If you’re searching for grants in Ontario, the challenge isn’t finding funding—it’s figuring out which programs fit your business, nonprofit, or project right now. Ontario runs dozens of programs each year, with changing intake windows and rules. The most reliable starting point is the province’s live funding list, which shows what’s open and how to apply through Transfer Payment Ontario.
Below is a practical hub for Ontario grants in 2025–2026, with real programs, funding amounts, and eligibility notes you can use today.
Ontario funding falls into a few clear buckets: small business and startups, regional economic development, rural and agriculture, and nonprofits. Here are the programs most applicants ask about.
Best for: New and early-stage businesses across Ontario
Funding: Up to $5,000 per approved participant
What you get: Grant funding plus mandatory training and mentorship
Last updated: December 2, 2025
Starter Company Plus supports entrepreneurs who are starting or growing a small business. The program is delivered locally by Small Business Enterprise Centres, so eligibility details (like age or employment status) can vary by region. Funding is typically paid after you complete training and meet milestones.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs like Starter Company Plus by location and business stage in seconds.
Best for: Established businesses expanding operations or investing in productivity
Covers:
This umbrella program supports business expansion, job creation, and community economic development. For example, SWODF typically requires:
Support may include interest-free loans, with limited grant portions in specific cases.
Best for: Rural small businesses and communities
Eligibility: Businesses with 1–20 employees in eligible rural areas
Funding: Cost-share support up to $10,000 for business development activities
This program helps rural businesses invest in planning, skills development, and local economic growth. Intakes are posted by period, so timing matters.
Example program: Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Initiative
Sector: Ontario agriculture and food producers
2026 intake: Opened February 17, 2026
Deadline: March 17, 2026
Agriculture programs often run on short intake windows. If you operate in farming or food processing, it’s important to track these dates closely.
Best for: Nonprofits, charities, and community organizations
2026 deadlines include:
The Ontario Trillium Foundation is one of the largest sources of provincial funding for nonprofits. Grants support community impact, organizational capacity, and partnerships.
Not all funding comes from Queen’s Park. FedDev Ontario supports businesses and organizations in southern Ontario with innovation, scale-up, and regional growth programs. These federal grants and repayable contributions often stack with provincial funding.
For the most accurate, up-to-date information:
Because intakes open and close throughout the year, checking these portals monthly can make the difference between applying and missing out.
Assuming all funding is a grant
Many Ontario programs offer loans or mixed funding. Always check whether repayment is required.
Missing intake windows
Some programs, especially in agriculture and rural development, are only open for a few weeks.
Applying before you meet minimum requirements
Programs like SWODF often require a set number of employees or years in operation.
Ignoring federal options
Ontario businesses often qualify for both provincial and federal funding—but many applicants only look at one level.
Q: Are there grants in Ontario for existing businesses?
Yes. Programs like the Regional Development Program and Rural Ontario Development Program support established businesses, not just startups.
Q: Can I apply for more than one Ontario grant at the same time?
Often yes, as long as the programs don’t fund the same expenses. Always disclose other funding in your application.
Q: Are Ontario grants taxable income?
In many cases, yes. Grants are usually considered business income. Check with your accountant for your situation.
Q: Do nonprofits and charities have different grants?
Yes. Programs like the Ontario Trillium Foundation are specifically designed for nonprofits and charities.
Q: How do I know which grants are open right now?
Ontario’s live funding list is the most reliable source for current intakes.
Ontario offers hundreds of funding opportunities, but eligibility depends on your location, industry, and project timing. GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile. You can also explore related guides like Money from the Ontario Government in 2025 and Co-op Student Funding in Ontario to build a stronger funding plan.
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