INVEST North Program — Investment — Grow Stream

Expanding an established business in Northern Ontario often requires significant capital, especially when growth plans involve new facilities, major equipment purchases, or technology upgrades. The INVEST North Program — Investment — Grow Stream is designed for small and medium-sized businesses that are ready to scale their existing operations and need support to make those investments more achievable. Delivered by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation on behalf of the Government of Ontario, this program focuses on strengthening business capacity and long-term economic growth across the region.

Through the Grow Stream, businesses can access a mix of repayable financing and conditional contributions that typically cover a portion of eligible project costs, with total support reaching up to around $1 million depending on the structure of the deal. Funding is commonly used for capital-intensive projects such as constructing or improving facilities, upgrading leased spaces, purchasing new or used equipment, investing in IT and communications systems, or developing land tied to business expansion. Limited support may also be available for activities like launching new products or third-party training when they are part of a broader growth project.

Applications are reviewed through competitive intake rounds, and funding decisions are made based on the strength and impact of the proposed expansion. For Northern Ontario businesses planning their next stage of growth, learning more about how this program works can help determine whether it fits your investment strategy.