Province says it's helping diversify Aboriginal economies

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS

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Ontario Invests in Aboriginal Economic Development in Northeastern Ontario

Ontario is supporting economic development opportunities for Aboriginal communities with funding of more than $1 million to support seven different projects in northeastern Ontario.

Through the Aboriginal Economic Development Fund (AEDF), the province is helping to create jobs, support new skills training opportunities and improve economic outcomes for Aboriginal people.

The seven projects represent a range of opportunities aimed at encouraging economic diversification in northeastern Ontario, from providing training opportunities for Aboriginal people in mining to supporting Aboriginal communities as they develop economic plans and pursue commercial and industrial parks.

Supporting economic development for Aboriginal communities is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up.

The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.

"We extend our gratitude to Ontario for giving Garden River First Nation the opportunity to expand in its business and economic ventures with our study to diversify our economy," said Lyle Sayers, Chief, Garden River First Nation

"The AEDF helps Aboriginal communities diversify and create more resilient and sustainable economies. We’re excited to announce support for more projects that will help Aboriginal communities, businesses and organizations plan for future prosperity in northeastern Ontario," said David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs

QUICK FACTS

• The AEDF is investing $25 million over three years in Aboriginal businesses and communities. Ontario has also partnered with six Aboriginal financial institutions to deliver the AEDF Business and Community Fund, which provides grants for economic capacity-building projects in Aboriginal communities, and business financing for promising community projects and Aboriginal-owned businesses.
• Ontario previously announced Economic Diversification Grants to support four other projects in northeastern Ontario, two projects in the Kenora area and 16 projects in northwestern Ontario.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• The Aboriginal Economic Development Fund
• List of tools and supports for Aboriginal Peoples

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