Sioux Lookout receives FedNor funding to boost sports tourism
Tim Brody - Editor
The Municipality of Sioux Lookout will benefit from FedNor funding, which will enable the Municipality to hire a consultant to prepare a detailed inventory of existing infrastructure, products and services, and provide a plan for the development of new sports tourism programming.
The federal investment of $67,500 was announced on January 18 by Kenora MP Bob Nault, on behalf of Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
“This federal investment with the Municipality of Sioux Lookout helps local businesses and residents develop a new and effective tourism strategy to boost the economy and create jobs in the community and throughout the region,” stated Nault. “Tourism continues to grow in the North and this investment will assist municipal and business leaders in their decision-making process as they diversify their local economic base.”
A news release issued by Nault further explained, “The community will work with key partners and stakeholders throughout the process, including the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, Lac Seul First Nation, and the many Sioux Lookout sports and recreation clubs.
“Once completed, the strategy is expected to create a supportive environment for new and existing sports events that will drive economic growth in Sioux Lookout through job creation and the improvement of local services.”
“We know that sport plays an important role, not only in the health of Northerners, but also in enriching the fabric of our communities,” concluded Nault. “The funding announced today will help the community of Sioux Lookout prepare a strategy that will help boost sports tourism across the region.”
Sioux Lookout Mayor Doug Lawrance shared, “Sioux Lookout has a strong history of hosting successful sporting events and providing sporting venues for our neighbouring Far North communities. Thanks to FedNor’s support, we will now be able to engage our many partners and stakeholders to develop a strategy that will guide in the development and promotion of new sports tourism products and services, and help us grow and diversify our economy.”
Bains commented, “Sports tourism is a major economic driver in many communities across our nation and I am proud that our government is investing to support communities in their efforts to capitalize on the growth of this important sector. Today’s announcement helps to highlight our commitment to sustainable community economic development, business growth and job creation.”
The funding is being provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program.
