KENORA—Through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, the province announced last week, that it will be investing $340,000 in Northern Ontario’s Aviation Sector. This investment will create jobs in Kenora and across Northern Ontario.
Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, announced that the funding will be directed to Forest Helicopters Inc., to build a new 8,000-square-foot hangar in Kenora. The company is known as a full-service aviation service provider with a fleet of aircraft capable of transporting passengers, materials, and equipment for clients.
This investment will allow the company to expand, purchase new aircraft and hire new staff. "Encouraging economic growth and job creation in Northern Ontario is a key priority for our government," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. "With this investment, Forest Helicopters Inc. can expand its business to continue offering services and meet new demand, benefiting industries across the region."
Forest Helicopters Inc. provides services to several sectors and local governments across the North, including diamond drilling, power line maintenance, fire suppression, wildlife services, airborne geophysics and precision aerial construction. NOHFC funding will be used towards capital construction and to purchase equipment which will create three jobs.
Bart Stevensen, President, Forest Helicopters Inc., reacted to this announcement by saying, “Forest Helicopters is very pleased to have the support of our provincial government. Funds provided through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation will reinforce our ability to service the needs of our customers. The construction of our larger, better equipped facility will facilitate growth and attract employees. Forest Helicopters will soon reach our 25-year milestone with a commitment to be here well into the future.”
The NOHFC promotes economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance, that stimulates growth, creates jobs, and promotes skills development.
