Recognizing the North’s uniqueness, the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines' Regional Economic Development Branch has established an integrated network of area teams to serve as the focal point for economic development in Northern Ontario. The North has been divided into six service areas around the following centres: Kenora, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, Sudbury and North Bay.

Working together, area teams deliver the province’s economic and social development programs and services in the North. In addition, area teams gather northern perspectives and input on provincial policy and program development. Area teams also promote trade and investment marketing opportunities by highlighting the North’s competitive advantages at national and international trade shows and conventions.

With expertise in key economic sector, including tourism, mining, forest products, agriculture, business/industry and aboriginal economic development, as well as community development and health/social, area teams support the development of a healthy, competitive and sustainable northern economy.