This morning Invest Ottawa had the pleasure of hosting the Honourable Bob Chiarelli, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, MPP Yasir Naqvi and Mayor Jim Watson for the announcement of additional funding for the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) and the expansion of the program’s boundaries to include urban and suburban Ottawa.

This is great news for Ottawa’s entrepreneurs. EODF is a program, targeted at businesses, designed to help companies: introduce new technologies; pursue growth in new markets; and improve their competitive position. Thus creating and retaining jobs in Ontario and helping to diversify our economy. Clearly it is a program with goals that are closely aligned to Invest Ottawa’s and we are delighted that the provincial government has recognized the need to provide financial support to the city’s startup community.

We’d like to commend the provincial government for designating additional funding for the program, and congratulate Ottawa Centre MPP Yasir Naqvi for his persistence in advocating for the change in boundaries. Invest Ottawa and the Mayor’s office have been strong supporters of MPP Naqvi’s efforts and it is rewarding to see how working together we have helped bring this project to a successful resolution.

Next step, spread the word on EODF.

Today’s announcement (part 1):

Today’s announcement (part 2):