Kenora Selected for Immigration Initiative to Support Workforce Development

The City of Kenora is pleased to announce that the region has been selected to participate in the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) initiative, a provincial program designed to help communities address labour shortages by attracting skilled foreign workers and supporting pathways to permanent residency.

Led by Confederation College, the successful application brought together municipalities, economic development organizations, workforce development partners, employers, Indigenous communities, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and community partners from across the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.

In September, Kenora City Council supported the regional submission, recognizing the opportunity to strengthen workforce development efforts and support long-term economic growth throughout the region.

On October 16, regional partners were notified that the application had been successful. The region was selected as one of only five successful applicants across Ontario, securing a place in a highly competitive initiative with a limited number of opportunities available to communities. The selection recognizes the strength of the regional partnership and a shared commitment to addressing workforce challenges through innovative economic development strategies.

“Addressing workforce needs in Northwestern Ontario takes strong regional partnerships,” said Michelle Salo, President of Confederation College. “We’re proud to have worked alongside the City of Kenora and partners across the Kenora and Rainy River districts on this application. Through REDI, we can help employers connect with skilled workers while creating opportunities for newcomers to build careers and make their homes in our communities.”

The REDI initiative is a partnership between the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development’s Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and participating communities across Ontario. The initiative aims to attract and retain skilled workers in regional communities by leveraging the OINP to address critical workforce needs that cannot be met through the local labour market.

"We are thrilled that Kenora has been selected to participate in the REDI initiative. This was a competitive opportunity, and being chosen reflects the strength of the partnerships that exist across our region," shares Mayor Andrew Poirier. “Immigration initiatives play an important role in addressing workforce needs, supporting local businesses, and contributing to sustainable economic growth."

Participation in REDI aligns with the City's ongoing efforts to support workforce development across multiple sectors while helping employers address ongoing recruitment challenges. The initiative recognizes the important role immigration can play in supporting economic growth, business expansion, and long-term community prosperity.

As part of the initiative, employers are invited to attend an upcoming information session to learn more about immigration pathways and programs that can support workforce recruitment and retention efforts.

"Many employers across our region continue to face challenges filling key positions," says Allyson Pele, Economic Development Officer. "This session is an opportunity to better understand the immigration programs available to employers and how they can be leveraged to attract and retain skilled talent. We encourage businesses to attend and learn more about the tools and resources available through this initiative."

Immigration Pathways for Employers: Understanding Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and Federal Programs

Date: November 5, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

This session will provide regional employers with an overview of temporary and permanent immigration pathways and programs that support hiring skilled foreign workers, with a focus on the new Ontario Workforce Priority stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Presentations from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and the OINP will highlight relevant programs and eligibility requirements and encourage participants to liaise with IRCC’s Dedicated Services Channel and OINP’s dedicated Business services for employers.

Interested employers are encouraged to register and attend to learn how immigration programs can support workforce recruitment and retention efforts.

Register now for this in-person event or contact Allyson Pele for more information.