Local business gets funding boost to support job creation

A local business in Shallow Lake has received provincial funding to help create more local jobs.

A release from Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Rick Byers’ office on September 20 shares that the Ontario government is “supporting an investment by Shouldice Stone to boost local manufacturing and create new good-paying jobs in the area.”

Shouldice Stone will receive $500,000 from the province through the Regional Development Program’s Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF).

The release from Byers claims that “Ontario is investing $180 million through its Regional Development Program to help manufacturers across the province grow while supporting distinct regional priorities.”

Applications for the next intake round of Regional Development funding remain open until September 26, 2024.

“Our government is building a strong Ontario and creating the conditions for a strong economy by supporting key investments in our community,” said MPP Rick Byers. “Shouldice Stone’s investment will boost the local manufacturing sector and create jobs for workers in Bruce and Grey counties.”

“Our government is proud to support local manufacturers across the province as they grow and create more good-paying jobs in their communities,” added Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “We thank Shouldice Stone for their investment and for contributing to our province’s dynamic and growing manufacturing sector.”

“As we open the doors to our new office, we are not merely unveiling a new space; we are laying the foundation for a future defined by innovation and excellence. This facility will be a crucial platform for us to drive cutting-edge solutions and enhance our customer experience. We’re thrilled with the immediate improvements we’ve already observed in our customer service and manufacturing efficiency and we’re equally excited about the long-term prospects for growth and innovation,” shared Shouldice Stone CEO Chris Pedersen. “We are also pleased to announce that we will be making substantial investments in our manufacturing facilities over the coming months, supported by the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, which will help create new jobs and further bolster the manufacturing sector in Ontario. Our team is enthusiastic about this significant transformation, and we look forward to achieving new heights together. It’s a pleasure to celebrate this milestone with our valued partners.”