OTTAWA – Ontario is helping to create jobs and improve economic outcomes for Indigenous people in the Thamesville area. Through the Aboriginal Economic Development Fund (AEDF), the province is investing more than $197,000 over two years in the Delaware Nation Moravian of the Thames community to implement its strategic economic development plan.
This plan will help support major projects in the community including further development of the Naahii Business Centre and Weelateexung Nature Trail. It will also help to improve the community’s capacity to work with private sector partners on economic development initiatives to diversify the local economy.
“The Aboriginal Economic Development Fund is helping Indigenous businesses, communities and organizations create, diversify and collaborate. We’re excited to see this grant helping the Delaware Nation Moravian of the Thames community further develop its local economy,” said David Zimmer, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
Supporting economic development for Indigenous communities is one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.
“This government’s top priority is to grow the economy and create jobs. If Ontario is to maximize its economic and social potential, we must ensure all communities have opportunities to develop, grow and thrive. This investment in the Thamesville area community is important not just for that community but for all of Ontario,” said Brad Duguid, Minister Economic Development and Growth.
Investing in Indigenous communities is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario’s history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
“Delaware Nation Moravian of the Thames acknowledges the Aboriginal Economic Development Fund and contribution. We look forward to the economic growth this contribution will ignite for our Nation,” said Greg Peters, Chief, Delaware Nation Moravian of the Thames.
