Citizens can voice opinions to assist northern businesses

The Ontario government's Northern Development Councils have announced they will tap into regional expertise to help develop recommendations for high-potential business growth strategies, says Northern Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci.

"We're on the side of northerners," said Bartolucci, in a news release. "That's why we're initiating a dialogue with northerners about growing and strengthening northern businesses."

The research phase began late last year with a review of research and previous reports, said Bartolucci. The councils used this information to develop potential growth strategies.

Northerners now have an opportunity to comment on a wide variety of proposed business-support strategies and to identify those they think would be of greater benefit for their own communities, he said.

Councils will now solicit input through their website and online survey, a print survey distributed through chambers of commerce, and meetings with business, community leaders and key stakeholder groups, he said.

Opportunities for northerners to participate in a community session are posted on the Northern Development Councils website at www.ndc.gov.on.ca.

The Ontario government has other initiatives to support business growth and job creation in Northern Ontario, said Bartolucci. They include:

* A $13-million business program through the Northern Ontario Grow Bonds Pilot Project.

* Supporting business starts through the Northern Ontario Young Entrepreneur Program of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).

* Establishing the Small Business Agency of Ontario to give owners and operators a voice at Queen's Park.