Administered by Government of Ontario · Last verified: July 2026
An Ontario program (the successor to the Rural Economic Development program) that funds projects strengthening rural economies. Small brick-and-mortar businesses with 1 to 20 employees can apply to the business development stream for up to 35% cost-share to a maximum of $10,000. Larger funding streams up to $250,000 are available to municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profits for economic development and infrastructure projects. Projects must be located in an eligible rural area of Ontario.
Review times vary by program, from a few weeks to a few months, so check the official page for its timeline. Grant money is usually paid after you sign a funding agreement, and cost-shared programs often reimburse you once you send proof of what you spent.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityRural Ontario Development (ROD) Program is generally open to incorporated, self-employed, partnership businesses, in Ontario, in Retail & E-commerce, Food & Beverage, Professional Services, Other, with at least 1 employees, with up to 20 employees. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is Businesses: up to $10,000 (35% cost-share); community streams up to $250,000. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
1. Confirm your location on the rural and urban areas map 2. Read the business development guidelines 3. Complete the application form 4. Email your application to RODprogram@ontario.ca before the intake deadline
Intake 3: October 1, 2026; Intake 4: February 25, 2027.
50% of costs up to $12,500, plus up to $2,500 for accessibility upgrades and bonuses for multi-unit properties
GRANT50% of costs up to a $20,000 base grant, plus up to $4,000 for accessibility upgrades and more for multi-unit properties
GRANTUp to $200,000 (up to 50% of eligible costs)