The Government of Canada supports the long-term economic growth of indigenous businesses and job creation in southeastern Ontario

Investment of more than $1 million to support 60 indigenous businesses and create 120 internships and jobs for indigenous people

November 25, 2022 – Lindsay, Ont.

Indigenous businesses, organizations and workers are vital contributors to Canada’s economy and our nation’s rich culture, but employers and job seekers need the tools and resources to start and grow their businesses or look for employment. The Pinnguaq Association (Pinnguaq) is a non-profit organization focused on working with rural, remote and indigenous communities to ensure they have the support they need to develop digital literacy and the skills necessary to position them for success.

Today, the Honorable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced support for economic growth and job creation with an investment of more than $1 million, through the Employment and Growth Fundfor Pinnguaq to adapt its digital literacy training tools to support businesses and underrepresented job seekers in the indigenous communities of southeastern Ontario.

Through the two-year project, businesses will be supported and indigenous job seekers will receive training to strengthen their digital skills, from basic computer skills to digital marketing and communications, as well as graphic and website design to prepare them for employment. . Individuals will also participate in targeted internship opportunities, job placements, and recruitment activities, gaining on-the-job experience to prepare for future employment. The project is expected to support 60 indigenous businesses with funds to support up to 120 internships and job placements.

In partnership with a growing network of indigenous communities and organizations in southern Ontario, Pinnguaq and its partners are co-designing workshops to help indigenous businesses grow and prosper. Courses introduce digital business tools such as e-commerce, accounting, and social media marketing to increase consumer awareness, as well as green business practices to future-proof your business, and strategies for sustainable employee recruitment and retention to maintain establishments. working. Through the project, Pinnguaq is also adapting its digital training tools with the aim of helping companies and employers navigate an increasingly technological world. The program focuses on the Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Haliburton and Hastings regions, including Treaty 20 and Williams Treaty nations.

Pinnguaq and its partners will ensure that 100 percent of the businesses supported through the program are indigenous-owned or majority-led. In addition, the internship and job placement component of the program is geared toward youth, women, and/or 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.

As we walk the path of reconciliation together, the federal government remains committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal businesses and communities to create economic opportunities, including support for Aboriginal businesses and job seekers.

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