Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI)

DRYDEN, ON – October 26, 2026

The City of Dryden is pleased to announce that our 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.

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 Dryden 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.

“This announcement is welcome news and reflects the strength of the partnerships across Northwestern Ontario and our shared commitment to addressing workforce challenges,” says Mayor Jack Harrison. “For Dryden and communities throughout the region, attracting and retaining skilled newcomers will help support local employers while welcoming new residents who can build their futures and contribute to the vitality of our communities.”

This initiative aligns well with Dryden’s strategic priorities around workforce development, regional partnership, and planned growth. As a regional hub, Dryden recognizes the importance of working collaboratively across Northwestern Ontario to help employers address workforce challenges, support business expansion, and create long-term opportunities for both newcomers and the communities they choose to call home.

Employers and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to visit Ontario’s REDI initiative webpage for more information about the program, participating communities, employer supports, and how the initiative helps address regional workforce needs through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. The page also outlines how REDI supports the attraction and retention of skilled workers in communities such as those in the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.

Media Contact:
Roger Nesbitt, Chief Administrative Officer
City of Dryden
Email: rnesbitt@dryden.ca