Southwestern Ontario Development Fund — Business project loans

For established businesses in southwestern Ontario planning a major expansion, new facility, or productivity upgrade, access to large-scale capital can be the difference between delaying growth and moving ahead with confidence. The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund — Business project loans are designed for companies ready to make significant investments that strengthen their operations while creating long-term jobs in the region. This support is delivered by Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade and focuses on projects that go beyond day-to-day operations.

The program is best suited to growing small and mid-sized companies, as well as larger enterprises, that are planning substantial projects such as scaling production, adopting advanced technologies, entering new markets, or investing in innovation and workforce development. Funding is typically provided as an interest-free loan during the project period, with financing that can reach up to $5 million depending on the size and impact of the project. Companies that meet their investment and job creation commitments may have a portion of the loan forgiven, reducing the overall cost of expansion. Projects must deliver clear economic benefits, including new, sustainable jobs and broader regional impact across southwestern Ontario communities.

Because this fund targets transformative investments and has specific regional and project requirements, it’s important to understand how your growth plans align before applying. Exploring the full program details through GrantHub can help you determine whether this financing opportunity fits your business’s next stage.