OREANDA-NEWS. July 14, 2016. Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario – FedNor

Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced an investment of \\$1,350,000 in support of small business development and growth in the Atikokan region.

The FedNor contribution will enable the Atikokan Economic Development Corporation to offer business counselling and access to capital services, as well as support community strategic planning initiatives for a three-year period.

Quick Facts

  • The funding announced today is provided through FedNor's Community Futures Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
  • Based in Atikokan, the Atikokan Economic Development Corporation is one of 24 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) funded by FedNor to serve Northern Ontario businesses and communities. CFDCs are community-based, not-for-profit organizations run by volunteer boards and staffed by experienced business and economic development professionals.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada is committed to helping small and medium-sized businesses expand, innovate and grow in Northern Ontario. By working in partnership with organizations, such as the Atikokan Economic Development Corporation, we are helping position the region for long-term economic success."

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

"Community Futures organizations perform an important function by being a catalyst for economic development and growth. Here in Atikokan, the CFDC has a long and rich history of leading diversification efforts, and helping new and existing businesses to grow."

– Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament of Thunder Bay—Rainy River

"We are proud of our ongoing partnership with the Government of Canada through FedNor and view its continued support in our organization as an endorsement of our leadership efforts, whether it be assisting area businesses and entrepreneurs succeed, or helping the community address its economic challenges."

– Jim Turner, Chair, Atikokan Economic Development Corporation