In a move to bolster local food security and agriculture, the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor), has announced an investment of $535,000 to support the expansion of Muskoka North Good Food Co-op. This initiative is set to improve the local food supply chain and create new job opportunities in the region, according to the press release.
The announcement was made Wednesday by the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, who emphasized the importance of the investment in ensuring access to fresh, locally sourced food for families in Northern Ontario.
“Today’s investment of $535,000 will support Northern Ontario’s agriculture industry and ensure that local families in Huntsville and Muskoka will have consistent access to safe, reliable, fresh and nutritious foods from local farmers and producers throughout the region,” Hajdu stated in the press release.
The funds, allocated through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), will enable the co-op to acquire essential equipment, including a second modular farm pod, a walk-in cooler, freezer, and the establishment of a micro-bakery. This expansion will double the co-op’s size, boost operational efficiency, and create five full-time jobs.
Located at 1 Crescent Rd, in Huntsville, Muskoka North Good Food Co-op has become a cornerstone of the local food system since its founding seven years ago. Functioning as a community-owned grocery store and food hub, it connects local farmers and producers with a growing base of consumers who value sustainable, ethical food practices. The co-op offers a grocery retail market, café, and commercial production kitchen, placing community benefit at the forefront of its mission.
Kelli Ebbs, the co-op’s manager, expressed excitement over the expansion, saying, “FedNor funding was pivotal in helping make this happen! At the heels of our Co-op’s 7th Anniversary, the grand opening of our newly expanded space will be a celebration of co-operative dedication, collaboration and regional food systems growth.”