Planning and Development (7)
Business Opportunities
The Township of Ignace has recently commissioned the competition of a Business Gap Analysis. KMPG, a reputable financial firm, was contracted to assist the Township with this initiative. The proposed project focuses energy and actions toward providing economic development opportunities through the identification of viable business opportunities to the Township of Ignace. Each potential opportunity was identified and developed as a result of KPMG’s environmental scan of the community in conjunction with the results of the community consultations.
Township of Ignace Business Gap Analysis
Housing – The potential development of Seniors Housing within the Township
In consultation with the community and as part of an environmental scan of the municipality, the current housing stock of the Township does not appear to include any senior housing. As a result, if a resident desires seniors housing, they are required to choose other communities in the Kenora District who have this type of housing opposed to being able to remain in the community with their social network.
The demographics of the Township appear to resemble those of other municipalities across Ontario whereas a larger proportion of Ontario’s residents are considered to be seniors. Based on the last Census, 23% of the Township’s population was 65 years or older and 31% of the population was between the ages of 50 to 64 years old. As this population shift continues, the needs of these residents will change.
Additionally, it appears the demand for housing is high in the District according to the Kenora District Services Board and depending on what type of unit is being sought, an applicant may be on a waiting list for months if not years.
Housing and Tourism – The potential development of the Township’s waterfront
The Township continues to explore the potential of developing waterfront properties for residential/seasonal housing.
The Township’s waterfront, beyond any potential for housing development, may be positioned for business development including the potential for a marina for both residents but also as part of a larger investment to attract tourism and other recreational activities.
Retail – The potential attraction of businesses to the community
As the Township positions itself for growth and development the potential for increased business investment is justifiable. This potential is linked to the Township's pursuit of the used nuclear fuel repository, the promotion of Highway 599 as the best route to the Ring of Fire development, the community's untapped tourism potential and the fact that Ignace is centrally located along the Trans-Canada Highway, allowing for easy access to larger markets. Additionally, based upon a scan of the current composition of local business as well as stakeholder consultations, the Township appears to be in need of more retail.
Download the detailed Business Gap Analysis to explore all of the viable business opportunities and possibilities. It is imperative to note that the opportunities are not limited to those identified within the Business Gap Analysis. We are happy to work with you one-on-one to ensure the full realization of your business goals.
The Township recognizes the need for investment and as a result, has established and adopted an innovative and comprehensive Community Improvement Plan with the necessary tools and financial incentive programs to encourage investment within the community.
Download the Community Improvement Plan for a greater appreciation of the various business incentives available to YOU.
Major Initiatives
Comprehensive Community Investment Readiness and Capacity Building Master Plan
The Town’s clear mandate is to complete an innovative, extensive and comprehensive Community Investment Readiness and Capacity Building Master Plan. Recognizing the importance of Vision and Long-Term Planning, moving in this direction through a Master Plan exercise, will take the community beyond a short-term thinking approach to one that is long term and comprehensive.
The Master Plan which includes eleven (11) economic development projects, is designed to take the Community to the next level of Long Term Community Growth and Sustainability. By building the right capacity to accommodate the right type of investment, the community is positioning itself for growth and development. Given the progressive decline in population and business activities in the community and the fact that the community still faces pressures that challenge its long-term sustainability, the continued ability of the Town to grow and develop with the hope of becoming a vibrant community necessitates on the planning and implementation of the proposed Master Plan.
The urgency and critical need to become investment ready by building the right capacity is further justified by two extensive regional economic development projects that are currently being developed; these being the ‘Ring of Fire’ development and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) used nuclear fuel. The community is now promoting Highway 599 as the best route to the ‘Ring of Fire’ mineral wealth in the far north. The Township is also a prime candidate in the site selection process for a deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel.
The Township of Ignace believes that if these projects (Ring of Fire and geological repository) materialize, Ignace is going to boom in years to come because of the 5000 plus jobs that will be directly created, not withstanding the indirect job creation. That is why we are being proactive by anticipating these changes and putting plans in place to ensure the community is investment ready to respond and capitalize on the proceeds that would result from these developments. Even in the absence of these future projects (Ring of Fire and geological repository) Ignace has the potential to become a thriving community given our strategic location, natural features and assets. The Master Plan has been designed to allow for growth and development to take place in Ignace with or without these regional projects.
For more information on the specific projects with the Master Plan, contact the economic development department; staff is ready and available to answer all of your questions.
Welcome to Ignace
Situated on the shores of Agimak Lake, the Township of Ignace is a gateway to the remote rivers, lakes, waterfalls and forests that surround it. There are two white sand beaches on Agimak Lake — Agimak Beach and West Beach, the the latter having a floating dock that provides an enclosed area for swimmers. During the summer months, there is an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy, while in the colder months, the Township of Ignace transforms itself into a winter playground. Residents love to ski, snowshoe, ice fish and the Ignace Otters Snowmobile Club sponsors special events on the trail network.
Ignace is the perfect place to raise a young family or settle in for life's golden years. New residents have come to Ignace to work in our private and public sectors, to enjoy an active retirement, to explore job opportunities in tourism or to open small businesses. Our small town is a rich fusion of cultures where people from varied nationalities and backgrounds shore their heritage.
Ignace blends small town comforts and neighbourly folks who are always ready to lend a helping hand. We take pride in our northern hospitality combined with a wide range of conveniences and services that wer have to offer. The beauty of the northern landscape surrounding a progressive and modern community makes Ignace a truly great place to live, work and play. The splendor of the stars in the clear night sky defines the spirit of the north, reflecting our spacious and abundant terrain.
We welcome you to explore our possibilities!
Development Charges
Business By-Laws
The Township of Ignace is in the process of reviewing its Business By-Laws. A new Business By-Law with the goal to help foster a supportive business climate will be established before the end of 2018.
Applications, Licenses and Permits
A business is defined under Business License By-Law 43/2000 as any business, occupation, activity, amusement, entertainment, trade employment, profession or calling and the provision of a service of any kind that is conducted for the purpose of earning income, whether or not it is conducted for the purpose of earning a profit.
The Township of Ignace fosters a safe and healthy business practice and requires businesses to hold a valid Master Business License when conducting business within the province of Ontario.