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Ontario Investing $2,572,214 to Help Job Seekers in Thunder Bay - Atikokan Launch Their Careers

  • May 4
  • 2 min read

Investment will strengthen the province’s workforce by supporting valuable work experience opportunities


News Release | May 4th, 2026

THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government has invested more than $2,572,214 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) since January 2026 to connect job seekers in Thunder Bay – Atikokan and Thunder Bay – Superior North to 75 internship positions. As part of its plan to protect Ontario, the province is investing strategically to build a highly skilled workforce through career development opportunities that help launch rewarding careers and sustain northern Ontario’s growing economy.


“This investment through the NOHFC is helping connect job seekers with local industries, while giving businesses the support they need to hire and grow “ said The Hon. Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay – Atikokan. “These opportunities are helping people gain valuable experience, build skills and contribute to a stronger workforce across our region.”

The NOHFC’s Workforce Development Program and Indigenous Workforce Development Program are designed to help people who are entering the workforce, transitioning to a new career, unemployed or underemployed. The programs help to address labour market gaps by supporting internships in key sectors, including skilled-trades industries such as construction, manufacturing and mining.


“Investments in our workforce is an investment in the future of Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government is proud to support the next generation of workers access internship positions that develop job‑ready skills and provide hands‑on experience for good‑paying careers.”

The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

 

Quick Facts


  • Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across northern Ontario.


  • Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in over 8,200 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,800 jobs.


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