TORONTO—The Ontario government is providing $9.2 million in grants in funding to Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, communities and organizations in the province, including Manitoulin Island, to support lasting economic prosperity. These investments are part of Ontario’s commitment to economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
“Our government understands that Indigenous partners are uniquely positioned to identify and seize opportunities that drive growth within their communities,” said Greg Rickford, minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “This investment of $9.2 million strengthens our commitment to ensuring First Nations communities have the resources they need to plan, build, and train for success, leading to lasting economic reconciliation.”
The Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF) and the Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program (ICCGP) are annual funds that support recipients across the province to develop infrastructure, create growth plans and provide employment services to help strengthen Indigenous communities and local economies. For 2024-2025 Ontario is supporting 48 initiatives across the province with a total commitment of $3.2 million for the IEF and a total commitment of $6 million for ICCGP.
Aundeck Omni-Kaning First Nation is receiving $75,000 for a feasibility study to be carried out for a community training centre, with the Whitefish River First Nation (WRFN) receiving funding of $75,000 towards a feasibility study for a business centre.
Funding of $100,000 is being provided to Indigenous Tourism Ontario toward rejuvenating Indigenous tourism.
The Wikwemikong Development Commission is to receive funding of $100,000 for a destination and investment marketing plan update and implementation.
