Program Supports Innovation, Business Growth

The Rural Innovation Initiative: Eastern Ontario Regional Stream offers grants of up to 50% to a maximum of $100,000 for projects that support the growth of Rural Eastern Ontario businesses and the economic development of surrounding communities. Eligible projects include but are not limited to:

• Facility expansion and modernization
• Adopting, adapting or commercializing innovative products and processes
• Accessing new markets
• Employee skill development

Eligible expenses include:

• Retrofits, equipment purchases and installation
• Consulting and professional fees
• Employee wages and benefits
• Other project-related expenses

Building and land purchases as well as regular/ongoing operational and maintenance costs are ineligible. The program supports projects ending no later than December 31, 2020, undertaken in one of the following Eastern Ontario regions: 1) Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry 2) Prescott and Russell 7) Leeds and Grenville 9) Lanark 10) Frontenac 11) Lennox and Addington 12) Hastings 13) Prince Edward 14) Northumberland 15) Peterborough 16) Kawartha Lakes 17) Haliburton 18) Renfrew 19) Census subdivisions: Durham, Brock, York, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, and Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation.