October 12, 2010

ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO – The Government of Canada is helping create jobs and boost tourism in Elgin County. The investment of up to $250,000 was announced today by Member of Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London Joe Preston, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, to enable the Railway City Brewery expand their product line.

“By providing capital to small and medium sized businesses, like the Railway City Brewery, our Government is stimulating local businesses across Canada,” said MP Preston. “This investment will help Railway City Brewery expand their company, supporting local growers, creating jobs, and boosting tourism in the region.” 

Railway City Brewery will use the funding to support research and development into expanding their product line and ensure their packaging is as recyclable as possible. A marketing campaign will also be started to create brand awareness and promote the brewery as a tourism destination. The company will collaborate with community groups and co-host two to three major events over the next two years which will help bring exposure to both the brewery and the communities holding the events. The brewery will purchase materials from local agri-businesses, helping to boost the economy in the region. This expansion will create three full-time and three part-time jobs.

This capital is being provided through the Sand Plains Community Development Fund administered by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations. The fund targets community-based initiatives that support regional development, attract and retain people and investment, and stimulate business development and job creation. 

For more information on the Sand Plains Community Development Fund, please visit www.ontcfdc.com or www.sandplains.ca.