Ontario Investing More Than $360,000 to Help Local Company Enhance Services
February 20, 2026
Funding will support roadway maintenance in Algoma-Manitoulin District
News
CHAPLEAU — The Ontario government is investing $360,507 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support Superior Aggregates with the purchase of two new highway maintenance vehicles. As part of the government’s plan to build a stronger, more resilient Northern Ontario and ensure the safer movement of people and goods throughout the winter months, this investment will help the company improve operations, upgrade equipment and expand services.
“Regular maintenance of our roadways is essential to the success of our local communities, which is why our government continues to support projects like this across Northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “By helping Superior Aggregates purchase new plows, we are enabling them to upgrade their operations and remain competitive.”
Superior Aggregates is a quarry and harbour operation in Michipicoten Harbour that also provides highway maintenance services. With the NOHFC’s support, the company purchased two new plow trucks to provide winter maintenance services for highways, successfully expanding its operation. Increasing its equipment fleet helps deliver more highway maintenance services during the winter and safe travel conditions for motorists travelling through the area.
“We’re proud to support this investment in modern snow clearing equipment for northern communities,” said Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Bill Rosenberg. “This funding will help keep roads safe and accessible, support economic activity and provide peace of mind to residents and all travellers during winter weather events.”
“This grant from the NOHFC on behalf of the Ontario government will assist Superior Aggregates Corporation in keeping highways clear around Missanabie Cree’s territory,” said Mark Rainone, Operations Manager at Superior Aggregates Corporation. “We will purchase necessary equipment to plow and sand the highways. With this grant, we will establish jobs for up to eight Indigenous staff.”
The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.
Thank you to Minister George Pirie and Frank Shunock of Superior Aggregates (pictured below with MPP Rosenberg and Chapleau Mayor Ryan Bignucolo) for coming to Chapleau for this announcement.
Quick Facts
· Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.
Additional Resources