Federal Government Announces $8.5 Million Funding of Two Projects For Conservation Efforts and Ecosystem Protection In Peterborough.

The Federal Government has invested over $8.5 million in funding for two projects that will help advance conservation efforts and protect ecosystems in Peterborough, announced at Jackson Park on Thursday afternoon.

File Photo.

The announcement was made by Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, and Adam van Koeverden, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and to the Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

“Protecting nature is one of the best and easiest ways that we can fight climate change,” said Valdez. “These vital ecosystems, like those here in Peterborough, absorb carbon and increase our communities’ resilience to the effects of climate change.”

The Government of Canada has launched the largest conservation campaign in the country’s history in order to meet its emissions reduction targets and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 according to Valdez.

“Our government has launched the largest ever conservation campaign in Canada’s history, with a goal of protecting 30 per cent of lands and waters in Canada,” she said. “That starts with protecting spaces like these. The long-term benefits are enormous, getting us closer to our climate goals and protecting forever the critical habitat of so many species.”

The projects being funded under the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund are:

• $7 million for the Kawartha Land Trust to support its work to advance conservation efforts under way by securing an additional 566 hectares of intact temperate forest and freshwater coastal habitat to support 28 species at risk

• $1.586 million for the Association of Conservation Authorities of Ontario to protect vital ecosystems from destruction and fund activities that protect at-risk species, including Snapping Turtle, False Hop Sedge and Chimney Swift

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Ontario Government Invests Nearly $450,000 For Training Towards Creating Jobs In Trade Sector

The Ontario Government has invested $435,210 to train 75 workers for in-demand careers in aviation and construction, announced at Flying Colours on Monday morning.

The investment brings Ontario's total in skills development training through SDF to nearly $1.1 billion. Since its launch in 2021, Ontario's Skills Development Fund has helped connect more than half a million jobseekers with the skills and training they need to find well-paying and fulfilling careers close to home. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Our government is proud to invest in programs that support training and upskilling,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “This project will give people the necessary skills needed to land in-demand and well-paying jobs in their communities and contribute to our province.”

The training is provided through the Skills Development Training Stream, which is in partnership with Peterborough and the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) in the Build & Soar program.

It matches students from the Construction and Aerospace & Aviation Specialist High Skills Majors programs at Peterborough Victoria Northumberland Clarington Catholic District School Board and the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board with local employers in the construction, aerospace and aviation industry according to a press release.

The program also contains an eight-week placement with a local employer. It will also allow students to learn about flight training through flight simulators for students pursuing a career in the military or commercial pilot pathways.

“Ontario's trades are vital to the growth of the economy and our government's 'Plan to Build’ offering careers that lead to secure jobs and a good quality life,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Which is why having programs like the Build & Soar will set them on the path to success.”

The Skills Development Fund Training Stream is open to applicants such as employers, industry associations, labour unions, municipalities, hospitals and more.

“Introducing youth to local employment opportunities is crucial, as it not only equips them with real-life work experience but also strengthens the community's economic fabric,” said Rhonda Keenan, PKED president and CEO . “Local companies play a pivotal role in this process, offering invaluable mentorship and skill-building opportunities while simultaneously tapping into and nurturing the future workforce. By investing in young talent, these businesses contribute to a cycle of growth and innovation that benefits both the students and the broader community.”

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Provincial Government Invests Nearly $450,000 Into Peterborough-Kawartha Long-Term Care Homes

The Ontario Government has invested $444,135 to four local long-term care homes in Peterborough-Kawartha area as part of the Local Priorities Fund, announced at Fairhaven Long-Term Care Home on Friday morning.

The Local Priorities Fund is part of a broader investment of over $120 million in 2022-23 and complements the recently launched Equipment and Training Fund. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The following homes are receiving the investment:

• Extendicare Lakefield: $5,950

• Extendicare Peterborough: $37,321

• Fairhaven Long Term Care: $261,059

• St. Joseph’s at Fleming: $139,805

“The Ontario government’s investment will enhance the services we provide to our resident’s care needs,” said to Nancy Rooney, Fairhave executive director. “The Local Priority Fund allows our residents to have the care required without overburdening our hospitals.”

The funding will help long-term care homes be supplied with items such as IV equipment, bariatrics equipment bed support, bladder scanners, and ECGs. It also goes towards everyday items like slip-proof floor mats, wrap around bed rails, and grab bars according Rooney.

This funding covers costs for specialized staffing, equipment and services for new or increasingly complex medical or specialized equipment needs which cannot currently be accommodated in our home,” she said. “This Fund has made a significant impact to our organization. We greatly appreciate the provincial support in funding different initiative such as the Local Priorities Fund.”

“This investment, tailored to the needs of our community will provide long-term care residents right here in Peterborough-Kawartha with specialized supports and services they need,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

The Local Priorities Fund was launched in 2022. Since then, roughly $20 million was invested in 2022-23 to help long-term care homes purchase specialized equipment and train staff to provide more specialized care according to a press release. It continues to state that the funding allows homes to welcome residents who have complex needs but no longer require acute care in hospital.

Any current residents who have new or increasingly complex medical or specialized equipment needs which could not be previously accommodated in their long-term care home can be treated on-site rather than unnecessary hospital admissions.

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City of Peterborough's Flood Reduction Subsidy Program Available

Property owners can access the City of Peterborough’s Flood Reduction Subsidy Program for funding.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

The program assists with eliminating sources of groundwater and rainwater entering their sanitary sewer system which can cause basement flooding.

Rainwater and groundwater entering the sanitary sewer can cause basement flooding, environmental hazards and more significant wastewater treatment costs for taxpayers. It also reduces sewer capacity for future growth and decreases the sewer system’s lifespan.

Through the Flood Reduction Subsidy Program, the City provides financial assistance toward the following property improvements:

• Installation of a backwater valve (full cost up to $1,000)

• Foundation drain disconnection from a sanitary sewer with a sump pit and pump installation (full cost up to $1,500)

• Backwater valve installation and foundation drain disconnect from the sanitary sewer with a sump pit and pump together for the same property (eligible for full cost up to $3,000)

• Repair of broken or missing clean out caps (maximum of $50)

• Downspout (full cost up to $500) and roof drain (full cost up to $3,500) disconnection from the sanitary sewer

• Catch basin disconnection from the sanitary sewer and reconnected to the storm sewer (full cost up to $15,000)

For properties with more than one eligible item from this list, funding eligibility will be based on a case-by-case basis.

By participating in the Flood Reduction Subsidy Program and removing the rainwater inflow or groundwater infiltration sources, residents will reduce the potential of basement flooding while improving our community’s environment and reducing City of Peterborough's costs for wastewater treatment and sewer system upgrades.

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Innovation Cluster's LevelUP Program Invites Growth-Stage Tech Companies to Win $10,000

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas’ (ICPK) business accelerator program ‘LevelUP’ is gearing up to begin its second cohort for growth-stage tech companies a chance to win $10,000 on Aug. 14.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 12-week program supports innovative tech-based businesses ready to commercialize and scale. According to Innovation Cluster, the program focuses on validating business ideas and funding preparation, guided by industry experts who equip participants with practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and essential business skills.

They continue to state that program highlights include learning about branding, revenue models, go-to-market plans, customer acquisition, and funding and exit strategies.

The course ended with a pitch competition in November where participants will have a chance to win a $10,000 cash prize.

Latchmi Raghunanan, co-founder of Maman Biomedical Inc., won the $10,000 pitch competition in LevelUP’s inaugural cohort, pitching her company’s trailblazing products disrupting the in vitro fertilization sector. 

“Winning the LevelUP pitch competition allowed us to accelerate and move forward,” said Latchmi. “On top of the $10,000 we won, the program gave us the knowledge and tools to successfully raise $30,000 in funding and increase our visibility and credibility in a very short period of time.”

After completing the program, a press release states that participating businesses will have a detailed business plan, be ready to refine and test their MVP, have a robust go-to-market strategy, have an improved investor pitch, be ready to drive sales and customer acquisition and be well-networked among mentors, industry experts, and potential investors. 

“Our first cohort saw incredibly driven and innovative entrepreneurs whose businesses continue to grow since graduating from the program,” said Zahra Shafiei, LevelUP program lead. We are excited to invite all eligible and passionate business leaders to apply for our 2nd cohort so they too can experience these high levels of progress.”

Sessions will be held every Wednesday for 12 weeks, beginning on Aug. 14. Participants can join virtually or in person at ICPK’s downtown Peterborough location. 

Eligibility Requirements

• Open to entrepreneurs in sectors such as Clean Tech, Healthcare Tech, AgTech, and Digital IT.

• Must be an innovation-driven business with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and a team committed to growth and collaboration.

• Must be a company based in Ontario.
  
  This is the last cohort being offered free of charge to participants with applications due by July 15.

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Ontario Government Invests Up to $6 Million In Grants For Seniors

The Ontario Government is investing up to $6 million through the Seniors Community Grant Program to support 282 community projects that help seniors and older adults stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The Seniors Community Grants Program is a great example of how our government is working for local communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “We are pleased to provide funding for so many programs that bring older people together to avoid being socially isolated, learn new skills, get fit, enjoy group activities and stay connected to their neighbours and friends.”

Up to $25,000 per project is invested in local programs, services and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement according to a press release. It continues to state that Program is a unique Ontario government grant designed to reduce social isolation, fight ageism and create positive connections.

“Seniors need to connect with the community and stay fit, healthy, and active,’’ said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By investing in seniors programs, we will be helping more adults get the programs and services they need to live healthy, independent lives.”

Seniors Community Grants projects receiving funding in Peterborough this year include The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough Kawartha Lakes Northumberland and Haliburton. They will receive up to $23,209 to provide rural seniors living with dementia and their caregivers a series of ‘night out’ events to support socialization, reduce stigma and build a more dementia-friendly community.

Age-friendly Peterborough will receive up to $25,000 to transform the way seniors age in place by providing customized health, fitness, social, educational and recreational workshops at several City apartments primarily occupied by older adults according to Jayne Culbert, Age-friendly Coordinator.

“The proportion of older adults 65 and better increased 16 per cent in the Peterborough region from 2016 to 2021 and that number will continue to grow,”she said. “Twenty-five per cent of the residents who live in the greater Peterborough area are seniors and, in some townships, it is over 30 per cent. This is significant as the national and provincial average is 19 per cent. Receiving funding from the Ontario Government helps organizations to support our local older population through innovative projects.”

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Art Gallery of Peterborough Receives $25,000 In Funding For Online Exhibition

The Art Gallery of Peterborough (AGP) is receiving $25,000 from Digital Museums Canada, a funding program managed by the Canadian Museum of History, to produce an online exhibition about the Gallery’s history. 

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

“‘Permaculture: The Story of the Art Gallery of Peterborough’ is going to help us remember and thank our founding members and understand the journey our gallery has been on over the last 50 years. I am excited to see the completed project,” said Debby Keating, AGP board president.

This project will celebrate the hard work, dedication and grassroots collaboration of a community, primarily driven by women, who were devoted to the prosperity of arts and culture in the Peterborough-Kawartha region. The completed digital exhibition is expected to launch in 2026. It will explore the origin story of the Art Gallery of Peterborough and take a deep dive into a few key moments in its history.

‘Permaculture: The Story of the Art Gallery of Peterborough,’ was one of eight selected nationwide by an independent advisory committee as part of the Digital Museums Canada (DMC) Community Stories funding stream. DMC recently announced an investment of more than $2 million in 18 new online projects developed by museums, heritage, cultural and Indigenous organizations across Canada.

“We were delighted to receive a record number of proposal submissions this year,” said Leah Resnick, DiMC director. “The DMC investment program provides critical funding as well as application assistance and mentorship for equity-deserving communities.”

Close to 150 proposals were received across the Digital Projects and Community Stories streams this year. Over 40 per cent of awarded projects are from organizations supporting equity-deserving communities.

The DMC investment program helps build digital capacity in Canadian museums and heritage, as well as cultural and Indigenous organizations and gives people living in Canada unique access to diverse stories and experiences. DMC is managed by the Canadian Museum of History, with the financial support of the Government of Canada.

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Community Futures Peterborough Launches New Green Funding Program For Any Peterborough City/County Business Of Up to $100,000

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) for Earth Day, unveiled its Climate Change and Environment Fund to help any Peterborough County and City businesses reduce their carbon footprint, announced at Charlotte Products Ltd. on Monday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Like many organizations and leaders in the community, we want to be a part of helping fight climate change and encourage green investment in the Peterborough area,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “Launching this new lending program is one way we can play a role in supporting existing businesses while also trying to attract new green companies to the region.”

The Climate Change and Environment Fund is open to any business to finance a project to reduce carbon emissions or waste. These projects could consider energy-efficient upgrades (including capital upgrades) to reduce energy bills, renewable energy improvements, or considerations of circular economies, including localizing supply chains or buying reusable bins. Under this fund, CFP will lend money at a prime rate, up to $100,000 per project.

Charlotte Products Ltd. has reduced carbon emissions by investing in the creation of its local manufacturing facilities instead of sourcing from the United States and globally.

“On behalf of the Charlotte Products team, we are honoured to host this exciting launch of the Climate Change and Environment Fund by Community Futures Peterborough,” says Matt Strano, Charlotte Products Ltd. CEO. “Sustainability is a primary concern for numerous businesses in our community,and initiatives like this fund will further bolster and reinforce their ongoing efforts.”

“The climate crisis is bringing a variety of increased financial pressures to our businesses including supply chain disruption and the rising costs of both shipping and natural gas,” said Tegan Moss, GreenUP executive director. “The Climate Change and Environment Fund is an opportunity for businesses to invest now in solutions that can help their businesses manage these costs while being a part of the solution. Imagine the possibilities: energy-efficient upgrades, renewable energy installations, circular economy initiatives – all aimed at reducing emissions, lowering costs, and enhancing the brand image of our businesses.”

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Savage Arms Creating 49 New Jobs With $500,000 From Government of Ontario; Part of $3.3 Million Investment For Production of Two Rifles

As part of a $3,364,206 investment, the Ontario Government is funding $504,361 to Savage Arms for the development of 49 jobs through two product lines, announced in Lakefield on Tuesday afternoon.

(left to right) Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP; Terry McCullough, Savage Arms Canada vice-president and general manage, David Myles, Director of Manufacturing and Sherry Senis, Selwyn Mayor, put on display the prototypes of the new lever action rimfire rifles as part of the $3.3 million investment. Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.

The funding is through the Regional Development Program of Eastern Ontario’s Development Fund. Along with the provincial government’s funding, Savage Arms is also investing over $2.5 million to introduce two new rifles with takedown/disassembly features such as their new level action rimfire rifle and centrefire hunting rifle.

“Our government is building a strong Ontario and strengthening the economy by supporting key investments in communities in Selwyn Township,” Said Dave Smith, Peterborugh'-Kawartha MPP. “This investment from Savage Arms, supported by the provincial government will grow local manufacturing and create more jobs for workers and families in Petebrorough County.”

The development is of the rifles are ongoing as part of a three-year timeline to complete the process. Full-time positions can range from salaries in the $20 an hour range with upwards to around $80,000 a year with the manufacturer hiring now of people with a wide array of skill levels according to Terry McCullough, Savage Arms vice president and general manager.

“We have positions like general machine operator, quality engineer, CNC technician positions, design engineers, product manager and human resources,” he said. “We employ all levels of people from a general machine operator to a technical programmer.”

Majority of rifles made are shipped to a facility in the United States that redistributes them globally. Local consumers can obtain the rifles (and already finished products) upon completion at stores such as Canadian Tire, Accuracy Plus, Bass Pro Shop and Cabela's.

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Havelock Seniors Club Approved For Funding Up to $65,000 Towards Seniors Activity Living Centre Program

To help promote healthy active living, the Havelock Seniors Club has been approved for funding of up to $65,000 through the Seniors Activity Living Centre (SALC) program.

Seniors Active Living Centre programs offer social, cultural, learning, and recreational programs for seniors. By promoting wellness, social connections, and education these programs can help reduce social isolation and encourage seniors to stay active, independent and engaged. There are approximately 316 programs across the province. Photo courtesy of Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen.

Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility; Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP; Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden; and Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Township Mayor Jim Martin made the announcement.

The program promotes active and healthy living, social engagement and learning for older adults and seniors by providing them with activities and services according to a press release. SALC programs help build healthier and safer communities and address an aging population's long-term growth and needs.

“Community connection is critical for the health and well-being of seniors in our communities,” said Cho. “Our government proudly supports the new Havelock Seniors Active Living Centre program which will provide valuable programming to keep seniors in the community connected, healthy and engaged.”

“This funding that the Havelock Seniors Centre will be receiving through the SALC program will enable seniors to enjoy activities with their friends that will help reduce social isolation and provide them with the means to stay active and engaged,” said Smith.

“We could not have come as far as we have without the hard work and dedication of the Club's many volunteers, both past and present,” said Mary Pequegnat, Havelock Seniors Club president. “This funding will allow us to grow our programs and reach into our more rural communities with accessible services.”

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