NORTHERN ONTARIO,The Ontario government is investing more than $1.8 million in 11 businesses and tourism-related projects across northern Ontario, aiming to attract more visitors, improve recreational infrastructure and support economic growth in communities throughout the region.
The funding, delivered through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), will help tourism operators expand their services, upgrade facilities and develop attractions that contribute to local employment and business activity.
Ontario Tourism Investment Targets Business Growth and Regional Development
The investment was announced by George Pirie, Ontario’s Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, during the Northern Ontario Tourism Summit in Sault Ste. Marie.
The funding forms part of the provincial government’s broader economic development strategy, which focuses on strengthening northern industries, supporting businesses and expanding opportunities in rural and urban communities.
Tourism remains an important contributor to northern Ontario’s economy, supporting accommodation providers, restaurants, recreational operators and other businesses that depend on visitor spending.
“Our government is proud to support tourism opportunities for communities, businesses and workers across northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This NOHFC investment will help develop and improve attractions that draw visitors, increase economic activity and showcase the region’s unique qualities. By supporting tourism growth, we are helping to build a prosperous future for northern Ontario.”
The government said the funding will support projects designed to improve visitor experiences while helping businesses strengthen their long-term operations.
Northern Ontario Tourism Projects Receive Provincial Funding
The province identified several projects benefiting from the latest funding package, including improvements to winter recreation facilities, restoration of a community landmark and expansion of wilderness accommodation.
Tri-Town Ski Village Receives $208,004 for Facility Improvements
Tri-Town Ski Village, located in North Cobalt in the Temiskaming Shores region, will receive $208,004 to upgrade its operations.
The funding will support the installation of an air conditioning unit and the purchase of equipment, including a refurbished snow groomer.
The ski hill offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
The equipment investment is expected to strengthen the facility’s ability to maintain its winter recreation services and support tourism activity in the surrounding area.
Greenstone Secures $172,102 to Restore Beardmore Snowman
The Municipality of Greenstone will receive $172,102 to restore and preserve the Beardmore Snowman, a recognizable landmark in the community.
The project includes structural repairs, repainting and additional improvements intended to extend the attraction’s useful life.
Provincial officials said preserving the landmark will help maintain its appeal to visitors while supporting community pride and nearby businesses.
Temagami Outpost Receives $31,000 for Year-Round Tourism Expansion
Temagami Outpost, an off-grid lodge and outfitter offering cabin rentals, outdoor recreation and guided experiences, will receive $31,000.
The funding will support construction of a new guest cabin and improvements to existing facilities and infrastructure.
The expansion is intended to help the business operate as a year-round tourism destination, potentially attracting visitors beyond traditional peak travel seasons.
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Budget Reaches $110 Million
The tourism investment comes as Ontario increases its focus on economic development through the NOHFC, which now has an annual budget of $110 million.
The province is prioritizing investments intended to protect northern industries and employment, address economic pressures associated with U.S. tariffs and improve regional competitiveness.
The corporation provides financial assistance to public and private sector projects, including initiatives involving tourism, infrastructure and business development.
According to provincial figures, the NOHFC has approved more than $1.1 billion in funding for 9,011 projects across northern Ontario since June 2018.
Those commitments have leveraged more than $3.4 billion in additional investment and contributed to the creation or maintenance of more than 13,900 jobs.
The government said its funding approach is intended to benefit communities of different sizes, including rural municipalities, urban centres and Indigenous communities.
Tourism Infrastructure Seen as a Driver of Long-Term Economic Growth
The latest funding reflects Ontario’s strategy of using tourism infrastructure and business expansion to encourage visitor spending and strengthen regional economies.
By supporting recreational facilities, established attractions and accommodation operators, the province aims to improve northern Ontario’s tourism offerings and create additional opportunities for local businesses.
The $1.8-million investment is expected to help participating operators enhance their services while reinforcing tourism’s role in northern Ontario’s long-term economic development.
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