Up to $10,000 Available for Rural Businesses in Elgin County

A new funding opportunity is now open for small rural businesses in Elgin County through the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program.

Who is eligible?

To apply, your business must:

• Be located in rural Ontario
• Have 1 to 20 employees, not including the owner
• Be currently operating and paying commercial, industrial, or agricultural property tax (or leasing from a property that does)

What types of projects are eligible?

You can apply for up to $10,000 in funding (35% of total project costs) for one or more of the following:

• Diversifying products or markets (e.g., launching a new product, entering a new market)
• Enhancing cyber security (e.g., upgrades, assessments, training)
• Succession planning (e.g., developing a business succession plan)
• Improving accessibility (e.g., ramps, door openers)

All projects must be completed by March 31, 2026, and applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Get help with your application
Applicants can access support through the Ministry of Rural Affairs:

• Call: 1-877-424-1300
• Email: RODprogram@ontario.ca
• Book a free one-on-one coaching session with a regional advisor directly through the program page

Learn more and apply:

• Rural Ontario Development Program Overview
• Business Development Guidelines

For local assistance, contact the Elgin County Economic Development team at economicdevelopment@elgin.ca.