The Government of Canada announces its intent to invest up to $5.45 million towards the growth of the Northern Super League at the NSL Final in Toronto
Sport connects us all, fostering a sense of community and shared pride while bringing people together and contributing to local economies. Today marks a defining moment for Canadian sport as the Northern Super League (NSL)-Canada's first professional women's soccer league-hosts the NSL Final at BMO Field in Toronto. Following an exciting season, the NSL has captured the hearts of fans and inspired a new generation of athletes.
NSL's Final is not only a celebration of athletic excellence but also of community, economic impact and opportunity, drawing visitors from across the country and abroad, boosting local businesses and showcasing women's sport on an international stage. The event caps off a three-day celebration of Canadian talent, with fan festivals, community programming, and the much-anticipated championship match, that is being delivered with support from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
Before the game today, the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario was joined by the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions; the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada; and the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport), who met with the NSL to announce that the agencies have entered into discussions with the League to assess its needs to support the growth of women's professional soccer in Canada and position Canada as a global leader in this growing industry.
Today's announcement reflects Canada's Regional Development Agencies working together to support the growth of women's professional sport across the country. By coordinating their efforts, the RDAs are helping strengthen communities, boost local economies, and contribute to a cross-Canada league that is creating new opportunities on and off the field.
This could represent a combined investment of up to $5.45 million to deliver transformative upgrades for facilities used by the league across the country. Each RDA would use the tools available under its existing programs, contributing to a coherent, pan-Canadian approach. Additional opportunities to support targeted community infrastructure that advances NSL's growth and regional economic development across Canada will also be explored.
The Government of Canada is building a strong Canada by making investments that strengthen our communities, grow local economies and support projects that are inclusive of all Canadians.
