The new Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program is accepting applications until September 24, 2025! This is a $20 million investment over the next two years. 

Information webinars:

Learn how to get funding to help boost growth in your rural community and create strong businesses by joining the Ministry of Rural Affairs for a live info session!

The following topics will be covered during the webinar:

• ROD program overview 
• Eligible applicants 
• Expanded definition of “rural” 
• Program streams and project types
• Learn how to apply
• Ask your questions!   

Who should attend

• Rural Ontario municipalities
• Indigenous communities
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Local Services Boards
• Rural Ontario small businesses (1 to 20 employees)

Webinar dates and times

English:

• July 8 2025               10:00 am – 11:30 am ET
• Aug 20, 2025            10:00 am – 11:30 am ET
• Sept 10, 2025           10:00 am – 11:30 am ET

French:

• July 8, 2025               1:30 pm – 3:00 pm ET
• Aug 20, 2025            1:30 pm – 3:00 pm ET
• Sept 10, 2025           1:30 pm – 3:00 pm ET

Application Intakes

Applications will be accepted from June 24, 2025 until September 24, 2025 at 5 p.m. ET. For future application intake dates please visit Ontario.ca/RODprogram.

The ROD program offers $20 million in funding over 2 years and provides cost-share funding for projects that help rural communities:

• address barriers and build capacity for economic development
• to attract, retain and expand businesses
• attract and retain investment and jobs
• strengthen regional partnerships and economic resilience
• address workforce development challenges
• transform community assets to drive economic development

*Applicants for Rural Community Development projects can book a free, one-on-one coaching session with a regional advisor to get help!

To learn more about the ROD program and the funding streams visit Ontario.ca/RODprogram.

For general ROD program inquiries call 1-877-424-1300 or send an email to RODprogram@ontario.ca