Small Business Grants in Ontario

Securing a small business grant in Ontario involves identifying the right opportunities, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing a compelling application. Whether you are a startup or an established business, there are various grants and funding programs available to help expand operations, innovate, and achieve your goals. Here are some of the top small business grant opportunities in Ontario:

Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Programs

The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development offers several funding and support programs for small businesses across the province. Key programs include:

  • Ontario Innovation Tax Credit (OITC): This program helps businesses engaged in innovative work by offering tax credits based on eligible research and development activities.

Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI)

Ontario Centres of Innovation (OCI) supports business innovation by offering grants and funding programs aimed at helping businesses bring innovative products and services to market. Key programs include:

  • The SmartStart Seed Fund: Designed for early-stage technology companies, this program offers funding to help bring innovative products from the idea stage to commercialization.
  • TalentEdge Program: This initiative connects businesses with skilled talent by funding projects that involve students, recent graduates, and interns, enabling access to fresh perspectives and expertise.

The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) Grants

The Ontario Arts Council provides grants to support small businesses in the arts, culture, and creative industries. This agency offers funding programs tailored to cultural entrepreneurs in areas such as book and magazine publishing, film and television production, sound recording, and interactive digital media content production.

Canadian Government Grants: FedDev Ontario

FedDev Ontario (Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario) offers funding for small businesses in southern Ontario through initiatives like:

  • The Business Scale-up and Productivity Program: This program provides funding to businesses looking to scale up operations, increase productivity, or adopt new technologies. Eligible businesses can receive funding of up to 35% of project costs, with a maximum of $10 million per project.
  • The Regional Development Program: Aimed at businesses in Southern Ontario, this program supports the development of new projects and services that can have a positive economic impact on the region.

Ontario’s Small Business Access Program

The Small Business Access Program helps small businesses access funding, information, and other services. It provides financial support to help businesses navigate government programs, from grants to advisory services.

Women’s Economic Security Program (WASP)

Ontario supports women entrepreneurs through the Women’s Economic Security Program (WESP). This initiative provides funding to women-owned businesses, offering grants and support to help scale operations, drive innovation, and create employment opportunities across the province.

Indigenous Entrepreneur Grants

The Ontario government offers a range of financial support for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Through the Indigenous Business Initiative and other programs, grants and loans are available to help Indigenous business owners grow their ventures, with a focus on promoting cultural heritage and sustainable development.

  • Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF): The IEDF supports Indigenous communities and organizations in developing and implementing economic development projects. This fund aims to enhance economic opportunities and promote sustainable development within Indigenous communities. Applications for the IEDF are open until November 14, 2024.
  • Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program: This program provides funding to Indigenous communities for capital projects that stimulate economic development and create employment opportunities. The grants support projects that have a positive economic impact on the region.
  • Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program: Access to Capital: Administered by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), this program offers non-repayable contributions to Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses across Canada, including Ontario. Individual Indigenous entrepreneurs may receive up to $99,999 in funding assistance, while eligible Indigenous community businesses can receive up to $250,000.
  • Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Métis Capital Corporations (MCCs): These organizations provide financing and business support services to Indigenous entrepreneurs. They offer flexible financing options to start or grow a business, with amounts varying based on the business proposal and demonstrated need.

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)

For businesses located in Northern Ontario, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund provides financial assistance to support business development, expansion, and innovation in this region. Key programs include:

  • Business Expansion and Development Program: Offers funding for projects that increase the sustainability of businesses in Northern Ontario.
  • Rural Business Attraction Program: Helps attract and develop new businesses in rural and northern communities.

Export Market Access Program

Ontario businesses looking to expand internationally can take advantage of the Export Market Access Program. This initiative offers funding to businesses seeking to enter new markets by covering costs related to market research, trade shows, and international marketing campaigns.

Crafting a Strong Grant Application

Each funding program has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines. Before applying for any grant, it’s important to:

  • Review Eligibility: Carefully check the requirements for each program to ensure your business qualifies.
  • Prepare Your Proposal: Clearly communicate your business’s goals, impact, and financial needs. Highlight how the grant will help your business achieve its objectives.
  • Seek Professional Assistance: Consider working with a grant writer or consultant to craft a compelling proposal that will stand out.

Take the Next Step

Ready to explore funding opportunities for your small business? Research our province-specific guides to find the grants that best suit your needs. With the right resources and preparation, you can acquire the right funding for your business.

Each grant opportunity has its own specific eligibility criteria and application process. It’s important to thoroughly review these details before applying. Additionally, crafting a compelling grant proposal that clearly communicates your business’s mission, impact, and financial needs can significantly increase your chances of securing funding. Join POTD to Explore more about other Small Business Grants.