If you run a business in Ontario, finding the right funding can feel overwhelming. The good news is that Ontario has dozens of active grant and funding programs in 2026, with options for startups, small businesses, manufacturers, agri‑food companies, and Northern Ontario projects. Some programs offer $5,000 for early-stage founders, while others support multi‑million‑dollar expansion projects.
This hub breaks down the most relevant grants for businesses in Ontario and shows where to look first, based on real, current programs.
Before applying anywhere else, check Ontario’s official listings:
Ontario “Available funding opportunities” page
This is the province’s live list of open and upcoming intakes. Programs open and close throughout the year.
Transfer Payment Ontario (TPON)
Many Ontario grants, including regional and sector‑specific programs, are submitted through TPON.
These two portals help you avoid wasting time on closed programs.
Best for: New businesses and early-stage entrepreneurs
This is one of the most accessible Ontario small business grants and is often the first program founders qualify for.
Best for: Established businesses planning expansion or job creation
Ontario’s Regional Development Program includes:
Key details (EODF example):
These programs support productivity upgrades, innovation, and export growth.
Best for: Racialized and Indigenous business owners
Ontario confirmed the 2025–26 intake is open.
Best for: Businesses investing in digital tools and technology
Ontario’s Digitalization Competence Centre supports SMEs adopting new technologies.
Not every stream is a direct grant, but many include non‑repayable support.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and industry in seconds, which matters here because digital funding streams change often.
Best for: Southern Ontario businesses facing growth or trade challenges
FedDev Ontario delivers federal funding, including the:
Funding varies by project and is targeted at businesses impacted by trade pressures or seeking market diversification.
Best for: Northern Ontario businesses
NOHFC is a cornerstone funding source for Northern Ontario and runs multiple programs year‑round.
Ontario agri‑food businesses can access funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (2023–2028).
If your business does R&D in Canada:
While not a grant, SR&ED is often the largest single funding source for innovative Ontario businesses.
Only searching for “grants”
Many Ontario programs are repayable contributions or tax credits, which still provide major cash flow support.
Missing regional eligibility rules
Programs like EODF, SWODF, and NOHFC are strictly location‑based.
Applying too early—or too late
Some grants require revenue history or job creation commitments.
Ignoring federal programs
FedDev Ontario and SR&ED often stack with provincial funding.
Q: Are there grants for small businesses in Ontario right now?
Yes. Programs like Starter Company Plus and RAISE are active in 2026, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.
Q: Do Ontario business grants need to be repaid?
Some do, some don’t. Starter Company Plus grants are non‑repayable, while programs like EODF offer repayable contributions.
Q: Can I combine provincial and federal funding?
Often, yes. Many Ontario businesses stack provincial programs with FedDev Ontario or SR&ED support, subject to funding limits.
Q: Are there grants for startups with no revenue?
Options are limited, but Starter Company Plus is designed for early-stage businesses.
Q: How often do Ontario grants open?
Intakes run throughout the year. That’s why checking live portals matters.
Ontario funding changes fast, and eligibility depends on your location, sector, revenue, and growth plans. GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile and see where you actually qualify.
You may also want to explore related guides like Co‑op Student Funding in Ontario, Money From the Ontario Government 2025, and Mitacs Grants to build a complete funding strategy.
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The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.