Canada Allocates $1.7 Million to Northern Ontario Tourism Projects

The Government of Canada has announced a new initiative aimed at bolstering outdoor tourism in Northern Ontario. Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, disclosed the allocation of $1,720,064 to support ten outdoor tourism projects. This announcement was made on February 6, 2025, in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

The funding is designated for various projects, including the enhancement of snowmobile and multi-use trail systems, as well as recruiting professionals vital to the tourism sector. Additional projects involve strategic planning, conducting studies, and upgrading infrastructure. The financial support derives from the Tourism Growth Program (TGP) and the Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), according to official government sources.

Minister Patty Hajdu emphasized the importance of tourism investment for both local showcasing and economic benefits. Soraya Martinez Ferrada, involved in the announcement, highlighted the potential for Northern Ontario to attract visitors with its natural landscapes, as stated in the release.

Local reactions, such as that of Doug Lawrance, Mayor of Sioux Lookout, pointed to the potential opportunities for community growth. These perspectives reflect the varied local support and interest in the impact of the government’s tourism investments.