FedNor commits $8.2M to Indigenous community projects in Northern Ontario
Through its FedNor program, the federal government is committing more than $8.2 million to support 18 projects led by Indigenous communities and organizations across Northern Ontario.
The works include infrastructure development and expansion, critical studies and plans, as well as initiatives that will strengthen supply chains and cooperation between Indigenous communities. The projects will also expand Indigenous community and workforce engagement in natural resource development industries.
In addition to infrastructure improvements and several critical plans and studies, the projects are expected to create a number of other benefits, including more than 80 long-term jobs, more than 30 strategic alliances and partnerships, and more than 75 education and training sessions, workshops, and community engagement and consultation meetings.
At $4 million, the Independent First Nations Alliance will receive the largest share of the funding. The group plans to build aerospace infrastructure including hangars and other structures in remote First Nation communities. This project will enable academic and private partners to test drone battery technology performance in cold weather environments, and will support emergency operations and training activities including drone piloting.
“FedNor’s investment in critical aerospace infrastructure in remote First Nation communities is going to help provide new business, training, and employment opportunities,” said Mathew Hoppe, CEO of the Independent First Nations Alliance. “This support for aerospace innovation and development not only provides opportunities to attract new business investments and create jobs, but it will advance community development and safety, and help our member communities continue to build self reliance.”
Mishkeegogamang Ojibway First Nation is receiving a non-repayable investment of $364,500 to develop engineering and architectural plans for the Missabay Business Park and General Store.
North Caribou Lake First Nation is receiving a non-repayable investment of $250,000 to develop and complete a feasibility study for a multi-use facility in the community.
Pic Mobert First Nation is receiving a non-repayable investment of $124,833 to complete engineering, design, and project management for a new industrial and/or commercial development zone in the community.
Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek is receiving a non-repayable investment of $104,089 to develop a feasibility study for the establishment of an aggregate pit/quarry business.
The majority of projects being supported under this announcement are funded through FedNor’s 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 2015, FedNor has provided more than $299 million in NODP funding to support 858 projects across Northern Ontario.