Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, announced that FedNor is investing $595,400 to support three technology and AI-driven initiatives in Northern Ontario. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor, reflecting the federal government’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth in the region.
Through FedNor’s Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation Fund (REGI), a repayable investment of $500,000 will enable CircuitIQ to complete the late-stage development and commercialization of its Live Powerline Mapping Tool (LPMT). The LPMT is designed to modernize electrical systems in critical facilities, including hospitals, utility stations, and transportation networks. The technology generates detailed circuit directories, labels devices, maps panels, and provides safety reports, allowing technicians to quickly identify issues and create simple single-line diagrams for maintenance and upgrades. This improves safety, reduces errors, and minimizes downtime for complex electrical systems.
Waive is receiving a repayable contribution of $67,200 to develop and commercialize an AI-driven automated form-filling tool aimed at improving healthcare productivity. The system will leverage patient history from electronic medical records to complete forms such as disability tax claims, WSIB submissions, and diagnostic referrals. Funded through the Government of Canada’s Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative for Northern Ontario, this project is expected to enhance healthcare efficiency, create jobs, and bring new AI-driven solutions to the market.
The Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation will receive $28,200 in non-repayable funding through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP) to develop and implement an AI strategic plan. This initiative will provide AI training and assist over 50 First Nation communities in adopting AI frameworks, improving operational efficiency, and accelerating economic growth across Indigenous communities in the region.
Federal officials emphasized that these investments strengthen Northern Ontario’s technological and economic capacity. Minister Patty Hajdu highlighted the importance of collaboration in preparing the region for future economic opportunities. MP Viviane Lapointe noted that the projects would protect critical facilities, enhance healthcare productivity, and support Indigenous communities in leveraging AI for operational improvements.
Leaders from the participating organizations also underscored the impact of the funding. CircuitIQ CEO Luke Begley highlighted the market potential of the LPMT for critical infrastructure. Waive COO Tabassum Pasha emphasized the productivity gains for healthcare systems through AI automation, while Melanie Debassige, Executive Director of OFNTSC, highlighted the value of responsible AI governance for First Nations communities.
The funding is provided through FedNor’s NODP, REGI, and Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative for Northern Ontario, supporting business growth, technology adoption, and market expansion in alignment with the Government of Canada’s Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario.
