FedNor funding helps local farmers increase production to meet growing demand

NICKEL BELT – GREATER SUDBURY - Today, Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages and to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced FedNor funding of $750,000 to help Don Poulin Potatoes expand, adopt new technology and scale up capacity for growth, new partnerships and the creation of new jobs. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor.

This unconditionally repayable investment allowed Don Poulin Potatoes to construct a new 12,000 square foot production facility and purchase specialized equipment such as a Upmatic Electronic Weigher, Upmatic Double Paper Bagger, turbo dryer, racking system and a packing line. Funded through FedNor’s Regional Growth Through Innovation Fund (REGI) – Jobs and Growth Fund, this expansion project is expected to help this iconic local business increase production, productivity and profitability, paving the way for more jobs and growth opportunities.

Strong economies need strong and growing local businesses. That is why the Government of Canada is proud to be investing in projects like this, which support innovation and technology adoption, while helping a prominent agriculture businesses scale up and create high-quality jobs in Northern Ontario.

Quotes

“This is an important investment in one of the key sectors of our economy in Northern Ontario. It will allow Don Poulin Potatoes to upgrade equipment and expand its operations. This is about supporting good paying jobs and building an economy in our region that that works for everyone, not just the few.”- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor

“I’m thrilled this investment supports the continued growth and long-term sustainability of Don Poulin Potatoes. This fifth generation family-owned business is expanding, modernizing operations, and streamlining processes and I am proud that the Government of Canada is helping to make it happen. Food security, job creation and a strong economy are vital to our social and economic success - this priority project delivers on all fronts.”  - Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages and to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

“FedNor’s support is helping us grow our family business so we can increase production and productivity, and expand our operations to accommodate the increased demand for our high-quality potatoes. We are one of the largest potato growers in Northern Ontario and this expansion project means we can take our business to the next level, hire more people and position the company for sustainable long-term success.” - Dan Poulin, Owner/Operator, Don Poulin Potatoes

 Quick facts

• Growing 400 acres of potatoes in Chelmsford, Ontario, Don Poulin Potatoes is one of the largest potato growers in the region. This family-owned and operated agri-food business specializes in potato production, packing and distribution.
• The project being supported by today’s announcement is funded through the FedNor-administered Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF). JGF is a $700-million fund delivered by the regional development agencies (RDAs) to help businesses and the organizations who support them to future-proof, build resiliency, and prepare for growth by transitioning to a green economy, foster an inclusive recovery, enhance competitiveness, and create jobs. Of this support, $70 million has been dedicated to businesses and organizations created after January 2020.
• The Government of Canada’s Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario identifies investing in building the economic development capacity of municipalities and Indigenous communities in the region as a key action.

Associated links

• To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: gc.ca
• Follow us on Twitter @FedNor

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Media Contact:
Kaylie Dudgeon
Special Assistant
Marc G. Serré
MP Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources
705-507-2416
[email protected]