At the turn of the 20th century, many people thought of Northern Ontario as an isolated frontier, valuable for its natural resources. At that time, the area's resources were providing about 25 percent of Ontario's revenues.

The Northern Development Division helps Northern Ontario develop its economy. The division delivers a variety of government programs and services.

The Mines and Minerals Division works to support responsible land use management and mineral resource development by administration of the Mining Act, providing public geoscience information and client services.

Our Forestry Division provides leadership on forest products industry sector revitalization and transformation initiatives and acts as an advocate for business and economic functions within the forest industry.