Funding Supports Businesses Impacted by U.S. Tariffs

The Protect Ontario Financing Program (POFP) provides repayable working capital loans starting at $250,000 to help Ontario businesses address financial pressures resulting from U.S. s.232 tariffs on the steel, aluminum, copper, and automotive sectors. The program is intended to help businesses maintain operations, preserve jobs, and strengthen Ontario’s manufacturing and industrial supply chains.

Eligible applicants include Ontario-based incorporated businesses that generate at least $2 million in annual revenue, employ a minimum of 10 full-time employees, and have been in operation for at least three years.

Funding supports working capital expenses required to maintain business operations, including:

• Payroll
• Lease payments
• Utilities
• Other essential operating expenses

The program does not support capital expenditures, equipment purchases, refinancing existing debt, acquisitions, business relocations, or start-up businesses.

Funding is provided as a repayable term loan with repayment terms of up to six years. Applicants must demonstrate financial viability and the ability to repay the loan. Businesses are also expected to have explored available federal financing options before seeking support through the program.

Applicants must complete an online eligibility assessment before being invited to submit a full application. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis while program funding remains available.