If you run a small business in Ontario, grants can lower your costs without adding debt. In 2025–2026, Ontario businesses can access provincial programs, federal funding delivered in Ontario, and local grants worth anywhere from $5,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars for growth, hiring, innovation, and startup costs. Programs like Starter Company Plus and FedDev Ontario funding are among the most commonly used.
Below is a clear, up-to-date breakdown of Ontario grants for small business, who they’re for, and how much funding you can expect.
Ontario does not offer one single “small business grant.” Instead, funding comes from multiple programs, each with a specific goal, industry, or business stage.
Starter Company Plus is one of the most accessible Ontario small business grants for entrepreneurs.
Funding details
Who’s eligible
What the funding can be used for
Delivery is local. For example, Invest Ottawa and City of Toronto administer the program regionally, with training and mentorship included.
FedDev Ontario is a federal agency that delivers major business grants and contributions to companies in Southern Ontario.
Funding details
Who’s eligible
Eligible project costs
FedDev programs are competitive and project-based. Approval depends heavily on economic impact and job creation.
The Business Benefits Finder is not a grant itself, but it is an official government tool that connects Ontario businesses to grants, loans, and tax credits.
What it includes
It’s often used to uncover lesser-known Ontario small business grants, especially sector-specific funding.
Most Ontario grants share a few common rules:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Ontario grants by industry, location, and business stage in seconds.
Assuming all grants are for startups
Many Ontario grants are for existing businesses with revenue and staff, especially FedDev programs.
Missing regional delivery rules
Programs like Starter Company Plus are run locally. Applying to the wrong office can disqualify you.
Ignoring cost-sharing requirements
Most Ontario grants require you to invest your own money alongside the funding.
Waiting until intake closes
Competitive Ontario grants often close early once funding is allocated.
Q: Are there Ontario grants for small business startups?
Yes. Starter Company Plus is the most common option, offering up to $5,000 for eligible entrepreneurs.
Q: Can I apply for multiple Ontario small business grants?
Yes, as long as the programs allow stacking and the same costs are not funded twice.
Q: Do Ontario grants need to be repaid?
True grants do not. Some FedDev Ontario programs include repayable portions, depending on the stream.
Q: Are home-based businesses eligible?
Often yes, especially for startup grants, as long as the business is legally registered and operating in Ontario.
Q: How competitive are Ontario small business grants?
Highly competitive. Strong business plans, clear budgets, and economic impact improve approval odds.
GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile.
If you’re exploring Ontario grants for small business, you may also find these helpful:
Ontario grants can cover startup costs, expansion projects, and innovation — but only if you apply to the right programs. With funding spread across provincial, federal, and local agencies, visibility is the real challenge. GrantHub helps Ontario business owners see which grants fit their location, industry, and growth plans — all in one place.
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