FedNor invests to strengthen manufacturing sector and create jobs in Thunder Bay
News release
Government of Canada announces $570,250 to help local businesses scale up and create 30 local jobs
May 26, 2022 – Thunder Bay, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
A key part of Canada’s economic recovery is supporting businesses as they rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic. To do so, businesses and entrepreneurs need a strong foundation, built on innovation, inclusivity and clean growth to create the workforce of the future.
Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor was joined by Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament, Thunder Bay—Rainy River, to announce FedNor investments totaling $570,250 for two projects designed to fuel business growth and optimize manufacturing processes. Funded through FedNor’s Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF), these strategic initiatives are expected to create up to 30 local jobs and support the long-term success of two prominent Thunder Bay businesses.
Countermeasures Security Solutions Inc. will be receiving $470,250 to implement its Countermeasures Advanced Manufacturing Expansion project. This investment will allow the company to expand its manufacturing capacity by purchasing a Robotic Extrusion Processing Cell and Computerized Numerical Control lathe. The funding will also support facility enhancements and new equipment to help the business expand into Canadian, United States and overseas markets and increase exports. As a direct result of this investment, Countermeasures expects to create 15 full-time jobs.
As part of the announcement, Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. will also receive $100,000 to expand and modernize its operations, and optimize production. These strategic upgrades will allow Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. to expand its product line, achieve distribution and production efficiencies, increase the shelf life of its products and create 15 local jobs.
Innovation and technology adoption are key to driving our economy forward as we recover from the impact of COVID-19. In Northern Ontario, the Government of Canada is investing in innovation and technology adoption, while helping business to start up, scale up, create local jobs and fully participate in our economic recovery.
Quotes
“Strong local economies rely directly on local businesses and manufacturers. As they work to rebuild and overcome the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, we will ensure they have the resources they need to expand, create jobs and plan for the future. Today’s announcement will help create 30 local jobs, while building capacity to support two Thunder Bay businesses as they scale up and modernize their operations.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
“Today’s announcement will help unleash the economic potential of two local manufacturers with high-growth potential. These projects with Countermeasures Security Solutions and Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. are great examples of how technology and innovation are helping local businesses capitalize on new opportunities, while supporting jobs, growth and a strong economy.”
- Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament, Thunder Bay—Rainy River
“FedNor support has been instrumental in our efforts to fast-track our advanced manufacturing expansion project. The funding announced today will help us modernize and expand our operations, hire 15 new employees and position us to capitalize on domestic and international opportunities.”
- Phil Tremblay, Operations Manager, Countermeasures Security Solutions Inc.
“We’re thrilled that FedNor is supporting this major expansion of our brewery, which will help us reduce costs, expand our product line, create 15 jobs and see our production increase significantly. This exciting project will also allow us to increase exports and the shelf life of our products, allowing us to extend our reach and get our
high-quality brew into the hands of more beer enthusiasts.”- Andrea Mulligan, CEO & Co-Founder, Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.
Quick facts
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Sleeping Giant Brewing Company opened in 2012 as Thunder Bay's first craft brewery company, becoming one of Northern Ontario’s premier breweries. The company manufactures and retails high-quality craft beer to retail outlets across Canada.
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For over 20 years, Countermeasures Security Solutions Inc. has manufactured automated gate assemblies and perimeter security services for residential, industrial and commercial use. The company is comprised of three divisions: Northwest Fencing (installing fencing and gates), Lakehead Overhead Door (garage, commercial, and industrial doors) and Countermeasures Security Solutions.
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The Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF) is a $700-million fund delivered by the regional development agencies (RDAs) to help businesses and the organizations who support them to future-proof, build resiliency and prepare for growth by transitioning to a green economy, foster an inclusive recovery, enhance competitiveness and create jobs. Of this support, $70 million has been dedicated to businesses and organizations created after January 2020. FedNor has delivered more than $15.5 million through the JGF across Northern Ontario to date.
Associated links
Contacts
Alison Murphy, Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
Alison.Murphy@sac-isc.gc.ca
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Media Relations
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