ATIKOKAN – “The tourism industry continues to be an important part of the economy of Ontario, and I am pleased that, once again, our Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation with its increased monetary capacity is helping to create private sector employment,” stated Bill Mauro, MPP Thunder Bay-Atikokan. The expansion and improvement of Exclusive Wilderness Excursions will enhance the region as a tourism destination and create jobs. NOHFC has approved funding in the amount of $123,500 under its Enterprise North Job Creation Program, to allow Exclusive Wilderness Excursions to build an 8 unit motel and equip its excursion operation in Atikokan, Ontario.
This project will create six new jobs, plus related construction jobs.
The establishment of a new venture, Calm Lake Bread Co., a bakery which will create whole grain bread products in a wood-fired brick oven, will cater to health-conscious consumers. NOHFC funding in the amount of $4,275 will assist construction of an outdoor oven, and will create up to three new jobs.
“I am pleased and grateful for NOHFC’s help in making my vision become a reality. Opening Exclusive Wilderness Excursions (aka ‘Sapawe Corner’) will enhance the Atikokan/Quetico area, providing improved accommodations, meals, outfitting and guiding services to area residents, visitors and tourists. I am really looking forward to serving our community!,” said Linda Kennard, Owner/Operator – Exclusive Wilderness Excursions.
“I am pleased to be working with the NOHFC in the start-up of my company, Calm Lake Bread Co. With their financial assistance I will be able to build a brick oven and ramp up the scale of my operations to a full time business. I appreciate the opportunity to work with the NOHFC to take my business from just an idea to a functioning entity,” commented Elizabeth Fiore, Proprietor – Calm Lake Bread Co.
“Through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, our government is providing financial assistance to the private sector to help bring new jobs and economic prosperity to the North,” stated Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).
QUICK FACTS
- Exclusive Wilderness Excursions is located at the junction of Hwy 11 and Hwy 623 (Sapawe Junction) overlooking the south portion of Niobe Lake, approximately 25 km. east of Atikokan
- Calm Lake Bread Co. is located on Flanders Road, approximately 40 km. west of Atikokan