Business Development Stream
The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program provides cost-share funding to help small rural businesses strengthen their operations, improve competitiveness, and support local economic growth. The program supports projects that address barriers to economic development, build business capacity, attract or retain investment, and support jobs in rural communities.
Eligible businesses can receive 35% of project costs, up to a maximum of $10,000.
General eligibility: Businesses must have 1–20 employees, be operating at the time of application, and be paying agricultural, commercial or industrial property tax either directly or through rent or lease.
Eligible projects may include:
• Market or product diversification, including market research, marketing plans, new marketing materials, or initiatives to enter or expand into new markets
• Cybersecurity, including cybersecurity assessments and improvements to business security measures
• Succession planning, including developing a plan to prepare a business for ownership transition
• Accessibility improvements, such as ramps, automatic door openers, and other accessibility infrastructure
Application deadline is October 1, 2026. Funding is awarded on a first-come-first-served basis.
For more information, visit the program website or email RODprogram@ontario.ca
Learn more, https://www.ontario.ca/page/rural-ontario-development-program
