Collaborating partners

Running a business in Northern Ontario often means navigating unique geographic, sector, and community challenges, but it also comes with access to a strong network of regional support. Through its Collaborating Partners initiative, the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor) works behind the scenes to strengthen the organizations that help entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized businesses start, grow, and innovate across the region. Rather than a single grant application, this initiative connects businesses to a broader ecosystem of funding, expertise, and hands-on support delivered by trusted local partners.

These collaborating partners include community-based organizations, sector specialists, and innovation-focused programs that understand Northern Ontario’s economic realities. Depending on your industry and stage of growth, support may come in the form of non-repayable funding contributions, business training, mentorship, technology adoption support, investor connections, or access to workspaces and accelerators. Businesses in areas such as technology, forestry, cultural industries, construction, and high-growth startups can benefit from partners with deep, practical knowledge of those sectors, while inclusive programs ensure underrepresented entrepreneurs can access tailored support.

Because funding amounts and services vary by project and partner organization, this opportunity is best viewed as a gateway into Northern Ontario’s innovation and business development network. Exploring the full range of FedNor-supported partners can help you identify which programs align most closely with your business goals and growth plans.