Over $166,000 for Community Project in Nipissing
October 14, 2026NIPISSING — Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is investing $166,600 in the North Bay Indigenous Hub’s Black Heritage Association of Nipissing District and Area through the Youth Opportunities Fund. This funding administered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through the Youth Innovations stream will help address local priorities, remove barriers, and help young people in our community build brighter futures.
“Our government is proud to invest in a project that will support the mental, social, and emotional well-being of Black and racialized youth in our community,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “Under the Youth Innovations stream, this grassroots project will provide culturally responsive athletic, artistic, and educational local programming to help build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.”
The province is investing in 36 community-led organizations and initiatives across Ontario through the OTF’s Youth Opportunities Fund. These grant recipients will lead innovative projects by conducting research, exploring new ideas, and developing community-driven solutions that improve the social and economic wellbeing of youth and strengthen supports for parents, guardians, and caregivers.
“The North Bay Indigenous Hub is grateful for the opportunity to support and mentor Black Heritage Association of Nipissing District and Area (BHANDA), a new grassroots organization, by sharing operational knowledge and guidance. The funding awarded through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Youth Opportunities Fund represents a transformative milestone for BHANDA and for Black youth across the Nipissing District. We are proud to be part of this important initiative and to support the development of much-needed services for Black youth in our community.” – Chief Executive Officer of the North Bay Indigenous Hub, Laureen Linklater-Pizzale.
“This is the first time a Black‑led community initiative in our region has been supported at this level, and it affirms the importance of creating culturally grounded spaces where Black children and youth can thrive. This investment allows us to expand youth innovation, leadership, and wellbeing programs that have been built by our community, for our community. We are grateful for the support from the OTF, North Bay Indigenous Hub, and our local MPP’s office, and we look forward to continuing the work of strengthening belonging, opportunity, and collective care for Black families in Nipissing District and Area.” – BHANDA’s Executive Director, Regan Jackson.
The Youth Opportunities Fund provides funding through three streams the Systems Innovations Stream, the Family Innovations Stream, and the Youth Innovations Stream. This support is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by empowering families and young people to thrive in their communities.
Quick Facts
- The 2026-2027 Youth Opportunities Fund grants will provide a total of $13.6 million in funding to grassroots groups and organizations across Ontario.
- Since its launch in 2013, YOF has provided approximately $163 million to more than 500 projects led by grassroots, youth- and parent-led groups and organizations.
Additional Information
- Learn more about the Youth Opportunities Fund
- See the full list of 2026-2027 Youth Opportunities Fund grant recipients