USA – The Ontario government has announced over USD 633,000 in funding to support sustainable farming initiatives and community development projects in Dryden.
This funding, provided through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), will enhance agricultural innovation and improve key community infrastructure in Northwestern Ontario.
“Our investments in AgriTech North and the City of Dryden are part of a broader effort to support resilient Northern communities,” said Greg Rickford, MPP for Kenora–Rainy River and Minister of Northern Development.
“We are working closely with local businesses and municipalities to ensure the Northwest benefits from sustainable food solutions and upgraded infrastructure.”
Of the three projects receiving funding, AgriTech North is a major beneficiary. The company, dedicated to advancing agricultural technologies in Northern Ontario, will receive USD 250,000 to develop an innovative multi-layer greenhouse envelope.
This greenhouse design will optimize plant growth conditions, particularly benefiting rural and remote communities by increasing access to fresh, nutrient-dense food crops.
An additional USD 250,000 will be used to develop a non-refrigerant-based thermal system for indoor farming facilities.
This system will offer a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for year-round food production, enhancing the sustainability of greenhouse farming in the region.
The City of Dryden will also receive USD 133,153 to replace the roof and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system at the Dryden public library.
These upgrades will improve the efficiency and longevity of the building, ensuring the library remains a vital community asset.
The NOHFC’s support of these projects aligns with its mission to foster economic growth, job creation, and workforce development throughout Northern Ontario.
Since June 2018, the organization has invested more than USD 835 million in 6,713 projects across the region, creating or sustaining over 10,380 jobs.
“Thanks to NOHFC’s funding, AgriTech North can pursue technologies that have the potential to bring year-round, energy-independent growing to rural and remote areas,” said Benjamin Feagin Jr., CEO of AgriTech North. “We’re excited to work with NOHFC in advancing these innovations to combat food insecurity.”
Roger Nesbitt, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Dryden, expressed gratitude for the government’s support. “The funding for the library’s rehabilitation work will have a big impact on our community. We’re thankful to Minister Rickford and the NOHFC team for their continued support of our projects.”
The Ontario government has streamlined its NOHFC programs to ensure more projects can benefit rural northern communities. The revamped programs also emphasize creating more opportunities for Indigenous people and addressing the skilled labor shortage in the North.
Through strategic investments like those in Dryden, the NOHFC is not only boosting agricultural innovation but also helping build stronger, more resilient communities across Northern Ontario.
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