FedNor to invest $4.19M in nine initiatives in Timmins and surrounding communities

The federal government, through FedNor, is investing $4,185,028 in nine initiatives in Timmins and surrounding communities, Minister Patty Hajdu announced June 29.

The funding is aimed at a mix of municipal projects, business expansion and modernization, research at Northern College, and new tourism offerings. The projects include immigration pilot programs, a proposed industrial park in Iroquois Falls, modernization at two local companies, and new tourism attractions.

According to the FedNor release, the City of Timmins will receive funding to launch two immigration pilot programs and extend its BOOST program for three more years. FedNor said the pilot programs are intended to address skilled labour shortages.

The Town of Iroquois Falls will receive funding to establish a new industrial park.

The Porcupine District Agricultural Society will receive funding to expand a waterfront pavilion at the regional Farmers’ Market.

Northern College will receive funding for industry-academic research that FedNor said will help businesses commercialize new products.

Two companies—Bucket Shop and Epitron Inc.—will receive funding to modernize and expand their operations.

Two tourism operators—Mount Jamieson Resort and Cedar Meadows Resort—will receive funding to introduce new tourism offerings and attractions.

A project-by-project funding breakdown was not included in the release.

The money is being provided through three FedNor programs: the Regional Growth Through Innovation Fund, the Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario, and the Northern Ontario Development Program.

Hajdu said the funding will help communities, businesses and workers “expand, hire, and build for the future.”