Friday, May 9, 2025 – Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) and Tourism Thunder Bay are pleased to provide $500,000 in funding support to the Thunder Bay Multi-Use Indoor Turf Facility from the CEDC Tourism Development Fund.

“The Thunder Bay CEDC is proud to support this important initiative for our community,” says Jamie Taylor, CEO of the Thunder Bay CEDC. “Facilities like this enhance quality of life for residents and experiences for visitors. The turf facility will play a key role in attracting tourists and major sporting events while retaining skilled talent in Thunder Bay.”

The new multi-use indoor turf facility will provide Thunder Bay with year-round opportunities for sport and recreation groups such as soccer, cricket, lacrosse, frisbee, football, and more. It has been estimated that there are currently over 5,000 turf users amongst these groups, with demand increasing annually as popularity continues to grow in these sports.

Soccer Northwest has led, in partnerships with their multi-use sport user sub-committee, pursing the CEDC Tourism Development Funding.

“For our sports group community this facility represents more than just a place to play.” states Michael Veneziale, President of Soccer Northwest “It’s a space where athletes, families, and community members can connect year-round. It opens the door to hosting tournaments and events that not only energize our sports scene but also boost Thunder Bay’s local economy and strengthen community ties. We’re proud to be part of this milestone and excited for what comes next.”

Applicants of the CEDC Tourism Development Fund are encouraged to leverage partnerships and additional financial resources to maximize the growth of Thunder Bay’s tourism economy. The City of Thunder Bay has contributed substantial resources to the project, with Soccer Northwest undertaking continued fundraising efforts.

“Sport event hosting is a significant economic contributor to Thunder Bay’s tourism economy and infrastructure that can expand sport hosting capacity supports community growth.” states Paul Pepe, Manager, Tourism Thunder Bay “The multi-use indoor turf facility, championed by so many local user groups working together, will improve opportunities to draw more regional and provincial events that rely on indoor turf and grow our winter tourism offerings.”

The facility will be an addition to the property surrounding the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium and will be completed by fall of 2026.