Meet the Minister for FedNor

As Minister for FedNor, I am proud to be a part of such a progressive and innovative organization. Canada’s new government believes that local challenges are best defined and met by local communities. With FedNor’s help, your government is delivering on its commitment to Northern and rural Ontario.

FedNor’s role is one of facilitator and catalyst, bringing private and public sector partners together to create an environment in which communities can thrive, businesses can grow and people can prosper.

FedNor’s two funding vehicles, the Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP) and the Community Futures Program (CFP) work together to enhance business, bolster community economic development and sustain the long-term future of Northern and rural Ontario.

In Northern Ontario, FedNor is helping communities gain access to broadband services and eliminating barriers to the global marketplace. Our popular Youth Internship Program is helping to train and retain our young people in their home communities. By supporting trade, tourism, and business financing initiatives, we are ensuring that Northern Ontario will excel in this knowledge-based economy.

In rural Ontario, FedNor provides support to 61 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs). Locally run and specifically focused on addressing local needs, CFDCs play a vital role in the growth of small business and community economic development throughout the province.

Clearly, FedNor’s investment is having a positive impact in Northern and rural Ontario. I encourage you to contact the FedNor office nearest you for information on how your community can benefit from our approach to community economic development.

Together, we will continue to open doors and build futures for a prosperous Northern and rural Ontario.

The Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Health
Minister for FedNor