Grants and Funding

Various levels of governments and community agencies offer a wide range of grants, loans, and other financial support that apply to the agri-food sector specifically, to farms specifically, or to all businesses generally.

The EOAN continuously researches available and relevant grants to update members on opportunities as they arise. If you have a project idea, contact the EOAN directly to chat about what the options are!

Managed Forest Tax incentive Program

The Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program encourages good forest management by giving a property tax reduction to eligible landowners who prepare and follow an approved Managed Forest Plan.
 

AGRICULTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP BURSARY

The entrepreneurial bursary is designed to encourage the establishment of young farmers and Franco-Ontarian entrepreneurship in agriculture. It is awarded to a candidate with superior entrepreneurial skills and qualities who is committed to a promising agricultural business project.
 

Agricultural Clean Technology program: Research and Innovation

As part of the Government of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, the new Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program aims to create an enabling environment for the development and adoption of clean technology that will help drive the changes required to achieve a low-carbon economy and promote sustainable growth in Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector.
 

Business Innovation and Growth projects

The Business Innovation and Growth category of the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) fosters the development of for-profit businesses so that they can invest, grow and create jobs for the prosperity of Canadians.
 

Young Farmers Loan – Farm Credit Canada

Farm Credit Canada provides loans to young producers under 40 to purchase farm or agriculture-related assets of up to $1,500,000.
 

Enviromental Solutions – Farm Credit Canada 

Farm Credit Canada offers financing for environmental solutions that can help farmers make environmental upgrades to their operation and switch to renewable energy resources.
 

Canada-Ontario Job Grant Program  

Canada-Ontario Job Grant (COJG) provides opportunities for employers, individually or in groups, to invest in their workforce, with help from the government.
 

Greenhouse Technology Network (GTN)

GTN is a Niagara College-led consortium of three institutions supporting the research and development needs of the greenhouse industry through applied research projects. The objective of the GTN is to bring together greenhouse and technology businesses with research institutions to advance development and adoption of new technologies.
 

Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program  

The Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program (PEFIP) aims to help supply-managed poultry and egg producers adapt to market changes resulting from the implementation of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). 
 

Small Business: Advice, Support Services, Regulations 

Get guidance and a grant for your small business. If you’re starting, expanding or buying a small business, apply for training, mentoring and a grant through Starter Company Plus.
 

AgriMarketing Program 

The AgriMarketing Program is a $129.97-million program under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).
 

AgriAssurance Program – National Industry Association

The AgriAssurance Program is a $64.05-million program under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).
 

Local Food Infrastructure Fund

The Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF) is a 5-year, $70 million initiative ending on March 31, 2024. It was created as part of the Government of Canada’s Food Policy for a healthier and more sustainable food system in Canada.
 

Capital Grant

Apply for a Capital grant to help your non-profit organization address a community need by improving the infrastructure Ontarians need to thrive. Whether it’s purchasing equipment, building a new space, or completing renovations, retrofits or repairs, Capital grants support projects that will have a positive impact in your community.
 

Experience Ontario 2023 Grant

The Ontario government is introducing the Experience Ontario 2023 program for festivals and events taking place between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024. 
 
This year, the government is investing almost $20 million in one-time funding through the Experience Ontario 2023 program to provide support to in-person festivals and events. The programming encourages people to travel, experience events in person and celebrate Ontario.  
 

Grassroots Growth Grant 

These Grassroots Growth Initiative (GGI) guidelines are subject to change from time to time and without notice. Applicants are encouraged to review the guidelines including appendices in their entirety before submitting an application.

The objectives of the GGI are to:

  • increase public engagement and support for agriculture, local food and rural development
  • build youth leadership capacity and increase youth involvement in the agri-food sector
  • enhance safety and risk management practices in the agri-food sector
  • strengthen public trust and public knowledge about Ontario’s agri-food systems
  • encourage agri-food and rural development outcomes

 

Click here for more information and to apply.