The Government of Canada is strengthening workforce development in Northeastern Ontario with a significant investment of $1,125,000. Through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, this funding will support the North Bay and Area Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP), helping businesses fill employment gaps and attract skilled foreign workers to the region.
Boosting Economic Growth in North Bay and Surrounding Areas
Announced by Anthony Rota, Member of Parliament for Nipissing—Timiskaming, on behalf of Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, this initiative is designed to benefit over 35 communities, 840 businesses, and 1,280 jobs across Northern Ontario.
By supporting outreach, administration, communications, and marketing efforts, the funding will assist in identifying and designating businesses and connecting them with skilled immigrants who wish to settle and work in the area.
Building on the Success of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
The new Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) builds on the success of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), which the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce managed from 2020 to August 2024. The RNIP helped recruit 703 skilled workers, with 96.7% of respondents still residing in North Bay & Area.
The RCIP aims to continue this momentum, ensuring that local businesses have the workforce they need to grow and thrive while providing newcomers with opportunities to build their future in Canada.
Read more: A New Opportunity for Immigrants in Rural Canada
Key Benefits of the FedNor Investment
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- Supports Economic Growth – Helps rural communities attract skilled talent and fill employment gaps.
- Strengthens Local Businesses – Ensures businesses in Nipissing, Parry Sound, and Latchford have access to a reliable workforce.
- Enhances Workforce Development – Encourages skilled workers to settle permanently in Northern Ontario.
- Improves Quality of Life – Provides an alternative to big cities for newcomers who prefer a rural and northern lifestyle.
What Leaders Are Saying
Patty Hajdu, Minister Responsible for FedNor:
“Our Government is focused on ensuring Northern Ontario businesses have the tools they need to grow. By attracting new talent from around the world and creating high-quality jobs, we are building stronger, more resilient communities across Northern Ontario.”
Anthony Rota, MP for Nipissing—Timiskaming:
“This $1.1M investment reinforces our commitment to recruiting and retaining top talent to support businesses and strengthen rural communities in Northern Ontario.”
Donna Backer, President & CEO, North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce:
“The Rural Community Immigration Pilot will help attract and retain skilled newcomers while supporting local businesses in meeting workforce demands. This program enhances the quality of life in rural and northern communities.”
Final Thoughts
The Government of Canada’s investment in workforce development through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program is a major boost for Northeastern Ontario’s economy. By helping rural communities attract and retain skilled workers, this initiative ensures a stronger, more diverse workforce that supports local businesses and economic growth.
