June 20, 2009

FENWICK, Ontario, June 20, 2008 — The Government of Canada is continuing to support the growth and success of communities and the small business sector in rural Southwestern Ontario through an investment in the Venture Niagara Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC).

A federal investment of $317,500 was announced today by the Honourable Robert Nicholson, Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and Dean Allison, Member of Parliament for Niagara West–Glanbrook, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor.  The funding will support the CFDC’s ongoing operations.

“The Government of Canada believes the Community Futures Program is a catalyst for economic development and growth,” said Minister Nicholson.  “Today’s announcement in support of the Venture Niagara CFDC illustrates our commitment to the people and businesses of the Niagara region.”

“This CFDC is a vital contributor to the prosperity of the small and medium-sized business sector in the Niagara region,” added Mr. Allison.  “This funding allows them to continue their important work and service the increasing needs of their clientele.”

As reaffirmed in Budget 2008, the Government of Canada is making investments in people, knowledge, modern infrastructure and a sound and efficient financial sector to provide the foundation for local people and companies to succeed locally, and in the global economy.

The Venture Niagara CFDC provides services to enhance local economic development and small business growth, including access to capital, business counselling, community-based projects, strategic community planning and socio-economic development.

“We appreciate the ongoing support from the Government of Canada through FedNor,” said Douglas Johnson, Chair of the Venture Niagara CFDC.  “It validates their faith in us and our efforts to increase economic opportunities and create jobs.”

The Venture Niagara CFDC is one of 61 Community Futures Development Corporations in rural and Northern Ontario funded by FedNor’s Community Futures Program.

To find out more about Ontario CFDCs, visit:  http://cfdc-ontario.ic.gc.ca

For more information, please contact:

Laryssa Waler
Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200

Mario Paluzzi
Communications Officer, FedNor
705-941-2064 or 1-877-333-6673