Over 250 businesses to benefit from new programming in Kingston and Prescott-Russell

February 19, 2025 – Kingston, Ontario

Eastern Ontario is a leader in research and development, fueling innovation across industries. As a key part of Canada’s economic success, the Government of Canada is investing in the life sciences sector and the organizations that support them as well as our local businesses in regions across the country to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed now and in the future.

Today, the Honourable Ruby Sahota, Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), met with the team from Kingston Economic Development Corporation, to learn about how they are boosting the local economy and fostering new innovation for life sciences companies.

To support these efforts, Minister Sahota announced an investment of $3.4 million for Kingston Economic Development Corporation to put in place the supports and critical assets life sciences companies need as they commercialize and scale-up. The organization will offer the Kingston Life Sciences and Helix Funding initiatives, as well as establish a new wet lab space at Providence Care Hospital. 

With targeted programming to support life sciences entrepreneurs and by filling a regional need for wet lab space, Kingston Economic Development will help local innovators boost their capabilities to meet the increasing demand for medical products that will help create a healthier future for everyone. This project is expected to support over 100 businesses.

Minister Sahota also announced nearly $400,000 for le Centre de services à l’emploi de Prescott-Russell Inc. (CSEPR) in Hawkesbury to expand its services for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region. The project will support up to 150 SMEs to attract and retain newcomer Francophone or bilingual workers to support their business growth.

Organizations that equip our businesses with essential tools and resources are not only ensuring their long-term success but also are contributing to the prosperity of Canada. The Government of Canada is committed to strengthening these organizations, recognizing their critical role in supporting our businesses, empowering Canadians, and building a resilient economy for the future.