Community Futures Development Corporations in the Rainy River District are getting a boost from the federal government.
The Atikokan EDC is getting $1.5 million for ongoing operations, while the Rainy River FDC receives half a million dollars.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River Marcus Powlowski says the funding for Rainy River is top-up support.
“They on their own at the beginning of COVID stepped up to help businesses who were financially in trouble and therefore spent more of their money than they would otherwise have to,” says Powlowski.
Rainy River’s Board Chair Gord Armstrong says the money received will go back to supporting more businesses.
“This fund allows us to support area businesses in their efforts to grow, expand in the Rainy River District,” says Armstrong.
The Atikokan Economic Development Corporation will use its money in similar ways to support businesses in its area.
Atikokan’s Chair Jim Turner says the agency is vital to the local economy.
“Businesses here sometimes have no other option and having the AEDC present and having funds available to help them start up or help them expand through tough times is crucial,” says Turner.
The Atikokan EDC also serves the village of Upsala, and the First Nations of Seine River, Lac la Croix and Lac des Mille Lacs.
Powlowski says combined, the funding will help support over 130 businesses and almost 200 jobs.
