Many Ontario publishers find it hard to get their books noticed in a crowded market. The Publishing Marketing and Discoverability Fund helps cover the cost of promotion so Ontario-made books can reach more readers, both in Canada and abroad. The program is delivered by Ontario Creates and is currently open to eligible applicants.
The Publishing Marketing and Discoverability Fund is a non-repayable funding program from Ontario Creates. It supports marketing and promotional activities that increase the visibility and sales of eligible publishing projects.
The focus is not on writing or production. It is on helping readers find your books and boosting sales.
Key facts at a glance:
Ontario Creates decides funding based on your marketing plan. The amount you receive depends on the details and strength of your proposal.
Eligibility is based on both location and business type. Ontario Creates posts clear rules for each round, but the fund generally supports:
Non-profit publishers may be eligible, depending on their structure and how they meet Ontario Creates’ requirements.
If you are unsure whether your business structure qualifies, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and industry in seconds.
The Publishing Marketing and Discoverability Fund supports marketing, promotion, and costs related to helping readers find and buy your books. These are expenses directly tied to reaching new audiences and increasing sales.
Eligible expense categories commonly include:
The program does not support editorial, writing, or core production costs. Your application must clearly show how each expense will help more readers find your books.
For a broader view, see also:
What expenses do arts, culture, and media grants cover?
Applying is a structured process. Strong applications are clear, detailed, and realistic.
Start on the official Ontario Creates program page. Guidelines explain:
Your application should focus on a specific marketing plan, not general business operations. Be clear about:
Ontario Creates decides funding based on your marketing plan. Break down costs line by line and tie each one to a marketing activity. Avoid lump-sum estimates.
Ontario Creates typically requires:
Applications are submitted according to Ontario Creates’ intake timelines while the program remains open.
GrantHub tracks active Ontario Creates funding programs, making it easier to see deadlines and eligibility in one place.
This fund is for marketing, not creating content. Applications that blur this line are often rejected.
“Increase visibility” is not enough. Ontario Creates expects clear tactics, audiences, and channels.
Budgets that do not match the scope of activities raise red flags during review.
Business structure and Ontario presence matter. Always confirm eligibility before applying.
Q: How much funding can I receive from the Publishing Marketing and Discoverability Fund?
Ontario Creates decides funding based on your project scope and program guidelines. There is no single maximum listed publicly.
Q: Is the Publishing Marketing and Discoverability Fund repayable?
No. This program is positioned as non-repayable business development funding.
Q: When is the deadline to apply?
Applications are accepted while the program status is open, following Ontario Creates’ intake timelines.
Q: Can non-profit publishers apply?
Possibly. Eligibility depends on how the organization meets Ontario Creates’ requirements.
Q: Are Ontario Creates grant funds taxable?
Grant funding is generally treated as business income. You should confirm the tax treatment with your accountant.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—check which ones match your business profile.
If your publishing business is based in Ontario and you are planning a serious marketing push, the Publishing Marketing and Discoverability Fund deserves close attention. Start by reviewing the official guidelines, then compare it with other funding options you may be eligible for. GrantHub helps you see which Ontario and Canada-wide programs align with your publishing goals, timelines, and budget.
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