Minister Rickford and FedNor’s Mark Wright – Putting the North in FedNor

Putting the North in FedNor

THUNDER BAY - “Our Government is committed to ensuring entrepreneurs and businesses across Canada have the right tools and expertise they need to take advantage of economic development opportunities that lead to job creation, economic growth and the long-term prosperity of our communities,” said Minister Rickford. “Today’s announcement does just that by enabling the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund to provide targeted support to First Nation businesses throughout the region, giving them the tools to seize and capitalize on opportunities related to the development of the Ring of Fire, right here in Northern Ontario.”

Experience in North Helps Minister Rickford

In Thunder Bay on Wednesday, Minister Rickford, addressing a business luncheon commented on how the government will be moving forward with respect for the rights and culture of First Nations, and with an eye to respecting the balance needed for job creation.

“We are excited about this strategic funding as it will help enhance entrepreneurial and business skills, increase business opportunities for our youth, and ensure the long-term sustainability of new businesses in our communities by providing the support services they need,” said Arlene Jung, Chair of Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund.

The Minister was in Thunder Bay last week as well making an announcement on funding for education with the Matawa First Nations.

The changes in perspectives is making a Northern Ontario MP the Minister responsible for FedNor has been noticed. Cliffs Natural Resources made those comments on Wednesday in Thunder Bay.

Support for NADF Encourages Entrepreneurship

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Harvey Yesno congratulates the eight recipients of the 22nd Annual Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF) Business Awards

Greg Rickford, Minister of State for Science and Technology, and FedNor, and Minister Responsible for the Ring of Fire, today announced a Harper Government investment to help the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund create jobs, enhance entrepreneurial and business planning skills, and promote business development and growth in Northwestern Ontario.

With a FedNor investment of $4,427,212 over three years, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF) will offer a variety of business development services, including marketing and communications, strategic planning, and project management. Resources will be available to First Nation communities serviced by NADF, with a strong focus on the nine Matawa communities, to help them successfully develop business opportunities and derive long-term economic benefit from mining-related developments.

Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF) is a federally funded Aboriginal Financial Institution that provides financing, business support, and economic development services to Aboriginal businesses in Northern Ontario. In addition to the variety of programs it offers, NADF is a Community Futures Development Corporation that provides small and medium-sized enterprises with access to capital and business counselling services.

The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that strengthen community economic development, enhance business growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.

“Our Government remains focused on providing the right environment for economic growth, through effective cooperation across all sectors, to keep Canadians working and to ensure the long-term prosperity of all our communities,” concluded Minister Rickford.