FedNor funds will suppport agricultural sector development, as well as the advancement of Indigenous-led initiatives in the region
May 14, 2026 - Fort Frances, ON - Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario - FedNor
Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, today announced a total FedNor investment of $558,139 in four economic development projects in the Fort Frances area. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
As part of the funding, Rainy River Cattlemen's Association is receiving $302,220 to support phase two of the construction and productivity improvements to a regional sales barn. Specifically, this project includes updating of the pole barn, improvements to road access, and the installation of improved lighting. These upgrades will reduce sorting, loading, and unloading times, which will increase individual sales as well as sale events. This initiative will benefit over 200 farms across the northwest region.
The Rainy River Grain Company Ltd. is receiving a total investment of $198,419 for two projects:
First, $150,000 in FedNor funds will support a facility and equipment expansion. Specifically, the investment will enable the purchase of a crane, welder, lathe, and scanner, as well as hoist lifts, a jack stand, and other equipment. These tools will enable Rainy River Grain Company to increase efficiency and improve processes in the service and repair of trucks, trailers, and agricultural equipment, and will allow the business to become a Motor Vehicle Inspection Station.
Rainy River Grain Company Ltd. is also receiving $48,419 to support the purchase, installation, and certification of a full-length scale in order to increase the efficiency and accuracy of agri-food transactions for farmers in the Rainy River region. This initiative will allow farmers to save time during harvest season by simplifying and reducing time required to collect and safely store harvested crop. This increase in productivity will allow farmers and service providers to dedicate more labour hours to value-added activities as well as the growth and maintenance of farms. The scale will also significantly reduce emissions and costs by decreasing idling times for the large haul vehicles used by the farmers and by the service provider.
The fourth project receiving funding is being led by Grand Council Treaty #3. This FedNor investment of $57,500 will enable the creation of a youth internship aimed at assessing consumer spending across Treaty #3 territory. The study will identify potential economic development opportunities by capturing local spending behaviours and identifying gaps in local goods and service. This critical document will help provide actionable insights to community leaders, businesses and investors, and policymakers.
These four projects will help enhance economic development in the Rainy River district area. These investments will not only help drive growth in the agricultural sector, but will help improve local efficiency and production while reducing emissions. FedNor's support will help improve a critical industry that is a net exporter for the region, creating impactful economic gain for communities in the Rainy River district area.
