If your business is planning a major expansion in Ontario, the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) and Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF) can help cover part of your costs. These programs support job creation and large investments—but only for businesses that meet strict rules. Check if you qualify early to avoid wasting time on planning and applications.
Both funds are run by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. They focus on established employers with growth-ready projects.
The EODF and SWODF are regional programs that support medium-to-large businesses expanding operations, investing in productivity, or entering new markets.
There are two main funding streams:
This guide focuses on Business Project Loans, which offer higher funding but must be repaid.
Your project’s location—not your head office—decides which fund applies.
To qualify for an Eastern or Southwestern Ontario Development Fund business project loan, your business must meet all of these requirements:
Your project must be in:
Projects outside these regions do not qualify, even if your company operates elsewhere in Ontario.
Your business must have:
Startups and early-stage companies do not qualify.
You must have:
Lower thresholds in rural areas encourage regional investment.
Your project must create:
You must keep these jobs after the project ends.
Your total eligible project costs must be at least:
Small upgrades or regular purchases usually do not qualify.
Funding is usually released in stages and depends on job creation and investment commitments.
Projects that are often approved include:
Stand-alone restaurants and hotels are usually not eligible under SWODF unless the project is transformative and a regional priority.
For more details, see What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants?
Projects below the minimum investment are not accepted, even if your business is strong.
You must show how you will pay for the whole project. The fund does not replace bank or investor funding.
Job numbers are checked. If you miss your targets, you may have to repay funds or face penalties.
Apply to the fund that matches your project location, not your head office.
Q: Are Eastern Ontario Development Fund loans repayable?
Yes. Business project loans under the EODF must be repaid, unlike the grant stream.
Q: Can rural businesses qualify with fewer employees?
Yes. Rural Ontario businesses can qualify with as few as 5 employees and a $200,000 minimum project investment.
Q: Can I apply if my project is already started?
No. Projects must be approved before you spend money. Retroactive funding is not allowed.
Q: Do these funds support service-based businesses?
They can, but your project must show strong economic impact, capital investment, and job creation.
Q: How competitive are these programs?
Very competitive. Projects are judged on economic impact, financial strength, and regional priorities.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—you can check which ones fit your business profile.
If your business meets the size, location, and investment rules, the Eastern or Southwestern Ontario Development Fund could help you grow. Use GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to quickly filter programs by province and industry. Visit GrantHub to check your eligibility and compare timelines, funding types, and requirements before you apply.
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