$2.1 Million to Help Job Seekers Start Their Careers
October 10, 2025NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, announced that the Ontario government is investing $2.1 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help 68 job seekers across Nipissing gain valuable work experience that will benefit them in their future careers.
“The Ontario government is helping people access meaningful career development to grow the skilled workforce needed for Nipissing’s economic growth,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “Today’s $2.1 million investment provides internship opportunities for a variety of companies and organizations, including small businesses, not-for-profits, post-secondary institutions, and manufacturers, which reflects the diversity of the NOHFC’s People and Talent Program.”
Funding came through the NOHFC’s Workforce Development Program, which helps people who are new to the workforce, changing careers, currently unemployed, or underemployed. The program tackles labour shortages by supporting internships in important sectors like manufacturing, mining, and many more.
Some of the NOHFC internship investments include the following:
- $70,000 for Fabrene to hire an Industrial Mechanic (millwright) Apprentice and a Construction & Maintenance Electrician Apprentice.
- $35,000 for Nipissing First Nations Mnogin Greenhouse to hire a System Operator Intern.
- $25,869 for MetricAid Inc to hire a scheduler.
- $19,342 for Stroma Automation Solutions Inc. to hire an Electrical & Instrumentation Technician at their facility in Callander.
Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions, and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario.
The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.
Quotes
“The NOHFC funding came at a critical juncture in our journey, offering Stroma Automation Solutions the financial backing that allowed us to seize an incredible opportunity for growth. At a time when the potential for expansion was right in front of us, but the resources were lacking, this support proved to be the catalyst we needed. It didn’t just provide the means to expand our operations—it instilled the confidence to take bold steps forward, opening doors to new possibilities and elevating our vision to new heights.” – Claudel Leveille, SCADA/PLC Technician & Automation Specialist, Stroma Automation Solutions Inc.
“Recruiting qualified tradespeople has been a longstanding challenge in our region,” said Prabhu Srinivasa, Plant Director at Fabrene Inc. “By relaunching this apprenticeship program in partnership with NOHFC, we are not only enhancing our team’s capabilities but also contributing to the sustainability and growth of skilled trades across Northern Ontario.”
“We are grateful to the Government of Ontario and NOHFC for this investment in the Mnogin Greenhouse. This support strengthens our commitment to food sovereignty and sustainable practices while creating meaningful opportunities for our people. Together, we are building a healthier future for Nipissing First Nation.” – Gimaa Cathy Stevens, Nipissing First Nation.”
“We are grateful for the support of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, which continues to strengthen businesses and communities across the North. This funding helps organizations like ours grow sustainably, create new opportunities, and contribute to the long-term vitality of the region. With this support, we can expand our work while staying rooted in Northern Ontario, ensuring local communities share in the benefits of innovation and economic development.” – Lora Webb, CEO, MetricAid
Quick Facts
- Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.
- Since June 2018, the NOHFC’s Workforce Development Program has approved more than $90 million, leveraging more than $62 million in investment and supporting more than 2,700 work placements in Northern Ontario.
Additional Resources
- The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.