The FGA Signs $500k Agreement with MEDJCT to Support Francophone Entrepreneurs in Ontario
Toronto, June 26, 2024 – The Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario (FGA) is pleased to announce the official signature of a $500,000 funding agreement over two years with the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development, and Trade of Ontario (MEDJCT). The ceremony took place today at 10 a.m., in the presence of Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs, and Nina Tangri, Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction.
As announced by the Ontario government during the unveiling of the 2024-2025 provincial budget, an additional investment of $6.8 million has been committed for the next two years to support entrepreneurs through Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs). As part of this funding, the FGA will receive $500,000 over 2 years to provide additional support to help Ontario’s Francophone entrepreneurs to start and grow their business through dedicated advisory supports, workshops and events.
“This funding from the Ontario government is a significant step forward in empowering our Francophone entrepreneurs with the essential tools and support needed to thrive in Ontario’s competitive business landscape. With this investment, we can provide crucial resources and guidance in French, helping our business community innovate, flourish, and contribute significantly to Ontario’s economy. We are grateful for the government’s ongoing commitment to our community, which is a testament to the vital role Franco-Ontarians play in the province’s growth. The FGA is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and successful Francophone business ecosystem, and we look forward to the opportunities that will arise from this funding.” – Dominic Mailloux, President, FGA
This agreement aims to strengthen the Francophone entrepreneurial ecosystem in Ontario through French-language consulting services, awareness activities, and partnerships with SBECs. The FGA commits to:
- Providing business consulting services including personalized consultations, mentoring and coaching services, as well as resources and information to help entrepreneurs start, sustain, or expand their businesses.
- Organizing workshops, seminars, and networking events targeting Francophone entrepreneurs, including specific groups such as women, newcomers, and visible minorities.
- Conducting outreach efforts to promote FGA services within the Francophone community and develop local partnerships.
- Facilitating access to local networks such as chambers of commerce and sectoral associations for Francophone entrepreneurs.
Thanks to this agreement, the FGA will be better equipped to address the needs of Francophone businesses facing challenges accessing French-language economic development services. The FGA thanks MEDJCT for their trust and support towards Ontario’s Francophone community.
“Ontario’s Francophone entrepreneurs and business owners are important to the economy and our government’s support reflects our targeted and responsible approach to fostering economic growth across the province.” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business. “This investment will enable FGA to provide Francophone entrepreneurs the tools they need to start and grow their businesses, create jobs and contribute to building a strong and resilient economy.”
We are proud of the recognition the government has given to our organization, a testament to the essential role FGA plays in the Francophone economic landscape of the province.
– 30 –
About the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario (FGA)
The Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario supports, represents, and advances the interests of its members and economic actors. Its mission is to fully promote the francophone business community through policy development based on principles, ingenious business services, and innovative activities focused on the development of francophone commercial markets. Currently, the FGA has around fifty direct members, representing over 5000 Franco-Ontarian businesses.
Information
Mélanie Grenier
Communications Manager
media@fedefranco.ca
