MP Terry Sheehan announces funding to Boost the Local Digital Economy

Supplied by Sault MP Terry Sheehan…
(Sault Ste. Marie, ON) Nearly $1 million in Government of Canada support will help Sault area businesses improve productivity, accelerate growth and create quality jobs for area residents.

Small and medium-sized businesses in Sault Ste. Marie will receive help to enhance their digital skills, expand their markets, and assist with product development activities thanks to two separate Government of Canada contributions of $490,000.

The funding was announced today by Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.

The Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC) will use a FedNor investment of $490,000 to deliver the Broadband E-business and Marketing program to help eligible businesses adopt e-business applications to reduce operating costs and increase their reach into new markets. A second investment of $490,000 will enable the SSMIC to deliver the Innovation Accelerator Program to assist qualified high-tech enterprises with activities such as market research, e-commerce and promotion, and lean production implementation.

This investment highlights the Government of Canada’s commitment to support innovation and enhance the competitiveness, management and trade capacity of SMEs in the region to create quality jobs and wealth for Canadians.

Quotes

“Today’s investments will provide innovative small and medium-sized enterprises in our region with the tools and skills they need to succeed going forward. The goal is to help these businesses overcome hurdles to growth and create good quality, resilient jobs.”
Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie

“We are excited about helping area businesses reach their full potential thanks to continuing support from FedNor and the Government of Canada. These programs are helping innovators and entrepreneurs in our region to take their businesses to the next level, generating increased profits and employment opportunities.”
Don MacLennan, Acting Executive Director, Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre.

“Innovation is a key driver for the Canadian economy and our government is committed to helping entrepreneurs sharpen their skills and enhance their operations to prepare them for an increasingly competitive global economy. We are proud to collaborate with organizations such as the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre to grow the economy and create jobs.”
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor

Quick Facts
” The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.
” Since November 1, 2015, nine projects in the Sault Ste. Marie region have received approval for a total of $3.9 million under FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program.

Associated links
” To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.gc.ca
” Follow us on Twitter @FedNor
” Follow the Minister on Twitter: @MinisterISED