15 small business initiatives will receive federal support, helping to create and maintain over 681 jobs
October 18, 2022 - Thunder Bay, ON - Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario - FedNor
In recognition of Small Business Week, and to celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship in the North, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced FedNor investments totalling $8,165,932 to support, sustain, and grow small businesses across Northern Ontario. Provided through FedNor's core programs, the investments will support 15 small business-related projects in municipalities and Indigenous communities across the region, helping to create and maintain 681 jobs.
For the full list of projects and investment details, please see the backgrounder.
Small businesses are one of the largest employers of Canadians, with over 60% of the workforce employed by this key sector prior to the pandemic. In 2019, rural areas were home to 312,500 small businesses, making them a cornerstone of regional economies. This includes Northern Ontario, where FedNor is stepping up efforts to help small businesses recover, innovate, start or scale-up and create local jobs.
