FedNor Investments To Strengthen Thunder Bay Region

INNOVATION
$266,309

Lakehead University
Lakehead University will use $266,309 in FedNor funding to establish a research lab to support the growing industry of light emitting diodes (LEDs) used in the manufacturing of semiconductor devices. Initially, the lab will be used to test a patented process for a private Canadian firm under a signed research agreement. Subsequently, Lakehead University will use its newly acquired capacity to pursue other research partnerships and support its PhD program in Material Sciences.

COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
$265,598

Northwestern Ontario Development Network
FedNor funding of $265,598 will allow the Northwestern Ontario Development Network to continue to serve as the regional coordinator of economic development efforts, networking, and training for its membership throughout Northwestern Ontario.

SMALL BUSINESS
$250,000

Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund
Based in Thunder Bay, this Community Futures Development Corporation will use $250,000 in FedNor funding to provide small and medium-sized businesses with repayable loans, loan guarantees, and equity investments. Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund serves 33 First Nation communities in Northwestern Ontario.

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
$167,610

Confederation College of Applied Arts and Technology
A FedNor investment of $167,610 will assist Confederation College in its efforts to establish a regional geospatial applications and information network. Once complete, the network will help people and businesses use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related technologies to better manage assets, infrastructure, natural resources, as well as to assist with land use planning and economic development, particularly among First Nations.

YOUTH INITIATIVES
$165,000

Six recent graduates will gain valuable on-the-job experience through FedNor’s Youth Internship Program (YIP), helping the successful candidates make the transition from the campus to the workplace. The interns’ responsibilities will range from marketing and promotional work to research and coordinating activities. The host organizations receiving FedNor YIP funding of up to $27,500 for each intern, include:

  • George Jeffrey Children’s Foundation
  • City of Thunder Bay
  • Thunder Bay Community Foundation
  • Centre for Regenerative Medicine (two interns)
  • Lakehead University