Friday, January 9, 2026
The Government of Canada announced a FedNor (Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario) investment of $233,100 to support the development of a public access port in Sault Ste. Marie.
“Canada’s economic strength relies on modern, reliable infrastructure. That’s why we’re investing in projects like the Sault Ste. Marie deep-water port development, meeting immediate transportation needs while building the systems that move Canadian goods across the country. These investments protect our supply chains, and build a resilient, self-sufficient economy with lasting opportunities for Canadians,” said Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
The City of Sault Ste. Marie is receiving FedNor funds to complete technical assessments as well as a comprehensive port development plan necessary to facilitate the redevelopment and expansion of a public access marine port. The project will strategically enhance existing port infrastructure to accommodate the rising demand for inbound and outbound goods and resource-based commodities among key industrial users in the Sault Ste. Marie regional area.
“This project has the potential not only to create new economic opportunities for Sault Ste. Marie, but also to strengthen the local economy’s resilience. Last year, Transport Canada invested $405,300 in this very initiative, and today’s support builds on that progress. A diverse economy is essential for supporting communities, enabling them to adapt and thrive as circumstances and demands change. The people of Sault Ste. Marie are hard-working, and projects like this will help provide them with more ways to contribute to and grow the community we all care about,” said Terry Sheehan, MP for Sault Ste. Marie.
Development of a public access port will help expand economic opportunities for the region by enhancing transportation capacity and infrastructure for regional critical minerals, biofuels, forest bioproducts, advanced manufacturing, and other potential economic development opportunities. Additionally, efforts will be made to build capacity among Canadian vessel operators, develop a governance model for port operations, and create a comprehensive port development plan to ensure the project’s long-term success.
By modernizing infrastructure and providing public access, the initiative will help diversify the regional economy, strengthen supply chains, and position Sault Ste. Marie as a key hub for sustainable development in Northern Ontario.
“As the federal government undertakes major nation-building projects, the timing for the Port of Algoma’s development could not be better. The project represents the opportunity for an important step toward a stronger and more diverse local economy, and we’re grateful for the support of FedNor,” said Matthew Shoemaker, Mayor, City of Sault Ste. Marie.
Featured image: (L to R) Robert Burns, Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce CEO; MP Terry Sheehan; La-Na Fragomeni, Chamber president. (Government of Canada)
