Program Overview
The Ontario Transit Investment Fund focuses on building sustainable transit solutions that connect communities to employment, services, and key destinations. A core requirement of the program is that all projects must clearly demonstrate how they address an existing transit service gap.
Funding is available for up to 50% of total eligible project costs, supporting multi-year initiatives that deliver long-term impact.
Eligible Applicants
OTIF is open to a range of organizations involved in delivering or supporting transit services across Ontario, including:
- Municipalities at all levels
- Municipal or regional transit agencies
- Indigenous communities and organizations
- Not-for-profit organizations delivering transit services
- Private sector partners participating in a public-sector led project
- Multi-stakeholder partnerships focused on regional transit integration
Projects that demonstrate strong collaboration and alignment with existing transit systems will be well positioned for funding.
Eligible Projects
To qualify, projects must directly address a transit service gap. This can include:
New Transit Services
Establishing routes or services in areas that currently lack access to public transportation
Service Expansion
Extending existing transit networks to reach underserved or growing communities
First Mile and Last Mile Solutions
Improving access to transit by connecting riders from their point of origin to transit hubs and from transit stops to final destinations such as workplaces, schools, or commercial areas
Transit Integration Initiatives
Enhancing coordination between existing services, including governance improvements and system integration to create seamless user experiences
These project types are central to improving overall network efficiency and increasing transit adoption across regions.
Eligible Expenses
OTIF supports both operating and capital expenditures required to deliver impactful transit solutions.
Operating Costs
- Administration costs, including salaries and benefits
- Consulting and professional services
- Driver wages, training, and benefits
- Marketing and outreach initiatives
- Contracted transportation services
Capital Costs
- Purchase or lease of vehicles such as buses, vans, e-bikes, and e-scooters
- Infrastructure improvements including bus shelters and accessibility upgrades
- Investments that enhance passenger safety and transit security
Municipalities considering micromobility solutions such as e-scooters must ensure compliance with applicable provincial regulations and local by-laws.
Why This Matters
Transit accessibility continues to be a key barrier for many communities across Ontario. Gaps in service can limit access to employment, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
By funding projects that directly address these gaps, OTIF supports:
- Stronger regional connectivity
- Increased workforce mobility
- Reduced reliance on personal vehicles
- More inclusive and accessible communities
For growing municipalities and underserved regions, this program provides the resources needed to build scalable, long-term transit solutions.
How GrantMatch Can Help
Securing funding through OTIF requires more than meeting eligibility criteria. Successful applications must clearly demonstrate the existence of a service gap, the impact of the proposed solution, and alignment with program priorities.
GrantMatch supports organizations by:
- Identifying and validating project eligibility
- Positioning projects to align with funding objectives
- Developing strong, competitive applications
- Managing the process from initial assessment through submission
With extensive experience supporting municipal and infrastructure funding initiatives, our team ensures your project is strategically positioned for success.
Take the Next Step
If your organization is planning a transit expansion, integration initiative, or first mile and last mile solution, now is the time to explore funding through the Ontario Transit Investment Fund.
.png)