Ontario Agriculture Grants: Comprehensive Overview of Funding Opportunities

Q: What grant opportunities are currently available to farmers in Ontario?

Current grant opportunities for farmers in Ontario include the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), which supports projects in innovation, sustainability, and market development. Other programs include the Environmental Farm Plan, which offers funding for sustainable agricultural practices, and grants specifically targeted at expanding the use of technology or improving farm infrastructure.

Q: Are there specific grants available for young farmers in Ontario?

Yes, specific grants are available for young farmers in Ontario. The Ontario Young Farmers Program and initiatives under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership offer funding to support young and beginning farmers in acquiring land, upgrading equipment, and implementing sustainable farming practices.

Q: How does the FCC (Farm Credit Canada) support agriculture development through grants?

Farm Credit Canada (FCC) supports agriculture development through grants like the FCC AgriSpirit Fund, which provides funding for community projects that enhance rural infrastructure and support agricultural growth. FCC also offers loans and financing programs to help farmers and agribusinesses expand their operations.

Q: What is the deadline to apply for agriculture grants in Ontario this year?

Deadlines for agriculture grants in Ontario vary by program. For example, some grants under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership have rolling deadlines, while others have fixed dates throughout the year. Farmers should check the specific program guidelines and announcements on helloDarwin to stay updated.

Ontario's agriculture sector is vital to the province’s economy, and the government supports it through a variety of grants and funding programs. These programs aim to promote sustainable farming practices, drive innovation, and assist agricultural businesses in expanding their operations. From farmers to agri-food businesses, various grants are available to support the growth and development of the agricultural industry.

74 opportunities available

Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen

Expanded Energy Management Program

Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)

Funding to strengthen facility energy management and efficiency initiatives

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 250,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Construction

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateHuman Resources

Expert AdviceOpen

Ontario Food Exports — Services for Exporters

Government of Ontario (ON), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFRA)

Food and beverage industry export help in Ontario

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade

Types of eligible projects

Commercialization

Grant and FundingOpen

FedNor — Regional Tariff Response Initiative

Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor)

Supports Northern Ontario SMEs affected by international trade tariffs

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyInnovationDigital Transformation

Grant and FundingOpen

Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) for Northern Ontario

Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor)

Funding AI commercialization and adoption in Northern Ontario businesses

Eligible Funding

Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing
Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)

Grant and FundingClosed

Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program (IFIT) — Business projects

Government of Ontario (ON), Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (ON) (MNRF)

Financial assistance for forestry projects in Ontario

Eligible Funding

From $3,000,000 to $3,000,000
Up to 30% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Grains Innovation Fund

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO)

Supports innovation and market growth for Ontario grain projects

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 75,000 $
Up to 60% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) — Northern Ontario

Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor), Government of Canada (GC)

Supports tariff-impacted Northern Ontario SMEs for productivity and growth

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyInnovationDigital Transformation

Grant and FundingClosed

Food Safety and Growth Initiative

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), Government of Ontario (ON)

Enhance food safety systems, adopt new technologies, and drive sector growth

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 75,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Transportation and warehousing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateHuman ResourcesInnovation

Other SupportOpen

Instant Discounts Program

Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)

Instant point-of-sale discounts on energy-efficient lighting upgrades

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 140 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Utilities

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and Climate

Grant and FundingOpen

Retrofit Program

Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), Pillar Nonprofit Network

Financial incentives for energy efficiency upgrades reducing electricity use

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 250,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Educational services
Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario Agri-food Research Initiative (OAFRIP)

Government of Ontario (ON), Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFRA)

Funding for Ontario agri-food research and innovation projects

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Northern Ontario Development Program — Community Economic Development

Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor), Government of Canada (GC)

Funding for Northern Ontario community economic development

Eligible Funding

Up to 33% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Utilities
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Innovation

Researchers And FacilitiesGrant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsArchived

Next Generation of Jobs Fund

Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (ON)

Supports green job creation and environmental sustainability in Ontario

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Utilities
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateHuman ResourcesInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Greening Partnership Grant

City of Toronto, Regional Municipality of York

Supports tree planting and stewardship on private Toronto land

Eligible Funding

From $5,000 to $100,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Educational services
Other services (except public administration)
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

Environment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Agri-Food Supply Chain Infrastructure Investment Stream

Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC)

Money for agri-food equipment and assets acquisition

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 150,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Retail trade

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingClosed

Sustainable New Agri-Food Products & Productivity Program — Productivity Enhancement

Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN)

Support for agriculture and food producers and businesses

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 10,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Environment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Grassroots Growth Program

Government of Ontario (ON), Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFRA)

Funding for agricultural and rural community initiatives in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Other SupportOpen

Ontario Beef Cattle Financial Protection Program

Agricorp, Government of Ontario (ON)

Recover livestock sales losses in Ontario

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingOpen

Forest Biomass Program — Innovative bioproduct manufacturing stream

Government of Ontario (ON)

Supports forest biomass innovation and utilization in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 5,000,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Utilities
Construction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Honey Bee Health Initiative

Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA)

Funding for beekeepers in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 25,000 $
Up to 60% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Environment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Sustainable New Agri-Food Products & Productivity Program — Clean Tech in Agri-Food

Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN)

Support for agriculture and food producers and businesses

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 25,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation Innovation

Grant and FundingClosed

OCI — Critical Industrial Technologies initiative (CIR)

Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI)

Supports Ontario SMEs in adopting critical industrial technologies

Eligible Funding

From $50 to $1,000,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Construction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)Technology

Grant and FundingOpen

Genomic Applications Partnership Program (GAPP)

Ontario Genomics, Genome Canada

Genomic Applications Partnership Program funds genomics-derived R&D projects

Eligible Funding

From $100,000 to $6,000,000
Up to 1% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Professional, scientific and technical services
Health care and social assistance
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Forest Biomass Program — Exploring biomass pathways stream

Government of Ontario (ON)

Ontario's Forest Biomass Program: fostering sustainable economic growth

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 130,000 $
Up to 80% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario — Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative

Government of Ontario (ON), Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP)

Enhance meat processing capacity through equipment upgrades

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 150,000 $
Up to 60% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationConstruction and Renovation

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Grant and FundingClosed

Small Distillery Program

Agricorp

Supports Ontario small distilleries' business expansion and job creation

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 220,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationBusiness Buyout

Grant and FundingClosed

Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation & Southern Ontario Prosperity Program

Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev), Government of Canada (GC)

Funding for SMEs in Southern Ontario to grow, innovate and compete

Eligible Funding

Minimum amount : 125,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationDigital Transformation

Grant and FundingClosed

Caribou Conservation Stewardship Program (CCSP) 2025-26

Government of Ontario (ON)

Supports Boreal Caribou conservation through habitat restoration and research

Eligible Funding

Up to 20% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Professional, scientific and technical services
Educational services

Types of eligible projects

Environment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF)

Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA)

Cost-share funding for Ontario farmers

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationEnvironment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative : Stream 3 – Agri-Tech Energy Costs Savings

Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC), Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP)

Supports growth through agri-food innovation and efficiency

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Up to 35% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingArchived

INVEST North Program — Regional Tile Drainage

Government of Ontario (ON), Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)

Funding to increase crop yields in Northern Ontario

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Tax CreditsOpen

Farm Property Class Tax Rate Program

Agricorp, Government of Ontario (ON)

Provides reduced property tax rates for eligible Ontario farmland owners

Eligible Funding

Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingClosed

Indigenous Climate Action Grants

City of Toronto

Supports Indigenous-led climate action for Toronto’s urban Indigenous community

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 20,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Educational services
Health care and social assistance
Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Environment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program — Collaboration projects

Government of Ontario (ON), Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (ON) (MNRF)

Funding for collaborative forestry projects in Ontario

Eligible Funding

From $3,000,000 to $3,000,000
Up to 30% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyConstruction and Renovation Innovation

Grant and FundingClosed

VQA Wine Support Program

Agricorp

Supports Ontario wineries in growing sales and tourism activities

Eligible Funding

Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Canada United Small Business Relief Fund

Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC)

Grant supports small businesses' COVID-19 operational adjustments

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 5,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Retail trade
Other services (except public administration)
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

Digital Transformation

Grant and FundingClosed

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund — Small Businesses or Entrepreneurs Developing Agri-tech and Cleantech Solutions

ventureLAB

Funding for agri-tech and cleantech solutions in York Region

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 10,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

Artificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Small Cidery Program

Agricorp

Supports Ontario small cideries to scale and boost competitiveness

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 220,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationBusiness Buyout

Grant and FundingClosed

Labour Force Management Strategies Initiative (LFMSI)

Government of Ontario (ON), Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP)

Funding for agri-food local labour strategies through pilot projects

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Human Resources

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario Dairy Processing Modernization Initiative

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), Government of Ontario (ON), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFRA)

Funding for dairy processing equipment upgrades

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 200,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Technology

Grant and FundingClosed

Food Security and Supply Chain Fund

Government of Ontario (ON)

Supports agri-food sector resilience and workforce development in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyHuman ResourcesInnovation

Loans and Capital investmentsOpen

VERGE Capital — Breakthrough Fund

Government of Ontario (ON), VERGE Capital

Loans for social enterprises in Southwestern Ontario

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Retail trade
Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

Innovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund (EIF) — Non-Profits that Serve Underrepresented Communities

ventureLAB

Funding for non-profit organizations in York Region

Eligible Funding

From $10,000 to $10,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Information and cultural industries
Other services (except public administration)

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Sustainable New Agri-Food Products & Productivity Program — New Products

Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN)

Support for agriculture and food producers

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 10,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Cultural Funding - Major arts, cultural festivals, agricultural fairs programs

City of Ottawa

Supports Ottawa arts, culture festivals, and agricultural fairs annually

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingOpen

Forest Biomass Program — Indigenous bioeconomy partnerships stream

Government of Ontario (ON)

Ontario supports sustainable forest biomass utilization and innovation

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 250,000 $
Up to 80% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateHuman ResourcesInnovation

Grant and FundingExpert AdviceClosed

Ottawa Rural Clean Water Program

City of Ottawa

Supports rural projects safeguarding Ottawa’s surface and groundwater quality

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 15,000 $
Up to 90% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Educational services

Types of eligible projects

Environment and ClimateInnovation

Tax CreditsOpen

Gasoline used in unlicensed business equipment

Ontario Ministry of Finance, Government of Ontario (ON)

Refund for Ontario gasoline tax paid for unlicensed equipment

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Construction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Construction and Renovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Poultry Biosecurity Preparedness Initiative (PBPI)

Government of Ontario (ON)

Funding for enhancing biosecurity in non-supply poultry operations

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 500,000 $
Up to 70% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Construction and Renovation

Grant and FundingOpen

BioCreate Program

Ontario Genomics

Supports southern Ontario biotech SMEs advancing genomics innovations

Eligible Funding

From $100,000 to $150,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Professional, scientific and technical services
Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyInnovation

Find tailored funding for your business

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Grant and FundingClosed

Programs for major arts, cultural festivals and agricultural fairs – Program for fairs

City of Ottawa

Operating support for major local agricultural fairs

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingClosed

Agri-Food Supply Chain Resiliency Analysis Stream

Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC)

Support for agri-food sector market and supply chain challenges

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 50,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Construction and Renovation Innovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Intellectual Property Ontario

Government of Ontario (ON)

Funding support for Ontario-based SMEs in tech and innovation sectors

Eligible Funding

Up to 80% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)Technology

Tax CreditsOpen

Ontario tax credit for manufacturing and processing

Ontario Ministry of Finance, Government of Ontario (ON)

Supports corporations with eligible manufacturing and processing income

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingClosed

Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative : Stream 2 – Agri-Tech Innovation

Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC)

Agri-Tech Initiative supports innovation and energy efficiency investments

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Forest Biomass Program — Modernization stream

Government of Ontario (ON)

Modernizes Ontario's forest sector using underutilized biomass resources

Eligible Funding

Up to 35% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Environment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Veterinary Incentive Program (VIP)

Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC)

Incentivizes veterinarians to practice in underserved Ontario areas

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 50,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Human Resources

Grant and FundingClosed

Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative : Stream 1 – Agri-Tech Innovation

Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC)

Supports agri-food growth through innovation and energy efficiency

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 49,999 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Tax CreditsOpen

Ontario community food program donation tax credit for farmers

Ontario Ministry of Finance, Government of Ontario (ON)

Tax credit for Ontario farmers donating food to communities

Eligible Funding

Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingOpen

AgriStability — Ontario

Agricorp, Government of Ontario (ON)

Insurance to protect farming operations

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 3,000,000 $
Up to 80% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingClosed

Grow Ontario Market Initiative

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), Government of Ontario (ON)

Grow Ontario Market Initiative funds agri-food market expansion

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 60,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade

Types of eligible projects

Commercialization

Grant and FundingOpen

Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Initiative

Government of Ontario (ON)

Funding to diversify and strengthen domestic and international market access

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

Commercialization

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario — Biosecurity Enhancement Initiative

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), Government of Ontario (ON)

Biosecurity Enhancement Initiative supports agriculture and food sector resiliency

Eligible Funding

Up to 35% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Transportation and warehousing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario — Growing Future Opportunities Initiative

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), Agricorp

Cost-share support for competitive grape and fruit replanting

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 50,000 $
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Environment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

INVEST North Program — Investment – Locate Stream

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)

Supports businesses relocating operations to Northern Ontario for economic growth

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 5,000,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationConstruction and Renovation Digital Transformation

Grant and FundingClosed

Smart Agriculture Living Lab Call for Proposal

Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks (CENGN)

Funding innovative smart agriculture solutions for industry challenges

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Artificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationDigital Transformation

Grant and FundingClosed

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund – Stream 1

Simon Fraser University VentureLabs

Support for inclusive entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 10,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Environment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingClosed

Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) — Studies projects

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Government of Canada (GC)

Funding for forest sector studies

Eligible Funding

Minimum amount : 100,000 $
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

Grant and FundingOpen

ROOTS Community Fund

Trillium Mutual Insurance Company

Support for rural Ontario community initiatives

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

Environment and Climate

Grant and FundingClosed

Carrot Cache Fund

Carrot Cache

Supports projects advancing sustainable, just local food systems

Eligible Funding

From $500 to $5,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingClosed

United Way Greater Toronto - Jane Finch Community Action Grants

The United Way of Greater Toronto (UWGT)

Supports neighborhood-focused community initiatives in Jane Finch

Eligible Funding

From $25,000 to $75,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Wholesale trade

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF)

Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming and Ministry of Sport

Supports short-term cultural projects to increase tourism and revenue

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingOpen

Waterloo Region International Plowing Match Fund Grants

Waterloo Region Community Foundation (WRCF)

Supports projects in agriculture, health, and education in Waterloo Region

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 4,000 $

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Educational services
Health care and social assistance

Types of eligible projects

Grant and FundingOpen

Sustainable Growth and Adoption Program (SGAP)

Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev)

Supports clean technology adoption and operational sustainability improvements

Eligible Funding

From $40,000 to $100,000
Up to 60% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation

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Frequently Asked Questions about Agricultural Funding in Ontario

Find answers to common questions about grants, eligibility, and funding programs for farmers and agri-businesses.

What grant opportunities are currently available to farmers in Ontario?

Are there specific grants available for young farmers in Ontario?

How does the FCC (Farm Credit Canada) support agriculture development through grants?

What is the deadline to apply for agriculture grants in Ontario this year?

What else should I know about Grants and Funding in Agriculture in Ontario?

Overview of Ontario Agricultural Funding Programs

Ontario offers several agricultural funding programs designed to support the diverse needs of its farming community. These programs, offered by both provincial and federal agencies, target different sectors within agriculture, providing financial assistance to producers, processors, and agri-businesses. The funding helps cover costs related to business development, innovation, market expansion, and environmental sustainability.

Types of Agricultural Grants

Agricultural grants in Ontario fall into various categories, each designed to address specific needs within the sector. These include:

Farm Grants:

Targeted directly at farmers, these grants help cover operational costs, infrastructure upgrades, and innovative farming techniques.
Agri-Food Business Grants:

These are aimed at businesses involved in food processing, distribution, and retail, helping them scale operations and adopt more efficient practices.
Innovation Grants:

Focused on promoting technological advancements in agriculture, these grants support research and the adoption of cutting-edge agricultural technologies.

Grant Programs for Farmers

Farmers in Ontario can access several grant programs, each tailored to support different stages of farm development. These programs cover everything from startup costs for new farmers to expansion and modernization for established farms. For instance, Farm Business Grants assist with purchasing equipment, adopting sustainable practices, and improving farm infrastructure.

Support Programs for Agricultural Businesses

Ontario's agri-business sector can benefit from a wide range of support programs. These include financial incentives for food processing companies, marketing assistance for local products, and innovation funding for businesses implementing new technologies. By helping agricultural businesses grow, these programs contribute to the economic development of rural communities.

Innovation Grants for Agricultural Development

Ontario places a strong emphasis on innovation in agriculture. Grants such as the Agricultural Development Innovation Fund are available to businesses that implement advanced technologies like precision farming, automation, and renewable energy sources. This funding helps make farming more efficient and environmentally sustainable while increasing overall productivity.

Key Organizations Offering Grants

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture:

The primary source of agricultural funding in the province, offering a wide array of grants for farmers and agri-businesses.
Canadian Agri-Food Funding Partnership:

A federal initiative that works with provincial governments to provide funding for agricultural innovation and business development.
Grantwatch Canada:

An online platform that lists various grant opportunities available to Canadian farmers, including those specific to Ontario.

Canadian Agri-Food Grant Programs

The Canadian Agri-Food Grant Programs are designed to support large-scale agricultural projects that aim to improve the food supply chain, promote sustainable practices, and foster innovation. These programs often include cost-share requirements, where applicants must cover a portion of the project cost while the grant covers the rest.

Agricultural Grants for Projects

Grants are also available for specific agricultural projects, ranging from farm expansion to sustainability initiatives. Farmers and businesses can apply for funding to implement projects that improve farm efficiency, reduce environmental impact, or expand their product lines. For example, a dairy farm might receive funding to install energy-efficient equipment, or a crop producer could get a grant for adopting water conservation techniques.

Intended Use of Funding

Agricultural grants in Ontario can be used for a variety of purposes. Some common uses include:

Upgrading farm equipment and technology
Expanding farm operations
Research and development for new agricultural practices
Environmental sustainability projects
Marketing and product development

Cost-Share Requirements

Many of Ontario's agricultural grants require cost-sharing, meaning that the recipient must cover a percentage of the project cost, with the grant covering the remainder. The percentage can vary depending on the program, but typically ranges from 25% to 50%. This ensures that both the business and the government share the financial responsibility for the project’s success.

Deadline for Grant Applications

Grant deadlines vary depending on the specific program. Some are available year-round, while others have specific submission periods. Applicants should closely monitor deadlines to ensure their projects are eligible for funding during the application period.

Support for Agricultural Innovation

Innovation is a key focus of Ontario’s agricultural funding programs. Grants support technological advancements that make farming more sustainable and efficient. For instance, grants are available for adopting renewable energy technologies on farms, such as solar power or biogas systems, or for developing new crop varieties that are more resistant to climate change.

Funding Opportunities for Agri-Businesses

Agri-businesses, such as food processors, distributors, and marketers, can also benefit from Ontario’s agricultural grant programs. Funding is available to help these businesses expand, adopt new technologies, and enter new markets. This financial support helps Ontario’s agri-food businesses remain competitive both domestically and internationally.

Collaborative Grants with International Partners

Ontario also encourages international collaboration in agriculture. Grants are available for projects that involve partnerships with international companies or research institutions, especially in areas like food security, sustainability, and innovation. These partnerships help Ontario businesses access global markets and adopt best practices from around the world.

Support for Ontario Farmers

Ontario farmers receive a significant amount of financial support through various provincial and federal grant programs. These programs focus on helping farmers increase productivity, reduce costs, and adopt sustainable farming practices. In addition to direct funding, farmers also benefit from support in areas like training, research, and market access.

Ontario Farmers' Grant Programs

Programs specifically designed for farmers in Ontario include grants for infrastructure upgrades, equipment purchases, and sustainable farming practices. For example, grants are available to support organic farming, renewable energy installations, and water conservation projects. These programs aim to make farming more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Grant Categories Based on Farming Sector

Ontario’s agricultural grants are often categorized based on the farming sector. For instance, there are specific grants for dairy, poultry, grain, and vegetable farmers. Each sector faces unique challenges, and the grant programs are tailored to address these specific needs, such as upgrading processing facilities, improving animal welfare, or adopting climate-smart farming practices.

Grants for Sustainable Farming Practices

Sustainability is a major focus of Ontario’s agricultural grant programs. Farmers can access funding to adopt sustainable farming practices that reduce environmental impact, such as precision agriculture, organic farming, and water conservation. These grants help farmers improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and conserve water resources.

Business Grants for Agricultural Development

Business development grants are available for agricultural companies looking to expand or diversify their operations. These grants can be used for market research, product development, and improving supply chain efficiency. By supporting business development, these grants help create more jobs and boost economic growth in rural areas.

Funding for Agri-Food Businesses

Ontario offers several funding opportunities for agri-food businesses, including grants for processing facilities, marketing initiatives, and product development. These grants help food producers scale their operations, adopt new technologies, and meet growing consumer demand for locally produced, sustainable food products.

Support Programs for Food Affairs

Food-related businesses, including those involved in processing, distribution, and retail, can also access grants to improve their operations. These support programs help food producers meet food safety standards, adopt sustainable practices, and access new markets, ensuring that Ontario’s food industry remains competitive and resilient.