News

Almost $1 Million to Support Economic Development and Job Creation in Nipissing

NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is investing $942,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for 32 job placement opportunities in Nipissing. This investment will help strengthen and develop the regions workforce.

“Our government is helping northerners find new opportunities to gain hands-on experience to build careers right here at home,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “The variety of companies and organizations taking advantage of the NOHFC grants includes small businesses, not-for-profits, post-secondary institutions and manufacturers, and shows the diversity of the program.”

Some of the NOHFC internship investments include:

• $65,000 for Fabrene Inc to hire a Construction and Maintenance Electrician Apprentice and an Industrial Mechanic Apprentice to maintain plant equipment, grounds and buildings in the highest operating condition.
• $35,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Bay and District Inc to hire a Caseworker to recruit, screen and train volunteer mentors, match mentors to children, establish care plans and provide resources to low-income families.
• $33,700 for Pathway’s Wellness Clinic Inc to hire an Advanced Foot Care Nurse to conduct foot and lower limb assessments, provide foot care treatments, teach clients about preventative and restorative strategies and prepare electronic scheduling and documentation.

“NOHFC funding has been instrumental in creating a full-time nursing position with Pathways. MPP Fedeli’s support has been fundamental in empowering Pathways Wellness and Medical Foot Care to elevate our impact on underserved communities. This commitment enables us to provide comprehensive healthcare services and strengthens our resolve to make a positive difference in the lives of those in need within this great community.” – Brittany & Shawn Louiseize, CEO’s, Pathways Wellness Clinic.

“The NOHFC People and Talent program has made it possible for Big Brothers Big Sisters to hire a skilled social worker to recruit, screen and train our volunteers and to assess our clients.  This funding has made it possible for hundreds of local children and youth to be matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister or to enrol in our school groups and transitional services.” – Darlene Jamieson, Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Bay and District.

“This funding marks a pivotal moment for Fabrene as we strive to address the pressing challenges in today’s labor market, particularly in the technical trades sector. It will allow us to develop and implement a robust training program for these critical and valuable skills. The reinstatement of the apprenticeship program is not just a response to the current market conditions; it’s a forward-looking strategy to cultivate a pool of certified, skilled professionals who will drive the future of our industry. This program is more than just training; it’s an opportunity for personal and professional growth for our team members. We believe this collaboration with NOHFC is a testament to our commitment to bridging the skilled labor gap in the market. Together, we are investing in our people, our community, and sustainable economic growth.” – Dave May, Site Director, Fabrene® – Berry Global, Inc.

The NOHFC promotes economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects—big and small, rural and urban—that stimulate growth, job creation and skills development. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $726 million in 6,128 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 9,500 jobs.

Quick Fact

• The Ontario government launched new and improved NOHFC programs that support more projects in rural northern communities and make it easier for more people and businesses to apply. The programs target existing and emerging markets, provide more work opportunities for Indigenous people and address the skilled labour shortage in the North.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres are available to support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and assist in accessing government funding programs.
• The NOHFC’s Cultural Supports Program showcases Northern Ontario culture, geography and talent through event partnerships and support for the production of films and television series.
• The NOHFC’s Community Enhancement Program builds strong and resilient northern communities through targeted investments in critical infrastructure.
• The NOHFC’s Invest North Program boosts economic growth and attracts more investment by supporting business development, expansion and innovation.