Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation’s new economic development corporation, Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe (GMS) is now well-placed to support the future of the community after a major funding announcement.
A press conference was recently held at the GMS satellite location in downtown Sudbury. At the event, Atikameksheng Gimaa Craig Nootchtai said the FedNor investment of $288,000 “really is the start of the growth of our newly formed economic development corporation.”
“FedNor’s support will help us build prosperity for our Nation,” said Nootchtai.
“This investment directly supports the ongoing planning and growth of our economic development corporation and will help make it possible for us to work with businesses and other partners in developing our local economy.”
The funding will support GMS by enabling the creation of a two-year management position within the organization.
“In addition to supporting the creation of one new job, this investment will foster business expansion, new partnerships, and the development of a business park,” said FedNor in a news release Friday.
“This project reflects economic reconciliation in action and will position AAFN to better respond to opportunities and challenges faced by the community while supporting self-determined economic development.”
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Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for FedNor said this investment in innovation will create economic growth and opportunities for families in AAFN.
“It is projects like this one that help provide everyone with a fair chance at success and move us forward on the path to economic reconciliation,” she said.
Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré echoed Hajdu's comments saying investments like these represent opportunities for growth in the region.
“Our corner of northern Ontario contains a great combination of hard-working Canadians and potential to attract new businesses, new developments and to create new jobs,” he said.
“These FedNor funds are going to help turn opportunities in Nickel Belt into successes and will help to continue building a strong local economy.”
Sudbury MP Viviane Lapointe said the Sudbury area has benefitted from a history of diverse economic drivers and investments like the $288,000 in funding announced position the region to continue building on that history.
“This support for Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation will help build on local knowledge, strengthening a regional economy that works for everyone,” she said.
