
About Us
Providing local solutions for local economies
What we do!
North Claybelt is a community-based agency offering financial and counselling assistance for new and existing small businesses in our area of Northeastern Ontario, Canada. To attain its objectives of creating and maintaining jobs and contributing to the economic development of the area, North Claybelt provides local businesses with information, consulting assistance, loans, loan guarantees, and equity investment. We are also involved in numerous economic development initiatives, including Head Start in Business and Northeast Community Network
How We Invest in Our Communities
$28,552,387
Dollars invested since inception
479
Businesses who were
provided with financing
4,926
Jobs created or maintained
$159,775,424
Dollars leveraged since inception
Our Team
The experienced staff at North Claybelt understands small business and the local marketplace. They offer their expertise to guide existing and aspiring entrepreneurs through the steps to owning and operating their own business in Northern Ontario.
Trista Larochelle
Executive Director
Trista Larochelle is the Executive Director of North Claybelt Community Futures Development Corporation, where she leads initiatives that support entrepreneurship, small business growth, and regional economic development across Northern Ontario.
Trista has worked within the CFDC network in various roles, including Program Manager for Head Start in Business and Business Advisor at North Claybelt CFDC. Through these positions, she has gained extensive experience supporting entrepreneurs at all stages of their business journey, from idea development to growth and expansion.
She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs succeed and brings an energetic, hands-on approach to her work. Trista enjoys problem solving and thrives on finding practical, creative solutions that help clients and communities move forward.
Committed to fostering collaboration, Trista works closely with partners, stakeholders, and community organizations to strengthen the regional economy and support sustainable development across the North.
Mary Jane Sonier
Financial Services Officer
Mary Jane is a dedicated financial professional with a long-standing career in the not-for-profit sector. She brings extensive experience in financial management, including reporting, payroll, reconciliations, and day-to-day banking operations.
Known for her accuracy, reliability, and deep understanding of organizational finances, Mary Jane plays a critical role in ensuring financial processes run smoothly and efficiently. From managing accounts to supporting compliance and reporting requirements, she is a trusted resource within the organization.
Mary Jane’s commitment and attention to detail make her an invaluable member of the team—someone the organization truly couldn’t operate without.
Eric Bizier
Business Advisor
Eric Bizer is a Business Advisor with North Claybelt Community Futures Development Corporation, bringing a strong background in supporting commercial client profiles and delivering client-focused solutions.
New to the CFDC network, Eric offers a diverse professional background that includes experience in municipal governance and commercial insurance. This combination provides him with a well-rounded understanding of business operations, risk management, and the regulatory environment.
Eric holds a diploma in Business Administration and is recognized for his strong customer service skills and commitment to building meaningful relationships with clients. He takes a practical, solutions-oriented approach and is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges and achieve their business goals.
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Board of Directors
North Claybelt is administered by a Board of local civic, professional and business volunteers.
Cathy Ellis President Iroquois Falls
Claude Babin Vice President Moonbeam
Paul Nadeau Treasurer Kapuskasing
Denis Dorval Director Opasatika/ Val-Rita / Harty
Devon Prevost Director Cochrane
Patrice Lambert Director Kapuskasing
Kevin Somer Director Smooth Rock Falls
Laurie Robinson Director Fauquier / Strickland
Address
50 A McPherson Avenue
P.O. Box 24
Kapuskasing, ON P5N 2Y1
Phone
705-337-1407
1-888-289-4233
