FedNor funding will support companies as they retool their operations to pursue opportunities in the defence supply chain
The global landscape is shifting rapidly. The international rules-based order is fading, and technological change is expanding the fields of conflict. In response, Canada's new government is focused on what we can control to protect Canada's sovereignty, build our prosperity, and strengthen our strategic autonomy. A strong defence industry is key to Canada's national sovereignty and security as well as its economic resilience and long-term prosperity.
That is why, today, Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development) announced a FedNor investment of $976,650 to help The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc. (The Business Centre NPS) launch the Northern Ontario Defence Opportunities Project (NODOP). The announcement was be made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Funded through the Government of Canada's Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII), this priority project will help businesses become more competitive and prepare them to pursue opportunities within the defence sector supply chain. Led by The Business Centre NPS, in partnership with the City of North Bay's Economic Development Department, the NODOP will provide performance‑based contributions of up to $50,000 to eligible firms across the North. The funding will support activities such as specialized certifications, consultant services related to cybersecurity, controlled goods compliance, and quality assurance. It will also help offset costs associated with ISO standards, equipment upgrades and market‑entry or diversification initiatives, including participation in technology demonstrations and industry showcases.
As part of the project, a coordinator will be hired to complete the program design, support stakeholder engagement, and implement the initiative. This includes researching best practices, defining eligibility criteria and a funding framework, as well as formalizing the application and review processes. The Program Coordinator will also align the NODOP with the Northern Ontario Road to Defence (NORD) initiative to maintain a cohesive, region‑wide approach to defence‑related programming. Outreach efforts would target businesses across Northern Ontario, in both official languages, supported by an online application system designed to streamline intake.
This strategic initiative supports the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthen Canadian businesses, reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers, and build domestic capacity for defence manufacturing and services. It also aligns with the federal government's Defence Investment Strategy, a $6.6-billion plan to prioritize building military equipment at home, hike the share of defence contracts awarded to Canadian firms and add up to 125,000 new jobs over the next decade.
