FedNor funds will provide youth with paid internships that support of economic development across the region
The global economy is rapidly changing, and many Canadians are feeling the effects at home-including workers and young people looking for jobs in a challenging job market. In response, the Government of Canada is focused on what it can control: creating good jobs for young people across Northern Ontario to gain meaningful work experience that will set them on a path to a successful future.
Today. Pauline Rochefort, Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development), and Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming, announced a total FedNor investment of $1,783,100 aimed at supporting paid youth internships across Northern Ontario. 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 funds announced today, FedNor is investing $1,725,600 in Nord-Aski Regional Economic Development Corporation (REDC) to support the continued delivery of the youth internship program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Northern Ontario. Administered by Nord-Aski REDC in partnership with 19 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs), the four-year program will generate 60 internship positions in priority sectors. This initiative was designed to help Northern Ontario businesses attract, develop, and retain young talent, supporting economic growth and job creation across the region.
The remaining $57,500 will allow Wahkohtowin Development GP Inc., to hire a youth intern for 18 months to support Indigenous land stewardship projects, focusing on sustainable forestry and the conservation economy. While on the job, the intern will support initiatives as the Height of Land Ecological Corridor Project, Guardians Program, Indigenous Lands Symposium, and more.
By supporting youth employment, the Government of Canada is helping communities grow stronger, economies become more resilient, and Northern Ontario's future remain bright for generations to come.
