Mining Innovation Investments Announced
SUDBURY – MINING – “Mining is a vital sector of Northern Ontario’s economy and the Harper Government is proud to invest in strategic initiatives that encourage the development and commercialization of new value-added products, processes and services, as well as assist companies to expand their markets. Today’s announcement further demonstrates our commitment to provide communities and businesses with the tools they need to create jobs and ensure the prosperity of this region,” commented Minister Rickford.
Greg Rickford, the federal Minister of Natural Resources, and the Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor) has announced an investment for two initiatives that will support innovation, create jobs and diversify the economy of Northern Ontario in the mining sector.
A FedNor investment of $1,250,000 will enable the Northern Centre for Advanced Technology (NORCAT) to renovate and expand its facilities to create an incubator centre for tech start-ups; expand and upgrade its underground technology testing and innovation centre; and establish a product discovery lab to support companies in designing and developing advanced manufacturing products.
An additional $681,644 will be used by the City of Greater Sudbury, on behalf of Ontario’s North Economic Development Corporation, to deliver the Mining Supply and Service Export Assistance program to increase the number of exporting firms in Northern Ontario’s mining supply and service industry, increase the value of exports and improve the capacity of firms to compete globally.
Quick Facts
- The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region;
- Since 2006, through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, the Government of Canada has invested more than $308 million in support of 1,500 projects. These investments have created more than 15,000 jobs throughout Northern Ontario.
