September 4, 2008

COLLINGWOOD, Ontario, September 4, 2008 — The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the growth and prosperity of communities and small businesses in rural South Central Ontario through its investments in the local Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) known as the Centre for Business and Economic Development.

A federal contribution of $325,000 for the organization’s ongoing operations was announced today by the Honourable Helena Guergis, Member of Parliament for Simcoe–Grey, David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin–Caledon, and Larry Miller, Member of Parliament for Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor.

“This Government of Canada investment of $325,000 recognizes the importance of the Centre for Business to the economic prosperity in the area of Georgian Triangle and Dufferin County,” said Ms. Guergis.  “It will help the CFDC provide vital services to enhance business growth, job creation and economic diversification.”

“This funding emphasizes our government’s commitment to supporting communities and businesses in the region,” added Mr. Tilson.  “We are committed to building on strengths in the economy to create new business and industry through the Community Futures Program.”

“CFDCs like the Centre for Business and Economic Development are among the most effective economic development tools available to ensure the prosperity of rural Ontario communities,” stated Mr. Miller.  “This funding will have a direct positive impact on area residents and the local businesses.”

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 global success.

CFDCs provide services to enhance local economic development and small business growth, including access to capital, business counselling, support for community-based projects, strategic community planning and socio-economic development.

“Now in our 23rd year of operation, we pride ourselves in providing our clients with the very best programs and services to help them succeed,” said Centre for Business and Economic Development Chair, Jack Peckitt.  “With FedNor’s continued support, we intend to keep meeting those needs for many years to come.”

The Centre for Business and Economic Development is one of 61 CFDCs in rural and Northern Ontario funded by FedNor’s Community Futures Program.

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

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