Government of Canada investment helps the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre expand its presence in Kenora and Rainy River regions.
April 15, 2019 - Kenora, ON - Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor
The Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre (NOIC) is increasing its level of support to innovators and entrepreneurs in the Kenora and Rainy River districts, including Treaty 3 communities, thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $500,776 through FedNor. The Innovation Centre is a key player in the innovation ecosystem in Northwestern Ontario, helping pioneering companies to start, grow, and succeed. This contribution will enable the organization to meet the growing demand for its services by adding one full-time employee as well as additional advisory services at its newly opened office at the Northwest Business Centre in Kenora.
The Honourable Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
The new staff member in Kenora will provide support and resources to small innovative businesses in the region and contribute to a strengthened regional innovation ecosystem. In addition, the Innovation Centre will offer events, workshops and activities focused on cultivating innovation and technology throughout Kenora, Rainy River and Treaty 3 communities
"Our government is laying the foundation for Canadians to become more competitive and succeed in the global economy. Today's investment in the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre builds on our competitive advantages and will result in increasing services for innovative businesses, boosting economic growth and creating good, middle-class jobs for Canadians."
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor
"I am pleased that our government's investment has helped to make this project a reality and that it will support innovative entrepreneurs in their efforts to start, expand or strengthen their businesses. Demand for the Innovation Centre's services in the region has more than doubled in recent years and this new resource will help meet this need, grow our regional innovation ecosystem, and foster increased entrepreneurship activity."
- The Honourable Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora
"We would like to thank the Government of Canada for its support through FedNor. The addition of a new advisor and office in Kenora will help us keep up with the demand, as well as look to strengthen our network, increase synergies, and offer more and better innovation programs and services to our regional client base."
- Judy Sander, Manager, Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre
Quick facts
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The Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario outlines the Government of Canada's approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan. It is focused on three key economic development areas: supporting innovation; growing companies; and building stronger communities.
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The funding announced today is provided through FedNor's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program which supports projects that help entrepreneurs start and grow businesses and create the conditions for the development of strong, dynamic and inclusive regional innovation ecosystems across Northern Ontario.
