Funding supports defence sector and accelerates area AI adoption, innovation, job creation and business growth
Over $4.5 million in federal funding is supporting six strategic initiatives in Nipissing-Timiskaming.
MP Pauline Rochefort says the projects will support Canada’s defence sector and accelerate AI adoption, innovation, job creation and business growth in North Bay and surrounding areas.
“I am pleased that this FedNor funding is helping local companies increase their productivity, commercialize new products, and take their businesses to the next level,” says Rochefort, who is also Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development). “In addition to supporting Canada’s defence sector, skills training and job creation, the federal government is stepping up for Nipissing–Timiskaming by helping businesses innovate and access the resources they need to succeed. These projects with IION and Canadore College are splendid examples of exactly that.”
Innovation Initiatives Ontario North (IION) receives more than $2.5 million to support the evolution of its Step Forward Entrepreneurs Program, kick-start its Ignite AI program and extend its Skills Development Placement Program.
“Thank you to FedNor and the Government of Canada for their ongoing support for these key programs,” says Matthew Doherty, Executive Director, IION. “As a result of this funding, IION can help more businesses innovate, adopt new technologies, increase sales, create new jobs, and develop new products. Our goal is to help innovators turn their ideas and projects into reality and today’s announcement will help make that happen.”
Officials say once complete, these projects are expected to support close to 150 businesses, create 120 jobs and maintain 105 more.
Just over $2 million is going to Canadore College to support the development of its Advanced Training Simulation Wing and to establish a new product development fund.
“Canadore is grateful for the continued support of FedNor and the Government of Canada,” says Dr. Sandra Efu, President and CEO, Canadore College. “The funding announced today by MP Rochefort will give us the capacity to engage in projects that meet the immediate and future needs of students, the defence sector, businesses and organizations across Northern Ontario. These priority initiatives will help fuel economic development and employment in the region by helping us expand our Advanced Training Simulation Wing and forge new and lasting strategic business alliances.”
The money will help advance aviation education and research, expand defence focused simulation capacity, support business growth, innovation and product development, while creating more than 30 new jobs.
Richard Coffinhttps://www.mynorthbaynow.com/Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years. From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.
