INVEST North Program — Regional Tile Drainage

Poorly drained fields can limit yields and delay planting across Northern Ontario, making long-term soil improvements a priority for many agricultural communities. The INVEST North Program — Regional Tile Drainage offers a way to tackle this challenge by helping fund large-scale tile drainage projects that benefit multiple producers. Delivered by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation on behalf of the Government of Ontario, the program is designed to support regional initiatives that improve farmland productivity and resilience.

Rather than funding individual farmers directly, this program typically supports eligible nonprofit or service organizations that manage tile drainage projects on behalf of participating producers. Funding can cover a significant share of contractor costs for materials and installation, along with project management and administration by the service provider. Overall support can reach up to about $1 million per project, structured as a conditional contribution, with producers expected to contribute a portion of the costs for their own acreage. Projects may include land already in production as well as new acreage, and work must be completed by licensed tile drainage contractors following Ontario design standards.

For agricultural organizations in Northern Ontario exploring regional drainage improvements, this program can make large, coordinated projects far more achievable. Reviewing the full requirements and funding structure can help determine whether INVEST North aligns with your goals and capacity.