Ontario is investing more than $1.1 million in five Indigenous-led forestry projects aimed at expanding the use of forest biomass, improving energy security and supporting economic development across northern communities.
The provincial government said the projects have the long-term potential to create more than 200 jobs while generating additional demand for mill by-products and underused wood. The funding is being delivered through the Indigenous Bioeconomy Partnerships stream of Ontario’s Forest Biomass Program.
Five Indigenous-Led Projects Receive Provincial Funding
The investments are expected to support projects that could eventually create annual demand for more than 100,000 tonnes of forest biomass. The material includes mill by-products and other wood resources that may otherwise be underused.
“Indigenous communities and businesses have a vital role in Ontario’s forest sector and the economic, social and environmental benefits it provides,” said Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products. “Guided by our Roadmap to Protecting Ontario’s Forest Sector, we’re investing in Indigenous-led opportunities that will help strengthen communities and drive growth and job creation across the sector.”
Constance Lake First Nation will receive $250,000 to develop plans for an adaptable energy system designed to convert forest biomass into green biofuel.
Apitipi Anicinapek Nation is receiving $250,000 to examine forestry opportunities while supporting workforce development through skills assessments and training workshops.
Another $250,000 will go to Webequie First Nation for planning and capacity-building related to a proposed community-operated 25-megawatt electricity facility powered by forest biomass.
Wanagekong Biiwega’iganan Clean Energy Corporation will receive $250,000 to assess biomass supplies, complete permitting work and establish partnerships for a planned bio-refinery.
Kasabonika Lake First Nation is receiving $158,750 to plan a sustainable wood-energy and sawmill program intended to reduce reliance on diesel and strengthen local energy security.
Ontario Expands Indigenous Bioeconomy Investments
Since the Forest Biomass Program launched in 2023, Ontario has invested nearly $5 million in 22 projects through its Indigenous Bioeconomy Partnerships funding stream.
“First Nations continue to lead the way in finding innovative uses for sustainable forest resources while creating jobs, supporting economic growth and strengthening communities,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “Leveraging the Indigenous Bioeconomy Partnerships stream of the Forest Biomass Program, we’re proud to invest in five Indigenous-led forestry projects that reflect local priorities and Indigenous leadership. Together, we are transforming forest biomass into new opportunities and lasting prosperity for future generations.”
The latest funding forms part of the province’s broader strategy to expand Indigenous participation in forestry while finding new commercial and energy applications for biomass.
Associate Minister Holland announced the investments at the Lake Nipigon Forest Management Incorporated biohub. Ontario previously provided $250,000 toward development of the Indigenous-led facility, which is designed to centralize wood supply, as well as $200,000 toward a biomass-powered clean energy facility.
Forest Biomass Program Targets Investment and Job Growth
Across the wider Forest Biomass Program, Ontario has committed more than $87 million to 79 projects. According to the province, those investments have helped secure nearly $280 million in additional external funding and create more than 115 jobs.
Since 2018, Ontario has also shared more than $178 million in forest resource revenues with 42 First Nations and two Métis organizations.
The province is developing additional guidance to help Indigenous communities and businesses establish forest biomass projects as part of its Forest Biomass Action Plan.
“The Forest Biomass Program provides the spark to launch new projects and modernize local forestry. By turning wood that would otherwise decay or burn into value-added renewable wood derived products for domestic and international markets, we can reduce waste, make fuller use of our forest resources and build a more stable, sustainable forestry economy.”
- Scot Rubin, General Manager, Lake Nipigon Forest Management Inc.
Forestry Industry Backs Indigenous Bioeconomy Projects
The Ontario Forest Industries Association also welcomed the investment, pointing to the potential benefits for northern energy security and employment.
“The OFIA strongly supports the province’s $1.1 million investment in Indigenous-led bioeconomy projects through the Forest Biomass Program. These investments will not only advance clean energy and energy security for northern communities, but also support sustainable economic growth, create skilled jobs, and reinforce Ontario’s leadership in the forest bioeconomy.”
- Ian Dunn, R.P.F., President & CEO, Ontario Forest Industries Association
The investments are part of Ontario’s 10-year forestry roadmap, which focuses on adapting the sector, attracting investment, expanding markets and supporting new technologies. The province says greater use of renewable forest biomass could provide additional economic opportunities while strengthening the long-term competitiveness of Ontario’s forestry industry.