| Please find below a summary regarding the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Grant from Niagara Economic Development. The province has re-tooled the Rural Economic Development (RED) Grant to the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Grant. One of the major changes is what they consider to be rural (everywhere in Niagara except St. Cath), as well as opening a stream for small business development for those with 1-20 employees. Website Link – https://www.ontario.ca/document/rural-ontario-development-program-rod-guidelines-business-development Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program – Business Development Stream The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program is a provincially funded initiative (totaling $20 million over two years) designed to support economic growth, investment attraction, and job creation across rural Ontario. Who Can Apply • Small brick-and-mortar businesses in Ontario’s designated rural areas • Must have 1–20 employees (excluding owner) Funding Details • Cost-share grant: covers up to 35% of eligible costs • Maximum grant amount: $10,000 per business Eligible Activities Projects that help enhance business sustainability and competitiveness, such as: • Cyber-security upgrades • Accessibility improvements • Market expansion initiatives • Potentially includes improvements in energy efficiency, digital platforms, or facility upgrades Key Dates • First intake is open now • Application deadline: September 24, 2025, 5:00 pm ET Why This Matters to BOT Members • Lower investment risk: Helps businesses offset costs for strategic improvements and resilience-building • Supports business modernization: Great for digital upgrades, accessibility compliance, and reaching new markets • Boosts local competitiveness: Strengthens main streets, supports BR+E work, and retains jobs • Aligns with Niagara’s key priorities: Fits well with local efforts in agri-food processing, industrial modernization, and visitor economy development Matthew McGinty Economic Development Officer Economic Development | Niagara Region 905-980-6000 ext. 3520 | 289-929-7633 matthew.mcginty@niagararegion.ca NiagaraCanada.com 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, P.O. Box 1042, Thorold, ON, L2V 4T7 |
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