The Ontario government is investing nearly $8 million to support film and television production in North Bay, a move aimed at strengthening Northern Ontario’s screen-based industries, creating jobs and positioning the region as a competitive filming destination.
The funding, delivered through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), will support 10 film and television projects currently in production or development in the city and surrounding area. Provincial officials say the investment aligns with Ontario’s broader economic strategy to protect jobs, attract new opportunities and support regional industries amid global market pressures.
“Our government is delivering on our commitment to protect Ontario by investing in projects that keep people working, strengthen northern communities and attract new economic opportunities to the North,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This funding will spark new partnerships, boost local talent and create valuable opportunities in communities across the region as we continue to position the North as a prime destination for film and TV series producers.”
Since 2018, the NOHFC has invested nearly $84 million in 105 film and television projects in the Nipissing area, helping Northern Ontario compete in an increasingly global production market. The province says those investments have supported the growth of local production companies, attracted outside productions and contributed to sustained employment across the sector.
The latest round of funding totals approximately $7.95 million and spans a mix of television series, feature films, animated productions and made-for-television movies. Projects receiving the largest allocations include $2 million each for the fourth season of the medical drama SkyMed and the third season of When Hope Calls. Additional projects range from holiday-themed television movies to an animated action-comedy series and a historical feature film set in Northern Ontario.
Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, said the investment demonstrates the effectiveness of the NOHFC’s Film and Television Stream in driving local economic activity. “NOHFC’s Film and Television Stream is designed to increase production in Northern Ontario to create industry jobs and support the local economy,” he said. “Today’s $7.95 million investment is achieving that goal, while also highlighting North Bay as a premier filming destination where these projects showcase local geography, talent and filming infrastructure.”
Industry representatives say the funding plays a critical role in sustaining production in a challenging financing environment. Producers associated with SkyMed noted that the series’ fourth season generated approximately $13 million in Northern Ontario spending, including expenditures on labour, training, accommodations and location rentals. They also credited the funding with helping establish North Bay as a viable location for large-scale television production.
Other producers echoed the economic impact of film and television spending across the region, citing benefits for hotels, restaurants, rental companies and small businesses, as well as long-term opportunities for local crews and creatives. Several said the NOHFC’s support allows companies to fill financing gaps, remain competitive internationally and continue developing northern talent.
In addition to its cultural and economic impact, the province says the investment supports broader policy objectives, including mitigating the effects of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and strengthening Northern Ontario’s long-term economic resilience. The renewed focus on strategic investments is part of a larger commitment that includes an additional $30 million for the NOHFC over three years, bringing the agency’s annual budget to $110 million.
The Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, said investments in screen-based industries help amplify Northern Ontario’s creative voices while contributing to provincial growth. He noted that film and television projects not only create jobs but also promote tourism by showcasing unique northern locations to global audiences.
According to the province, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in over 8,000 projects across Northern Ontario since June 2018, leveraging more than $3 billion in additional investment and helping create or sustain more than 12,500 jobs. Government officials say continued support for film and television production will ensure Northern Ontario remains a key contributor to Ontario’s economy, while fostering a sustainable and competitive creative industry rooted in the region.
