The provincial government is investing $500,000 into an aboriginal commercial centre in northwestern New Brunswick.

The money will help stimulate growth and development of the Grey Rock Power Centre, located on the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation, just off of the Trans-Canada Highway, Social Development Minister Madeleine Dubé said in a statement.

"This strategic infrastructure investment will create jobs and foster growth throughout the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation and the Edmundston region," said Dubé, who was speaking on behalf of Economic Development Minister Paul Robichaud.

Madawaska Maliseet First Nation Chief Joanna Bernard agrees.

"I am hopeful for a wonderful future for my First Nation," she said.

The Grey Rock Power Centre is a $13 million project.

Business plan projections have suggested the 28-hectare centre will generate $320 million in sales, tax revenues, business start-ups and employment in its first eight years.

As it stands, there are few retail and hospitality options along the highway for travellers between the Quebec border with New Brunswick and Woodstock.

Grey Rock is expected to host a wide range of businesses, from big box retail stores to a hotel.

The provincial funding will be provided through the Northern New Brunswick Economic Development and Innovation Fund.

The federal government has also assisted with the project.