March 25, 2008

INGERSOLL, Ontario — The Government of Canada is continuing to support the growth and success of small and medium-sized businesses through an investment in the local Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) known as the Oxford Small Business Support Centre.

Dave MacKenzie, Member of Parliament for Oxford, announced the investment of $897,500 today, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor.  The funding will support the ongoing operations of the CFDC over the next three years.

“The Community Futures Program is a key tool in our government’s commitment to building strong, self-reliant communities in rural Ontario,” stated Mr. MacKenzie.  “Its tremendous success has been built on the dedication and hard work of CFDCs such as the Oxford Small Business Support Centre, and today’s funding further demonstrates our appreciation of their efforts.”

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 services; support for community-based projects; and strategic community planning and socio-economic development.

Over the last year, the Oxford Small Business Support Centre invested more than $720,000 in small and medium-sized businesses in the region, resulting in the creation or maintenance of 36 full and part-time jobs, and contributing to an enhanced business community.

“We are grateful for the faith that the Government of Canada has shown in our organization,” said Adrian Ten Hove, Chair of the Oxford Small Business Support Centre.  “This multi-year funding provides us with the means to meet the ever-increasing needs of the businesses in our service area.”

The Oxford Small Business Support Centre 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:

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