Grants Ontario: A Complete Guide to Ontario Government Funding in 2025–2026

If you run a business, nonprofit, or community organization in Ontario, finding the right funding can feel overwhelming. Hundreds of grants Ontario programs are active each year, run by the Province of Ontario and federal partners like FedDev Ontario. In 2025–2026 alone, Ontario-backed programs are distributing billions in repayable and non‑repayable funding across business growth, innovation, hiring, and community projects.

This page is your hub. It explains what Ontario grants are available, who they’re for, and how to find the ones that actually fit your situation.

Grants Ontario: What Programs Are Available and Who Can Apply

Ontario grants are not one-size-fits-all. They are targeted by organization type, industry, location, and project goal. Below is a clear breakdown of the main categories, with real programs and funding amounts.

Business Grants in Ontario

Ontario businesses can access both provincial and federal funding delivered in Ontario. Most programs focus on innovation, productivity, exports, and job creation.

Common business grant features

Typically for incorporated businesses or SMEs
Project-based funding (you must spend first, then claim)
Cost-sharing is common (e.g., 50% covered by the grant)

Key programs in 2025–2026

FedDev Ontario – Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI)
Supports southern Ontario businesses scaling innovative products or processes.
- Funding: Up to $10 million (mix of repayable and non‑repayable)
- Eligible applicants: Incorporated businesses, nonprofits supporting innovation
Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP)
For auto parts suppliers investing in technology upgrades.
- Funding: Up to $150,000 per project
- Covers up to 50% of eligible costs
Starter Company Plus (Ontario)
For new entrepreneurs starting or expanding a small business.
- Funding: Grants of up to $5,000
- Includes training and mentorship

Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter these programs by Ontario region, industry, and business stage in seconds.

Nonprofit and Community Grants Ontario

Ontario is one of the strongest provinces for nonprofit and community funding.

Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Grants
One of Ontario’s largest funders of nonprofits and charities.
- Funding ranges from $10,000 to over $1 million depending on stream
- Supports community services, arts, environment, and youth programs
- Streams include Seed, Grow, and Capital grants

OTF grants are competitive and outcome-focused. Clear community impact matters more than organizational size.

Hiring, Training, and Student Funding

Ontario grants also support hiring students, interns, and upskilling staff.

Co-op and internship wage subsidies
- Cover 50%–70% of wages for eligible students
- Often capped between $5,000 and $10,000 per placement

If hiring talent is a priority, see our guide on Co-op Student Funding Ontario.

Research, Innovation, and Scale-Up Funding

Ontario businesses and nonprofits doing R&D can stack provincial and federal programs.

Mitacs programs (delivered in Ontario)
- Supports industry–academic research partnerships
- Funding often covers 50%–75% of project costs

How to Qualify for Grants Ontario Programs

While each program is different, most grants Ontario programs look for the same basics:

You operate in Ontario
You have a clear project with measurable outcomes
You can cover your share of project costs
You meet reporting and compliance requirements

Deadlines vary. Some programs accept applications year‑round, while others run one or two intakes per year.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying before your project is defined
Most Ontario grants do not fund ideas. They fund specific, costed projects.
Missing cost‑share requirements
Many programs only cover 33%–75% of expenses. You must prove you can fund the rest.
Using the wrong program level
Some grants are provincial, others are federal but region‑specific to Ontario. Mixing these up wastes time.
Ignoring reporting obligations
Ontario funders expect progress reports and proof of spending. Poor reporting can block future funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are grants Ontario programs free money?
Some are non‑repayable, but many are cost‑shared or partially repayable. Always check the funding agreement before applying.

Q: Can startups apply for Ontario grants?
Yes. Programs like Starter Company Plus and select innovation grants support early‑stage businesses, but eligibility is strict.

Q: Do Ontario grants have to be repaid?
It depends on the program. Community and nonprofit grants are usually non‑repayable, while large business growth funds may be repayable.

Q: Can I apply for more than one Ontario grant?
Often yes, as long as you are not double‑funding the same expenses. Stacking rules apply.

Q: Where can I find all active grants Ontario programs?
The official Ontario and federal funding portals list programs, but they are spread across departments.

GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile.

Next Steps

Ontario offers one of the widest funding ecosystems in Canada, but the right grant depends on your location, sector, and goals. Use this page as your starting point, then explore related guides like Money from the Ontario Government 2025. With the right match and timing, grants Ontario programs can support real growth — without taking equity or control of your organization.

Grants Ontario: A Complete Guide to Ontario Government Funding in 2025–2026