News Release
*****************
Projects in northeastern Ontario that have recently been approved for funding from the Rural Economic
Development program include:
Mattawa-Bonfield Economic Development Corporation will receive up to $20,000 to redevelop its
travel website and to provide social media and hospitality workshops for local businesses and
organizations.
The Village of Burk’s Falls will receive up to $28,970 to rehabilitate the Towne Cinema, including
replacement of obsolete equipment. These necessary enhancements will ensure the continuation of
seasonal jobs and have the potential to create more long-term employment through additional
programming.
The Municipality of French River will receive up to $30,000 to develop existing businesses, support
new entrepreneurial activities, particularly among the young, and attract new businesses to the
community.
The Wikwemikong Development Commission Project will receive up to $20,000 to carry out a study
investigating the potential for a commercial crop investment that could benefit the whole community.
The Temiskaming Native Women's Support Group will receive up to $205,528 for the Aboriginal
Women in Mining project. This innovative project will train First Nations and Metis women in jobs
related to the mining industry.
For a full list of projects supported by Rural Economic Development program, click here.
Supporting rural communities is part of the government’s economic plan for Ontario. The four-part plan is
strengthening Ontario by investing in people's talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like
roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives and building a
secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.
QUOTES
“We are unwavering in our commitment to building Northern Ontario up. Our government’s RED
investments in the Northeast help to strengthen and diversify economies and build more prosperous and
sustainable communities.”
— Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines
“A strong, prosperous Ontario includes vibrant, economically diverse rural communities. Our commitment
to rural Ontario is unwavering. By providing economic development support at both the local and regional
level, the Rural Economic Development program will help rural Ontario’s economy, and its communities,
grow stronger.”
— Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
QUICK FACTS
Since 2003, Ontario has invested more than $178 million in 549 Rural Economic Development -related
projects, generating more than $1.2 billion in local economic activity and creating more than 36,000
jobs.
Since the program re-launch in 2013, 150 Rural Economic Development projects were approved with
a provincial investment of over $21.8 million, generating over $120 million in new economic activity.
Ontario has increased its annual commitment to the Rural Economic Development program by
$10 million to $14.5 million to help rural Ontario generate investment and create jobs.
The government is also supporting regional economic development through programs such as the
Eastern Ontario Development Fund, the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, and the Northern
Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.
