Cornwall, ON – The Ontario government is now accepting applications for the latest intake of the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program, providing funding opportunities to support economic growth, strengthen communities, and help rural businesses remain competitive. The current application period is open until October 1, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET.

The ROD Program supports projects that help rural communities attract investment, create jobs, build local capacity, enhance infrastructure, and address workforce challenges. The program is a key component of Ontario’s strategy to support long-term economic development in rural areas and replaces the former Rural Economic Development (RED) Program.

Eligible applicants include rural municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and organizations, local services boards, and small businesses with 1 to 20 employees located in eligible rural areas of Ontario.

Through the Business Development Stream, small businesses may be eligible for cost-share funding to support projects such as:

  • Market expansion and business growth initiatives
  • Development of marketing materials and strategies
  • Cybersecurity improvements
  • Succession planning
  • Accessibility enhancements and infrastructure improvements

Businesses can receive up to 35% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $10,000 through this stream.

For municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profit organizations, funding is also available through streams focused on economic diversification, workforce development, and community infrastructure enhancements.

Interested applicants can review program details, eligibility requirements, and application materials through the Ontario government website at Rural Ontario Development Program.

About the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre

The Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre is dedicated to supporting and promoting entrepreneurship in Cornwall, the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry and Akwesasne. Funded by the Province of Ontario as part of the 54 Small Business Enterprise Centres across the province, the Centre provides resources, mentorship, and guidance to new and existing entrepreneurs, helping them grow into successful businesses.

The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre is located at 100 Water Street East (Cornwall Civic Complex) :

  • www.businessenterprisecentre.ca