The Ontario government is now accepting applications for the new Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program, aimed at protecting jobs and growing the economy in rural communities.
The Ministry of Rural Affairs announced the launch this week, following a $20-million funding commitment over two years. The expanded program is designed to help municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit groups, and small businesses across rural Ontario attract investment, create new jobs, and upgrade infrastructure.
“Our government has doubled its investment in the Rural Ontario Development program to drive economic growth and increase the workforce across rural Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs.
Applications will be accepted under four funding streams: Economic Diversification and Competitiveness, Workforce Development and Retention, Community Infrastructure Enhancements, and Business Development. Projects may include anything from cyber security upgrades to public space improvements or market expansion strategies.
Local leaders are praising the saying targeted investments like this are “vital for strengthening the heart of our rural communities.”
Applications for the first intake of the program are open until September 24, 2025, at 5 p.m.
Since 2019, Ontario says $27.5 million has been invested in more than 470 rural projects under the previous Rural Economic Development program. The revamped ROD initiative is a central part of Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
