Ontario Invests $8 Million to Boost First Nations Economic Growth and Jobs

THUNDER BAY, ON — The Ontario government is investing $8 million over the next three years to support First Nations entrepreneurs, economic development officers, and community-led business initiatives through the Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association (OFNEDA).

The funding, announced at OFNEDA’s 14th Annual First Nations Economic Advancement Conference in Thunder Bay, will help deliver training, mentorship, and professional development programs that strengthen First Nations economies and create new job opportunities across the province.

Strengthening Indigenous Economic Partnerships

“Our ongoing partnership with OFNEDA reaffirms our government’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities that build capacity and knowledge sharing, while strengthening economic partnerships with First Nations communities across Ontario,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships.

“This investment provides OFNEDA with sustainable funding over the next three years to further advance economic development and boost entrepreneurship in First Nations communities,” Rickford added.

The announcement comes as part of Ontario’s broader plan to protect and grow the province’s economy by investing in Indigenous-led business initiatives and ensuring First Nations have equitable access to financial and training resources.

Today, at their 14th annual conference, we announced our ongoing commitment to @OFNEDA : more than $8 million over the next three years to support economic development officers and entrepreneurs. pic.twitter.com/7tBdqHJA5V

— Greg Rickford (@GregRickford) September 16, 2025

Supporting Community Growth and Entrepreneurship

“On behalf of our organization, I want to acknowledge and thank the provincial government for their continued support,” said Peggy Domingue, Executive Director of OFNEDA. “This funding strengthens our First Nation communities by providing the resources needed to advance economic sustainability. With this investment, we are building a stronger foundation for long-term growth and prosperity for our people.”

Through the funding, OFNEDA will continue providing accredited training opportunities, business development workshops, and conferences for Economic Development Officers and Indigenous entrepreneurs. These programs aim to improve access to procurement, marketing, and strategic planning skills across more than 79 First Nations communities in Ontario.

Expanding Indigenous Access to Capital and Education

The investment builds on several measures outlined in the 2025 Ontario Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario, including:

• An increase of $4 million annually for Indigenous Financial Institutions to deliver low-interest loans and grants.

• Expansion of the Indigenous Opportunities Financing Program from $1 billion to $3 billion, with a broader scope to include equity participation in resource projects.

• A $10 million scholarship fund over three years for First Nations students pursuing careers in resource development.

Ontario says these initiatives will enhance Indigenous participation across every part of the province’s supply chain — from training and financing to ownership and leadership in key industries.

About OFNEDA

Founded in 2009, the Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association helps Indigenous communities and businesses enhance economic self-sufficiency through professional development, mentorship, and collaboration. The organization currently supports 138 members across Ontario, representing Economic Development Officers, entrepreneurs, corporations, and community organizations.

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