Provincial funding will help local companies increase revenue, improve operations and create good jobs
The Ontario government is investing $845,123 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help three local companies enhance their operations in Parry Sound and Muskoka and create 20 new manufacturing jobs. These investments deliver on the government’s plan to protect Ontario by bolstering the province’s domestic manufacturing supply chain and building a stronger, more competitive and self-reliant economy in the face of U.S. tariffs.
“Expanding manufacturing and adding jobs is how we grow our communities,” said MPP Graydon Smith. “These projects are key to continuing to add good-paying, highly skilled positions across our region, and I’m glad to see the support they are getting from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. It takes a lot to be able to run and expand a business, so it’s great to see our government supporting these companies and the many others in Parry Sound-Muskoka.”
Today’s announcement highlights the NOHFC’s support of the following local projects:
- Kropf Industrial has received $400,000 to construct a new building with 14,400 square feet of space to house a decking shop for finishing its floating dock systems, as well as an equipment repair shop, and to purchase new manufacturing and service equipment. The project will create 10 full-time positions, increase Kropf Industrial Inc.’s production capacity and open additional revenue streams through service and repair work.
- Tooketree Consulting Limited has received $400,000 to add 2,000 square feet to its existing facility of 11,000 square feet. The extra space will allow the installation of a bridge crane, automated insulation equipment, advanced production technology and equipment for window installation and panel movement. The project will also involve investments in computer hardware and software, training and marketing. This investment will create nine new jobs in the region.
- Selkirk Canada Ltd. has received $45,123 to replace the existing spray gun system, which is obsolete, inefficient and increasingly difficult to maintain due to the unavailability of replacement parts. The new equipment is expected to modernize the painting operation, resulting in improved efficiency and quality, as well as reduced waste. It will also create an additional full-time position.
This funding is part of a larger $3.4 million investment the Ontario government announced to support 12 projects at manufacturing companies across the North, helping to create approximately 80 jobs.
“Northern Ontario’s manufacturing sector is robust, resilient and a vital part of the province’s economy,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “In the face of economic uncertainty, our government is taking action to protect manufacturing businesses and support the production of Ontario-made products. This funding will help businesses grow and bring great opportunities to the region, including new jobs.”
The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s increased investment, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.
