History: 2009

12.18.09

Ontario Announces New Tourism Regions

Quoted from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism website:

Ontario is paving the way for a stronger, more competitive tourism industry by supporting the formation of 13 new tourism regions and Regional Tourism Organizations. Regional Tourism Organizations will be established in regions across Ontario in early 2010.  These organizations will be responsible for working with tourism partners to enhance and grow that region’s tourism products and marketing activities.  This regional approach, developed in consultation with the tourism industry, will help better coordinate tourism marketing and management, attract increased visitation, generate more economic activity and create jobs across the province. The Province will help the industry transition to the new tourism regions by providing $25 million in each of the next two years. This funding is in addition to the $40 million in ongoing annual funding announced in the 2009 Ontario Budget.

To view the announcement from the Minister of Tourism: Click Here

To view the French Announcement from the Minister of Tourism: Click Here

Save the Date Announcement: Kenora Brownfield Event

The Lake of the Woods Development Commission is providing a regional workshop on brownfield re-development on Tuesday, January 19, 2010.  The goal of the workshop is to educate economic developers and members of their committees, commissions and boards as well as municipal staff and members of Council about the basic steps of brownfield re-development and introduce municipal tools and potential funding available from the provincial and federal governments.

Further details to follow soon.

The North Superior Workforce Planning Board has released its 2009 District of Thunder Bay Labour Market Inventory

The report focuses on six main industry sectors within the Thunder Bay district and offers a more detailed understanding of current labour market challenges and opportunities.

To view the press release: Click Here

The full report is available for viewing at www.nswpb.ca

12.17.09

Industry Canada/FedNor Announce Investments

News Releases (Click To View):

Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing Region

Kenora Region

Nipissing-Timiskaming Region

Sault Ste. Marie

Greater Sudbury Region

Thunder Bay Region

Kirkland Lake and Earlton Region

Backgrounders (Click To View):

Kenora Region

Nipissing-Timiskaming Region

Sault Ste. Marie

Greater Sudbury Region

Thunder Bay Region

Note: Above documents additionally available in French.

12.10.09

The New NODN Newsletter Is Here

To view the newsletter: Click Here

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) has appointed a new executive Director: Charla Robinson

To view the press release of this appointment: Click Here

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has recently completed a study that cites Canada's top entrepreneurial cities

To view the study: Click Here

11.30.09

The latest copy of the Superior North CFDC Newsletter is now available for viewing.

To view the newsletter: Click Here

11.24.09

Co-operative Development Initiative (CDI)

The Co-operative Development Initiative (CDI) is a Government of Canada program delivered in partnership with co-operative sector organizations to enhance the contribution of co-operatives to meeting the economic and social needs of Canadians. There are three program components:

(1) Advisory Services

(2) Innovative Co-operative Projects

(3) Research and Knowledge Development

To learn more about these programs, please visit: http://cccm.coopscanada.coop/en

Note: The next application deadline is December 31, 2009

11.20.09

EDAC Updates

The Marathon Economic Development Corporation is looking for successful models where EDC’s have partnered with private sector organizations whereby the private sector organization provides operational funding to the EDC through the form of a grant, donation or agreement.  Please send responses to Daryl Skworchinski, Town of Marathon @ along with a cc to the EDAC office at

~

EDAC is additionally hosting a variety of Economic Development programs through the University of Waterloo; one of which is occurring in Saskatoon, SK on December 7th through till December 11th.

Please visit http://www.edac.ca/default.html to learn about these programs.

Information pertaining to the Saskatoon program is located in the "Events" section.

For more information, contact Penny A. Gardiner, EDAC Executive Director, at

NOTICE: The "Programs" section of the NODN website has been updated to include information pertaining to the 2009 Agricultural Study, the Trade Northern Ontario program, and the recent Brownfield event. 

Please note, additional information with regards to the Agriculture Study is forthcoming and will be available soon.

11.06.09

CONTACT Newsletter is Back

After a hiatus of nearly four years, FedNor is reviving this information-sharing tool as a mean to communicate important and useful information related to the Community Futures Program, FedNor, and other economic development topics. CONTACT is intended specifically for Northern Ontario CFDC volunteers and staff.

To view the English version Click Here

To view the French version Click Here

11.03.09

NOTICE: The Kenora portion of the Brownfield Symposium events is postponed until further notice.  The Thunder Bay event is fully active and will proceed as planned on November 10, 2009

Common Voice Northwest is working towards determining a pan-Northwest response to the Draft Grow North Plan

Common Voice Northwest is seeking input from individual members of business and economic development communities.  Below you will find the associated documentation needed to review and complete the evaluation:

To view the "Growth Plan - Attracting Investment and Growth" document: Click Here

To view the evaluation chart: Click Here

To view the "Growth Plan - Regional Service Delivery" document: Click Here

To view the evaluation chart: Click Here

To view the "Growth Plan - Regional Economic Planning" document: Click Here

To view the evaluation chart: Click Here  

Completed forms can be faxed to CVNW @ 807-474-0881

11.02.09

OACFDC Annual Conference 2010: Request for Proposals

The Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations (OACFDC) is circulating a Request for Proposals for a Conference Planner to assist with some of the logistics of 2010 Conference to be held in Thunder Bay, Ontario from June 10th to 12th.

The Request for Proposals can be viewed HERE

10.26.09

Proposed Growth Plan For Northern Ontario

On October 23, 2009, the Government of Ontario released a Proposed Growth Plan for Northern Ontario and is seeking feedback.  The proposed Growth Plan brings together the building blocks needed to prepare the region for shifts in the economy by growing Northern opportunities, strengthening its workforce, and enhancing northerners’ quality of life. The 25-year Plan proposes policies, programs and actions, and calls on governments and their northern partners to realize a shared vision.

To view the Proposed Growth Plan Click Here

To view the Growth Plan News Release Click Here

To view the Growth Plan Backgrounder Click Here

To view the Backgrounder on Northern Testimonials Click Here

Those interested in giving their feedback on the Proposed Growth Plan via e-mail, letter, phone, or Public Meeting can click HERE

The October Issue of "Workforce Focus" by the North Superior Workforce Planning Board is now available.

Click HERE to view the issue.

10.23.09

The City Of Dryden In Partnership With The Dryden Development Corporation Is Seeking A Event Planner/Developer Internship

The position is for a 1-year contract that will commence November 2009.

Those interested in the position are asked to submit an application by 4:00pm on November 2, 2009.

To view full details about this position Click Here

10.21.09

Statistics Canada Seeking Community Based Organizations

As part of the Census dissemination strategy, Statistics Canada initiated the Community Outreach Program (COP) to assist municipal and community partners in accessing and analyzing census data.  The program seeks to increase and improve the use of census data at the community level.  The objective is to support community-based organizations in their efforts in training and building capacity within their organizations and regions.  Stats Can plans to meet these objectives by:

•   Increasing the ease of access to census data
•   Building relationships with local partners
•   Creating learning opportunities

   

•   Encouraging the sharing of statistical expertise
•   Demonstrating how census data can be used to improve decision making

Stats Can is currently looking to identify community-based organizations in Northern Ontario who may be interesting in participating in a training session, free of charge, on how to access and use census data.  If you are interested, please reply to the email below with your contact info (i.e., name of organization, contact person, phone number).

10.20.09

Events Section Updated

The "Events" section has once again been updated to stay current with up and coming events occurring in and around the region.  These events are all very beneficial and cover a wide variety of areas.  Please take a moment to review the events occurring in the region.

NODN AGM A Big Success

NODN would like to take this moment to thank all those who attended, participated, and assisted in our AGM.  The event saw a variety of great presentations, was an excellent opportunity to network and was highlighted by the Past Presidents Panel during the evening dinner.

A summary of the event is under construction and information pertaining to the events' presentations, including the Agricultural Study, will be available soon. 

10.08.09

New Events Within The Region

Please take note of the "Events" section of this website as there will be a wide variety of informative events occurring around Northwestern Ontario.  Various seminars and presentations will cover topics including tourism, bio-energy, small business, retail, and other regional events.

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) is looking for an experienced Executive Director.

To view the position's main advertisement Click Here

To view information pertaining to position summary, qualifications, major tasks, conditions of employments, term, and compensation Click Here

Application, resume, and references deadline is 8:00pm on October 19, 2009.  Submission is to be done via email to

This information can additionally be viewed at www.noma.on.ca

The New Exporters to Border States (NEBS) programs is celebrating its 25th Anniversary

For twenty-five years, the New Exporters to Border States (NEBS) program has provided new and experienced exporters with information on doing business in the United States.  NEBS is ideally suited for anyone involved in export development to the U.S., whether working in a management, inside or outside sales, marketing or business development position. On October 27th, 2009, the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade will be hosting a 25^th Anniversary NEBS Celebration at the Toronto Congress Centre,

For full details Click Here

10.01.09 

The Lake of the Woods Business Incentive Corp. has an open position available for a Business Operations and Lending Assistant

The Corporation has recently been approved for additional funding for this position that will function as a means to provide enhanced technical and advisory services to existing and potential clients.

To view the full details about the position including requirements and contact information please Click Here

The deadline for submitting a cover letter and resume is October 12, 2009.

On October 20th, 2009, a seminar regarding retail sales entitled: "Re-Thinking Retail" will be taking place in Kenora at the Lakeside Inn

The seminar will feature guest speaker Kevin Graff, a top retail performance specialist who has spent 20 years working with retailers helping drive their revenue.

For those interested in attending you can view full information pertaining to this event HERE

FedNor is hosting a Northwestern Ontario Entrepreneurial Symposium on October 5, 2009.

The event will consist of panel discussions comprised of entrepeneurs in Northwestern Ontario and the topic of discussion will be the potential for economic growth within the region.

Full details along with an agenda can be viewed HERE

09.21.09

FedNor's International Business Center is hosting an informational session; "Global Opportunities and Canada's Export Services".

The event will be held at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay on October 7, 2009 at 9:00am.  The objective of this information session is to provide entrepreneurs and interested individuals with information about export opportunities in such areas as alternative energy, bio-medical and defense and aerospace, as well as information about services Canada provides in support of exports.  There is no admission fee to attend.  Light refreshments will be provided. 

Throughout the event, there will be three presentations with information pertaining to export financing, Export Development Canada, the Virtual Trade Commissioner (VTC) -  a tool designed to help entrepreneurs succeed globally, and opportunities for market diversification.  To view the full agenda for the event Click Here

This event follows the NODN AGM which will be held on October 6, and will be benefical to anyone part of the business community, as well as anyone interested in economic growth and expanding to markets outside the region.

09.16.09

The Chukuni Communities Development Corporation has recently acquired funding for an Assistant Loans Officer position.

The position will assist Chukuni in developing the local economy by assisting local entrepreneurs in the development of small businesses.

To view information pertaining to the description and requirements of the position along with the necessary contact information Click Here

The application deadline is October 9, 2009

09.11.09

The NOACC Fall Meeting is fast approaching and will be taking place on September 24, 25, 26, 2009.

Look under the "events" section to find updated information pertaining to the event including a detailed agenda for the three day meeting.

Service Canada, in conjunction with Community Futures Development Corporations, is organizing a series of Services for Business seminars in seven key communities that have been seriously affected by the economic downturn.

The objective of these seminars is to inform the business/employer community of the resources and support available to them to ensure continued success. This will benefit all businesses regardless of size from a two person operation to a large corporation.

One such event will be taking place in Terrace Bay on September 18, 2009

To view the poster for the Terrace Bay seminar Click Here

To view full information of the Terrace Bay seminar Click Here

09.03.09

NOMA Meeting Update

This is a reminder that the 27th annual Northwestern Ontario Regional Conference is taking place on September 30th and running till October 2nd.  Full details are available under the "events" section of the NODN website that include new updated information on accommodations as well as a complete event schedule. 

EcoSuperior Environmental Programs is requesting expressions of interest from consultants qualified to carry out a multi-faceted study of sustainable economic development opportunities in Thunder Bay.

To view the full details about this request Click Here

The submission deadline is September 11, 2009.

08.28.09

The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry has released a discussion paper about how Ontario should modernize forest tenure and pricing.

The public will play a key role in assisting the Ontario forest industry on the road to balanced economic success and sustainable practices.  This will be accomplished through online public comments and a series of consultations scheduled for next month.

A news release by MNDMF contains the location and date of each upcoming consultation, a link to the discussion paper itself, and additional links to more information pertaining to Ontario's tenure initiatives.

To view the document Click Here

08.26.09

Multi-Million Dollar Government of Canada Investment Announced

On August 26th 2009, Mr. Greg Rickford, member of parliament for Kenora, on behalf of the honourable Tony Clement, minister of industry and FedNor, announced a $31.4 million dollar investment to be utilized through the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF).  Through the CAF, the Government of Canada will support a total of 55 projects in communities across northern Ontario that are struggling as a result of the recent global economic downturn.  The Thunder Bay region in particular will see 11 regional initiatives funded by the CAF totaling $3.16 million.

To view the full news release Click Here

To view the backgrounder on the 11 Thunder Bay initiatives Click Here

To view the full news release in French Click Here

To view the backgrounder in French Click Here

NODN Essar Steel Tour Update

The Northwestern Ontario Development Network (NODN) is finalizing plans for Northwestern Ontario Business and subsequent NODN Member representatives, to attend a procurement inquisition tour of Essar Steel in Sault Ste Marie.  This tour is scheduled for October 29-30, 2009.  Please contact our NODN office with interested parties information and confirmation for the arranged tour of the developing Essar Steel Plant in Sault Ste. Marie by Friday September 11, 2009.

To view the full NODN Essar Steel Tour document Click Here

08.14.09

The North Superior Training Board has recently completed the first draft of its Integrated Local Labour Market Plan entitled: “Building a Superior Workforce: 2009-2012 Labour Marker Action Plan”.  The plan will be launched August 27th, 2009 and will encompass key priorities that will prove to be a vital component in assisting local labour markets address the issues that are most relevant to the Thunder Bay District.

In addition, NSTB would like to announce the launch of its new look and name.  The new name for the organization will be the North Superior Workforce Planning Board.  The change will more accurately reflect the scope of work the Local Board undertakes on behalf of the community and clients it serves.

To view the full news release on the action plan, click HERE

To view the full news release on the official name change, click HERE

08.24.09 

Lakehead University Celebrates 2009

On September 16, 2009, Lakehead University and various community partners and guests will be hosting this annual event.  The event fundraises in order to provide proceeds to Lakehead University students with bursaries and scholarships.

For more information about this fundraiser look under "Events". 

The Northwestern Ontario Innovation Center is calling out to eligible applicants for their Satellite Internet for Remote Areas Program (SIRA)

The Satellite Internet for Remote Areas Program (SIRA), which the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre is administering, was introduced to help Northern Ontario's business community secure cost-effective high-speed internet access.

Eligible applicants may receive up to 75% of the supported costs of equipment and installation of 2-way high-speed internet service, to a maximum of $1,000. Supported costs include the satellite dish and installation fees. The service provider chosen must be an authorized reseller. Travel costs incurred by the vendor to install the equipment may also be considered eligible if the business is located more than 50 km from the nearest satellite equipment provider. 

The Satellite Internet for Remote Area Program ends September 30, 2009.  Additionally, there is funding left for approximately 30 applicants and will be processed on a first come first serve basis.

To view the application form along with associated contact information Click Here

The Northern Ontario Value Added Initiative (NOVA) is hosting a seminar about creating value-added wood products in Northern Ontario.

The event is designed to inform interested parties about taking the appropriate steps to creating an enterprise in this area.

To view the press release Click Here

To view the seminar advertisement Click Here

For more information, please contact Carole Blaquiere at: carole.blaquiere@fpinnovations.ca or 705-541-5787.

08.11.09

Fednor Investment Strengthens Red Lake

The honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, on behalf of the honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and FedNor announced on August 5th, 2009 that an investment of more than $2.6 million through FedNor will go towards supporting economic development and small business in Red Lake.  The funding will go towards developing Nungessar Road Industrial Park located near the Red Lake Airport.

To view the full news release, please follow the link below to the FedNor Website:

http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/fednor-fednor.nsf/eng/fn03119.html

The National Aboriginal Forestry Association (NAFA), with the support of Natural Resources Canada - Canadian Forest Service is developing a "National Directory of Aboriginal Businesses in the Forest Sector."

To view the full press release, please follow the link below:

NAFA Press Release

The honourable Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry has provided an update on the development of the Northern Ontario Growth Plan.

To view the full details Click Here

The NOACC will be hosting its Fall meeting on September 24th, 25th, and 26th 2009.  The event will take place in Fort Frances.

Look under "Events" to view full information pertaining to the meeting, registration, and accommodations. 

The Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) and the Economic Development Association of British Columbia (EDABC) are calling for papers and presentations on: "Rural Communities and Economic Development Practices".

The purpose of such submissions is to strengthen the overall knowledge base for developing economies in rural communities.

Papers are particularly solicited from rural communities, but anyone with relevant experience and credentials in the topic area is invited to submit their work.

To view the full details about this request along with all the associated information: Click Here

To view the Submission Template: Click Here

07.23.09

NODN would like to congratulate Harold Wilson on becoming the new president and CEO of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce.  Harold's business background along with his economic development experience will be a valuable asset for the business community.

To view the official media release from the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce: Click Here

To view Harold Wilson's background: Click Here

Canada and Ontario Have Launched A New Infrastructure Stimulus Fund Non-For-Profit Intake

The application process and general guidelines will be similar to the recent ISF intake for municipalities. The ISF is one of the stimulus funding programs that the federal government announced in their 2009 Budget and that Ontario has committed to matching. The intake process will be administered jointly between Ontario and Infrastructure Canada.  

To view the full details about this announcement please visit: www.creatingjobs.gc.ca 

The location of this information is posted under the "Featured News" section.

Within the website, you will find detailed information pertaining to the program, how it works, who is eligible, and the types of funding categories available.  You will additionally be able to access a detailed program guide as well as an online application form.

This fund is a fantastic opportunity for any non-for-profit organization and we highly recommend looking into it.

The application deadline for this program is August 18, 2009

The Confederation College Foundation is hosting its 14th Annual Community Partners Evening.

To view full event details, look under "Events" to view the advertisement.

A new Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development has been released.  The new framework builds on recent federal actions to improve participation of First Nations, Inuit, Metis people in the Canadian economy.

To view the Backgrounder for the Federal Framework Click Here

To view the full Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development Click Here

To view the speaking notes for The Honourable Chuck Strahl, PC, MP Click Here

To view the June 29th news release communique Click Here

07.23.09

The Township of Schreiber is excited and pleased to announce that a partnership has been reached between the Township and Dongara to negotiate the terms of an agreement to site a "waste pelletizing" plant in Schreiber. Dongara is a private company that manufactures an engineered fuel pellet, trademarked as "Enerpax+" from municipal solid waste (MSW).

To view the full press release Click Here

The OACFDC would like to announce three new employment opportunities.

To view all the details Click Here

The Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce is hosting its fall meeting September 24, 25, 26, 2009.  The event will be hosted by the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce.

Keep tuned in to www.noacc.ca for developing details.

07.17.09

NODN will be hosting its Annual General Meeting this upcoming October

View "Events" for more details

Furthermore on October 5^th, their will be an Entrepreneurial panel discussion hosted by FedNor. More information to follow in August.  Registration Packages to be sent at the beginning of August for all interested parties.  

For more information, please contact Dan Brenzavich, NODN Executive Director

Phone: 807-768-6728

E-Mail:

The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT), the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry (MNDMF) and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service invite you to an online seminar on business opportunities within the Mining Equipment, Services sector in China.

For more information and details, view "Events"

The Co-operative Development Initiative (CDI) is advertising for its Innovative Co-operative Projects

To view the guide for applicants Click Here

To view the application form Click Here 

The North America Super Corridor Coalition (NASCO) has just released its 2009 Conference Report 

To view the report Click Here

NOMA Meeting Set For Fall

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association will be hosting the 27th Annual Northwestern Ontario Regional Conference:

"Reinventing the North: Seizing the Challenge"

For more information and details, view "Events" 

07.16.09

07.08.09

Northern Ontario Entrepreneur program:
-click for Announcement
-click for guidelines

---

New NODN Community Development Officer: Mark Waciakowksi

My name is Mark Waciakowski and I am the new Development Officer for the Northwestern Ontario Development Network. I have lived in Thunder Bay my whole life and enjoy the city and surrounding area very much along with my unwavering dedication to the Toronto Maple Leafs. I am a recent graduate of the International Business & Trade program from Confederation College and additionally have the Business Administration degree from Lakehead University. Through the college program, I did a two month work placement at the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines and it was my time there that led me to the position I now have at NODN. I am very excited to be part of the team here at NODN and look forward to communicating with you and conveying the various benefits of our organization.

Northern Ontario Entrepreneur program:
-click for Announcement
-click for guidelines

---

New NODN Community Development Officer: Mark Waciakowksi

My name is Mark Waciakowski and I am the new Development Officer for the Northwestern Ontario Development Network. I have lived in Thunder Bay my whole life and enjoy the city and surrounding area very much along with my unwavering dedication to the Toronto Maple Leafs. I am a recent graduate of the International Business & Trade program from Confederation College and additionally have the Business Administration degree from Lakehead University. Through the college program, I did a two month work placement at the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines and it was my time there that led me to the position I now have at NODN. I am very excited to be part of the team here at NODN and look forward to communicating with you and conveying the various benefits of our organization.