March 27, 2008
St. Thomas, Ontario, March 27, 2008 — The Government of Canada is assisting the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations (OACFDC) in its efforts to promote economic development, small business growth and job creation. Member of Parliament for Elgin–Middlesex–London, Joe Preston, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor, today announced a contribution of $319,500 to the OACFDC for its ongoing operations over the next year.
“This investment demonstrates our Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to the vitality of Ontario’s rural and Northern communities,” stated Mr. Preston. “This funding will enable the Association to support the work of Ontario CFDCs in developing local economies, assisting small businesses and creating jobs.”
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.
The OACFDC, which is in its 15th year of operation, is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors representing 61 CFDCs throughout the province. It acts as an advocate on behalf of its members and provides support in the areas of professional development, operational and planning services, networking, marketing and stakeholder relations.
"We are proud of the role we play in supporting the effectiveness of the CFDC network in rural and Northern Ontario,” said OACFDC President, Ken Sheppard. "FedNor is a key partner in our efforts and we appreciate the confidence the Government of Canada continues to show in our organization."
The OACFDC and the 61 Community Futures Development Corporations in rural and Northern Ontario are funded by FedNor’s Community Futures Program.
To find out more about Ontario CFDCs, visit: http://cfdc-ontario.ic.gc.ca
To learn more about the OACFDC, visit: http://www.oacfdc.com/
For more information, please contact:
Erik Waddell
Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200
Mario Paluzzi
Communications Officer, FedNor
705-941-2064 or 1-877-333-6673