The Ontario government is investing $1.21 million to help launch and expand two local businesses, as well as renew a community playground in Wasauksing First Nation.
The funding, being provided through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, is part of the province’s plan to make strategic investments in northern communities to revitalize local infrastructure and support stronger, more resilient economies.
“Establishing safe spaces for families and fostering growth for small businesses are essential in developing strong, resilient and self-reliant northern communities,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government is proud to support these projects in Wasauksing First Nation that aim to boost the local economy and ensure recreational infrastructure is available and accessible to the community.”
The majority of the funding, more than $848,000, will allow Wasauksing Maple Products to broaden operations by renovating its processing facility. The renovation will include building a new kitchen and retail space, buying new equipment and investing in marketing and training.
A $200,000 investment will allow Wasauksing First Nation to remove the playground structure outside of its community building and purchase and install a new one. This will include a swing set, outdoor musical instruments and several play structures.
A $167,000 investment will allow Migizi Gardens to obtain and install a compact, indoor garden system for growing plants without soil, that will provide healthy local produce year-round.
“These investments reflect our government’s commitment to strengthening small businesses and community spaces in rural and northern Ontario,” said Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka.
