The province of Ontario recently said it was boosting Sudbury’s local economy by investing more than C$3.5 million in six mining projects that are expected to create 28 jobs and spur innovation. This investment, made through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), supports the following projects:

• Accutron Instruments Inc received C$148,200 to develop prototypes for communications and monitoring systems for use in mining and industrial operations
• BESTECH received C$146,661 to develop a Blast Gas Clearance Module to optimise ventilation of blast gas from underground mining corridors and improve productivity
• Boart Longyear Canada received C$1.37 million to develop technology for mineral exploration rigs with the potential to improve safety for miners, increase efficiency and reduce drilling costs
• Hardrock Mining Products received C$1 million to relocate, modernise and expand its Sudbury operation to increase productivity and meet market demands
• Rock-Tech received C$800,000 to help construct a new facility to expand its mining equipment manufacturing operations
• TesMan Inc received C$75,000 to develop innovative technology that will improve mine safety by enabling the explosives loading process to be completed from a distance

The statement said: “Investing in the mining sector is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario’s history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.”

Since 2013, Ontario has invested more than C$423 million through the NOHFC toward 2,737 projects, leveraging more than $1.3 billion in direct economic activity. Through these investments, more than 9,800 jobs have been created and retained. “Support for the province’s mining sector — which accounts for more than 26,000 direct jobs and 50,000 indirect jobs — is an important part of the government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario. Ontario’s Mineral Development Strategy is creating modern and progressive business practices to make sure the mineral sector is sustainable for generations to come.”

“Ontario’s renewed Mineral Development Strategy understands that a competitive, innovative and safe mining sector is essential to positioning our province as the global leader in sustainable mineral development and production. Our government’s investments through the NOHFC will ensure Ontario continues to be the place that the world’s industry turns to for innovations in mining technology, ” said Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC.