FedNor is the Government of Canada's economic development agency for Northern Ontario, dedicated to fostering economic development, diversification, and job creation while promoting sustainable, self-reliant communities in the region. With a mission to grow regional economic development in a key region of the country, FedNor helps deliver this through the federal government's Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario.
First created as a branch of Industry Canada in 1987, FedNor was established as a standalone agency on August 12, 2021. FedNor has its main offices in Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, and Thunder Bay; as well as offices located in North Bay, Timmins, and Kenora.
As one of seven regional development agencies across the country, FedNor works with businesses and community partners by offering financial support, programs, and services that lead to job creation and economic growth in Northern Ontario.
FedNor actively promotes economic growth through four key programs:
- Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP)
- Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI)
- Community Futures Program (CF)
- Economic Development Initiative in Northern Ontario (EDI)
As well as targeted funding streams:
- Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative
- Regional Defence Investment Initiative
- Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative
- Regional Tariff Response Initiative
- Black Entrepreneurship Program
By identifying and actively supporting emerging economic opportunities, promoting innovation, and collaborating with our partners, FedNor ensures Northerners have full access to the wide slate of programs and services offered by the Government of Canada.
FedNor is your federal partner in Northern Ontario, actively working to cultivate an environment where communities thrive, businesses flourish, and individuals prosper.