On October 3rd, Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and Parliamentary Assistant to Minister of Rural Affairs, announced that the Township of Lucan-Biddulph will receive up to $1,700 in funding through the latest intake of the Rural Economic Development (RED) program. The RED program supports projects that diversify and grow local economies, build community capacity and address barriers to economic development and labour force challenges.
In Lucan-Biddulph, the funding will help will enhance the town’s main street, contributing to a unified community identity and fostering environmental consciousness, through the purchase and installation of street banners and new garbage/recycling receptacles.
Through the most recent intake of the RED program, the Ontario government is investing more than $5.7 million in 85 projects throughout the province. These projects are helping create jobs and boost economic development in rural communities in Ontario. The intake for these approved projects closed on February 21, 2024.
“Ontario’s RED program is a powerful tool for strengthening our rural communities.” Said Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. “By providing this funding we’re ensuring that our regions can attract investment and foster growth. This initiative is essential for creating economic opportunities, and I’m proud to support projects that empower Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and all of rural Ontario to thrive.”
“Our government recognizes the importance of rural economic development, and this program provides municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profits with the funding they need for projects that contribute to local economic vitality,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs. “The Rural Economic Development program is another example of how our government is ensuring small towns and rural communities across Ontario continue to share in the province’s growth and economic prosperity.”
The RED program provides cost-share funding support towards activities that create strong rural communities. This includes funding assistance to build local capacity and improve job prospects. The Rural Economic Advisory Panel provides recommendations to the minister on applications for funding.
The RED program aligns with the government’s priorities of removing barriers to investment, opening doors to rural economic development, and creating good jobs across the province.
