Hot New Programs

Bring Your Vision to Life: Up to $2M in Grant Funding for Northern Ontario Municipalities

Written by GrantMatch Team | Apr 16, 2025 7:38:12 PM

Grant Funding to Boost Community Economic Development in Northern Ontario

Up to $2 Million Available for Economic Development and Community Upgrades

Northern Ontario municipalities now have access to two powerful funding opportunities through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC). Whether you’re focused on economic development or improving existing community spaces, these programs provide substantial grant support to help your community thrive.

Enhance Your Community Program

Funding: Up to $2,000,000 | Cost Coverage: Up to 50%

This program supports strategic, non-infrastructure economic development initiatives that create long-term value for Northern Ontario communities. It’s designed to fund projects that attract investment, enhance quality of life, and support local economic growth.

Eligible Projects Include:

  • Business retention and investment attraction strategies

  • Identification and implementation of new economic opportunities

  • Construction or renovation of capital assets tied to economic development (e.g., training centres, co-working spaces)

  • Non-capital project costs, such as technical expertise, feasibility studies, marketing, and incremental human resources

⚠️ Note: Projects involving roads, bridges, and wastewater infrastructure are not eligible under this stream.

This program is ideal for municipalities with bold, forward-looking plans to build local economies and attract opportunity.

Rural Enhancement Program

Tailored Support for Smaller Communities and Indigenous Populations

This funding stream is focused on repairing, renovating, and extending the life of key community assets that contribute to a healthy and vibrant social fabric.

Funding Structure:

  • Up to 90% of eligible costs (to a maximum of $200,000) for communities with fewer than 1,500 people and Indigenous communities

  • Up to 75% of eligible costs (to a maximum of $500,000) for communities with more than 1,500 people

Eligible Activities Include:

  • Incremental improvements, repairs, or renovations to:

    • Recreational facilities

    • Municipal buildings

    • Community halls and shared spaces

This is a strategic way to extend the life of existing infrastructure and support inclusive, accessible community services.

Apply Year-Round – But Don’t Wait

Both programs are open for continuous intake, which means there is no set deadline—but funding is limited and competitive. Municipalities are encouraged to apply as early as possible to secure support.

How GrantMatch Can Help

At GrantMatch, we specialize in helping municipalities across Ontario access and maximize government funding. From project alignment and eligibility checks to full application development, we provide tailored, strategic support that increases your chance of success.

📞 Let’s talk — reach out today to explore your project’s eligibility and begin building a stronger, more vibrant community with the support of NOHFC funding.