Northumberland-Peterborough South MP Kim Rudd has announced an additional $4.5-million in funding for Northumberland Community Futures Development Corporation for its work in support of local and regional innovation initiatives.
The CFDC will be launching two projects in the near future. Under a local stream for Northumberland County, one will focus on transitioning small and medium-size enterprises into the new rural economy. Under an Eastern Ontario regional stream, the other will focus on accelerating the growth of existing innovation-driven small and medium-sized enterprizes.
Rudd made the announcement in Cobourg at the celebration of one year since Venture 13 opened, where Northumberland CFDC executive director Wendy Curtis had stated how vital government support had been in maximizing the success of so many clients.
“The reason the money came here is because of the results that have been achieved,” Rudd said.
“It's not like someone filling out an application and saying, 'I would like some money because I have a good idea.' It's because of the success of those achievements – fostering those who are willing to take the risks that have been transformative.
“We must innovate or be left behind. We must make the important investments in the entrepreneurs, the visionaries who see where we need to be going.”
It exemplifies what she means when she speaks of a Rural Renaisance, the MP said.
“The jobs of tomorrow are being created here right now, today, in advancements in 3D technology, aviation, surgical, plastic and advanced manuacturing, to name just a few.
“Companies across this province are making world-class advancements right here in our own backyard.”
