Eastern Ontario Development Fund — Business project grants

For established businesses in eastern Ontario that are ready to scale, modernize, or enter new markets, the Eastern Ontario Development Fund — Business project grants can help make large growth plans more achievable. This program is geared toward companies planning significant, one-time investments that go beyond day-to-day operations, such as expanding production capacity, adopting new technologies, or building the skills needed to compete nationally or internationally. The focus is on projects that strengthen productivity and create meaningful, long-term jobs in the region.

Delivered by Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, the fund supports business projects across eastern Ontario, including communities like Ottawa, Peterborough, Lanark, Renfrew, and Prince Edward County. Funding support can reach into the seven-figure range, with assistance typically covering a portion of eligible project costs. Support is often structured as partially repayable funding, with the potential for some forgiveness when job creation and investment commitments are met, making it especially attractive for capital-intensive expansion projects.

This opportunity is best suited for small, medium-sized, and larger employers with a solid operating history who are prepared to make a substantial investment and demonstrate broader economic benefits for the region. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, and projects are assessed on their economic impact and readiness to proceed. Businesses considering a major expansion or transformation in eastern Ontario may want to explore the full program details to see how this funding could support their next phase of growth.