The Ontario government is investing $20 million over the next two years through the newly launched Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program. The announcement was made by Minister of Rural Affairs Lisa Thompson during a special event at the REACH Centre in Clinton.
The new program is designed to help rural communities grow their local economies, support workers, improve infrastructure, and attract long-term investment. Minister Thompson said the program marks an important step in helping rural Ontario thrive.
She explained that the funding will go toward projects that focus on creating jobs, developing strong local economies, and improving life in small towns and villages across the province.
The ROD program replaces the former Rural Economic Development program and offers expanded support. It includes clear application windows and allows small businesses with one to twenty employees to apply directly for funding. Thompson emphasized that all rural areas across Ontario will have access to the program, including rural communities located within larger municipalities.
Applications are now open to rural municipalities, not-for-profit groups, Indigenous communities, and small businesses. The program supports four types of projects: long-term economic planning and local strategies, workforce recruitment and retention, improvements to community infrastructure and public spaces, and business development initiatives such as cybersecurity, accessibility, and market expansion.
The province is also providing guidance and one-on-one support to help applicants build strong proposals. Regional advisors and ministry staff are available to assist, and online webinars will be offered throughout the summer. The government says the goal is to make sure the program is accessible and effective for communities of all sizes.
The current intake period for applications runs until September 24, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Minister Thompson said she is proud of the work done so far and looks forward to seeing more rural communities build strong futures through this new investment. She encouraged everyone eligible to apply and thanked the community for its ongoing support and input in helping shape the program.
With the launch now underway, Thompson made it clear the program is just getting started.
For more information on the Rural Ontario Development Program and how to apply, visit the Ministry of Rural Affairs website.
Written by: L. Thompson