THUNDER BAY, Ont. — The Ontario government is investing $8 million over the next three years to support First Nations entrepreneurs and communities through training, mentorship, and expanded business opportunities. The funding will flow to the Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association (OFNEDA), which represents economic development officers and Indigenous business leaders across the province.
The announcement was made September 16 by Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, during OFNEDA’s 14th annual First Nations Economic Advancement Conference in Thunder Bay.
Building Partnerships for Growth
“Our ongoing partnership with OFNEDA reaffirms our government’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities that build capacity and knowledge sharing, while strengthening economic partnerships with First Nations communities across Ontario,” Rickford said.
He emphasized that the new funding provides OFNEDA with “sustainable funding over the next three years to further advance economic development and boost entrepreneurship in First Nations communities.” Rickford also serves as Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships, a portfolio central to Indigenous participation in northern development projects.
OFNEDA’s Role
Founded in 2009, OFNEDA offers training, accredited programs, and networking opportunities for economic development officers and Indigenous entrepreneurs. The organization has grown to 138 members across 79 First Nations communities and 10 corporations, supported through four regional chapters. Its programs cover skills development, procurement readiness, proposal writing, marketing, and strategic planning, alongside annual conferences that bring together industry leaders, government officials, and Indigenous business professionals.
“On behalf of our organization, I want to acknowledge and thank the provincial government for their continued support,” said Peggy Domingue, Executive Director of OFNEDA. “This funding strengthens our First Nation communities by providing the resources needed to advance economic sustainability. It allows us to empower and support our economic development officers and entrepreneurs through capacity building, mentorship, networking and the sharing of best practices. With this investment, we are building a stronger foundation for long-term growth and prosperity for our people.”
Adam Pawis, OFNEDA Board Chair, joined Domingue and Rickford at the conference to highlight the importance of collaboration between government and Indigenous organizations.
Broader Economic Strategy
The $8 million investment is part of the 2025 Ontario Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario, which outlined new supports for Indigenous economic development. Alongside OFNEDA funding, the budget committed:
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An additional $4 million per year for Indigenous Financial Institutions to provide low-interest loans and grants to Indigenous-owned businesses, plus $1 million annually for e-commerce expansion.
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A tripling of the Indigenous Opportunities Financing Program — formerly the Aboriginal Loan Guarantee Program — from $1 billion to $3 billion, with an expanded scope.
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$10 million over three years for new scholarship opportunities for First Nations students pursuing careers in resource development.
The provincial government says these measures are designed to expand Indigenous participation across Ontario’s supply chain, from small businesses to large-scale resource partnerships.
Economic Impact and Reconciliation
OFNEDA has played a key role in advancing Indigenous economic initiatives since its founding. By supporting development officers and entrepreneurs with resources and expertise, the association helps Indigenous businesses engage more effectively in procurement, investment, and market growth.
The Ontario government’s funding, Domingue said, is critical for “building a stronger foundation for long-term growth.” For communities, the benefits go beyond business development to include greater economic independence, job creation, and opportunities for youth through mentorship and scholarships.
The investment also underscores Ontario’s effort to strengthen its economic reconciliation framework. By investing directly in Indigenous institutions and expanding financial pathways, the province aims to foster more equitable participation in development projects, particularly in northern Ontario.
Looking Ahead
With sustained provincial support, OFNEDA is expected to broaden its programming and strengthen its reach among First Nations communities. The funding is intended to provide stability for the organization’s training and networking activities, while also positioning Indigenous entrepreneurs to take advantage of new market opportunities.
As Ontario balances resource development and economic growth with reconciliation goals, the government’s investment in OFNEDA marks a significant step toward aligning policy with Indigenous-led economic strategies.
