Bruce Grey Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker has announced thousands of dollars in funding as part of the "Open for Business" plan for Ontario.
Walker says nearly one in eight jobs in Ontario is being sustained by the agriculture and agri-food sector.
He explains the Rural Economic Development program is an important investment that will create jobs and open doors to new economic development in the region.
The Saugeen Economic Development Corporation will receive up to $34,000.00 to implement the "Saugeen Connects" plan including succession matching, immigrant attraction, and youth development and retention.
The Township of Chatsworth will receive up to $10,000 to hire a consultant to develop a municipal brand, and key messaging for targeted audiences
The Corporation of the County of Grey will receive up to $15,000 to retain a consultant to prepare a workforce development plan.
“Rural Ontario has been ignored for too long. A strong and vibrant agri-food and agriculture sector is a priority for this government," said Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “These investments along with our commitment to cut red-tape will help create a strong future for our rural communities by boosting economic growth, creating jobs and ensuring they are great places to live and do business."
The City of Owen Sound will receive up to $14,500 to integrate digital media, creative thinking and face-to-face interaction to attract entrepreneurs to the area as phase two of their “Are You Most” campaign.