The Northern Ontario Farm Innovation Alliance (NOFIA) is getting federal funding support to strengthen Northern Ontario’s agri-food sector.
Announced on July 25, the $702,713 in funds will improve local value chains, advance technology adoption, and promote sustainable practices, according to FedNor, which is providing the funds. NOFIA will also assess key production and procurement challenges, and explore infrastructure investments to support aggregation, storage, and distribution.
The idea is to expand market opportunities and increase demand for products produced in Northern Ontario.
“This investment is a game-changer for agriculture in Northern Ontario. It allows us to strengthen our regional food systems, support producers of all sizes, and explore innovative technologies that will shape the future of farming in the North,” said Emily Seed, NOFIA’s executive director, in a news release.
“By working together with communities and partners, we’re helping to build a more sustainable, resilient, and locally focused agri-food sector that benefits everyone.”
With this funding, NOFIA expects to help expand and modernize 120 businesses, and create 60 new jobs over three years, which will support the development of nearly 2,000 acres of farmland.
It’s also expected to help attract more than $1 million in industry investment and economic benefits for the region.
In the same announcement, FedNor said it’s providing $160,310 for the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) to help the organization produce and distribute videos promoting the business opportunities available in Northern Ontario.
“Northern Ontario is full of opportunity, and it’s time the rest of Canada sees it. With this support, FONOM will be able to shine a spotlight on our communities, our workforce, and the industries that drive our economy,” said Danny Whalen, FONOM’s president, in the release.
“These videos will help attract new businesses, skilled workers, and families to the region by showcasing the unique advantages of living, working, and investing in the North.”
The video project, which began five years ago, features businesses across industries and from each of the North’s various regions.
The most recent video, featuring the Canal District in Sault Ste. Marie, debuted in mid-July.
