the Government of Canada’s approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan. It is focused on three key economic development areas: supporting innovation; growing companies; and building stronger communities.

Associated links

Contacts

Barclay Babcock
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-690-0957
barclay.babcock@canada.ca

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