FedDev Ontario working with communities to create jobs and build stronger economies

Wallaceburg, ON — The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) is now accepting applications under the second phase of the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) for projects aimed at stimulating local economies and strengthening the competitiveness of southern Ontario communities.

MP Bev Shipley welcomed the announcement made by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, that as of December 15, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are able to submit applications under the second intake of CAF funding.

“Our government is working with communities to create new opportunities and new jobs,” said Shipley. “This new intake process will ensure the people and businesses in Lambton-Kent-Middlesex will be able to build a brighter future.”

In addition to SMEs, municipalities, not-for-profits, Aboriginal organizations, colleges and universities are all eligible to submit projects.

The Community Adjustment Fund will support projects in and around resource-based and manufacturing communities depending on a single industry. The fund will invest in projects that create immediate job opportunities for communities. It will focus not only on economic development, but innovation and diversification.

Overall funding for the second intake process is $127.8 million in 2010-11.

Applications for funding in 2010-11 will be accepted from December 15, 2009, to January 18, 2010.

For additional details on program eligibility, please see the backgrounder. To download an application, please visit the FedDev Ontario website at www.southernontario.gc.ca .

CAF is one of a series of initiatives, unveiled as part of the Economic Action Plan, to help communities address the short-term challenges from the economic downturn and prepare them for long-term growth.