Investing in Strong, Prosperous Aboriginal Communities
Ontario Government Supporting Consultation Capacity, Economic Development
February 11, 2014
Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs
Ontario is continuing to support local projects that create jobs and promote economic development opportunities in First Nation communities.
Through the New Relationship Fund (NRF), Ontario is supporting First Nations, Métis communities and Aboriginal organizations as they build consultation capacity, industry partnerships and engage in sustainable economic development.
NRF projects help Aboriginal communities hire staff, host industry meetings, draft business plans and develop important business tools. This helps create more opportunities for jobs and helps build relationships among Aboriginal people, government and industry.
Strengthening communities by supporting strategic growth is part of the Ontario government’s plan to invest in people, build modern infrastructure, and support a dynamic and innovative business climate.
Quick Facts
- Originally announced as a four-year commitment in 2008, Ontario will continue to invest in the New Relationship Fund on an ongoing basis, given the success of the program.
- Ontario is increasing the amount available for core-consultation capacity projects from a maximum of $80,000 per year to $90,000 per year.
- Over the past five years, the New Relationship Fund has created more than 540 jobs across Ontario and provided skills training to thousands of Aboriginal people.
- The fund has supported more than 500 projects undertaken by 193 First Nation and Métis communities and organizations.
Quotes
“The New Relationship Fund helps Aboriginal communities build the capacity they need to take part in consultation with government and industry, create jobs and leverage economic development opportunities. Our government is committed to sustaining the program and ensuring First Nation and Métis communities in Ontario prosper.”
David Zimmer
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
“Our government’s New Relationship Fund is an essential tool that is strengthening partnerships between Aboriginal communities and industry across Northern Ontario. This program gives Aboriginal communities the support they need to fully participate in economic development projects that strengthen regional economies and create good jobs.”
Michael Gravelle
Minister of Northern Development and Mines
“Over the years the New Relationship Fund has helped Treaty 3 communities strengthen and utilize our Resource Law in work with government and industry on a number of economic development projects and natural resource initiatives. I am pleased Ontario is continuing to invest in this vital program.”
Ogichidaa Warren White
Grand Council Treaty #3
Background
Supporting Economic Opportunities in Aboriginal Communities
Ontario is helping First Nations, Métis communities and Aboriginal organizations build consultation capacity and explore new economic development activities.
Learn More
Media Contacts
Scott Cavan
Minister’s Office
scott.cavan@ontario.ca
416-314-6212
Flavia Mussio
Media Contact
Flavia.Mussio@ontario.ca
416-314-9455
NT5
