Wakenagun receives funding for another year

Wakenagun Community Futures Development Corporation will be able to provide its services to the James Bay region for another year.

On Jan. 22, FedNor announced it will commit $320,000 to support the ongoing operations of the Wakenagun, an organization that provides small and medium-sized enterprises with access to capital and business counselling services, as well as supporting regional community economic development and planning activities.

Wakenagun is based in Moose Factory and serves the James and Hudson Bay communities, including Fort Severn, Peawanuck, Attawapiskat, Kashechewan, Fort Albany, Moosonee, Taykwa Tagamou, Chapleau Cree, and Missanabie Cree.

It has previously provided business loans to entrepreneurs within the communities for ventures such as bed and breakfast lodgings and the Cree Village Eco Lodge in Moose Factory.

“We are proud to work in partnership with the government of Canada and FedNor to create employment and support business development and growth in the James Bay region,” said Bill Cachagee, chair of the Wakenagun, in a press release. “Today’s announcement will ensure entrepreneurs and businesses throughout the area continue to have access to the resources they need to be successful.”

Wakenagun is one of 24 community futures development corporations (CFDC) funded by FedNor to serve northern Ontario businesses and communities. CFDCs are community-based, not-for-profit organizations run by volunteer boards and staffed by experienced business and economic development professionals.