Ontario, Canada
Eligible Funding
- Up to 8% of project cost
Eligible Industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projects
Innovation
Ontario, Canada
Startup Grants in Ontario in 2026
Ontario startup grants and funding can help founders launch, validate, hire, commercialize, and grow without relying only on equity. Compare support options for early-stage businesses, including grants, loans, tax credits, accelerators, and regional programs across Ontario.
Featured grants for Startups in Ontario at a glance
177 programs available
Expert AdviceOpenOntario Food Exports — Services for Exporters
Government of Ontario, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFRA)Food and beverage industry export help in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale trade
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenRegional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) for Northern Ontario
Funding AI commercialization and adoption in Northern Ontario businessesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Up to 75% of project cost
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovationOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenFedDev — Funding for southern Ontario
Funding for businesses in southern Ontario by FedDev Ontario.Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $125,000 to $10,000,000
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationTimeline- Open Date : February 3, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenRetail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)
Supports Ontario SMEs in adopting and implementing digital technologiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Eligible Industries- Retail trade
- Accommodation and food services
- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyDigital TransformationOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenINVEST North Program — Innovation Stream
Supports innovative technology projects in Northern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 2,000,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyConstruction and Renovation InnovationOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenOVIN — Electric Vehicle (EV) — Stream 1
Money for electric vehicle related technologiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 100,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationTimeline- Open Date : August 15, 2023
Ontario, Canada
Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationInnovationTimeline- Open Date : August 1, 2024
Ontario, Canada
Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyOntario, Canada
Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenCanada’s Next Sustainable Changemaker Challenge
Supports startups reducing greenhouse gas emissionsToronto, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Utilities
- Construction
- Real estate and rental and leasing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationToronto, Ontario, Canada
Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and RenovationTimeline- Open Date : December 21, 2021
Ontario, Canada
Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationLoans and Capital investmentsOpenVentures at Coralus
Community capital for impact-driven venturesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Up to 45% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Health care and social assistance
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
- Other services (except public administration)
Types of eligible projectsEnvironment and ClimateInnovationOntario, Canada
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenACCFutures — ACC Term
Flexible business loans for growth and expansionOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $20,000 to $300,000
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and Renovation Business BuyoutOntario, Canada- Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
ACCFutures — ACC TermStartup
Startup financing for businesses in Eastern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $20,000 to $300,000
Eligible Industries- Retail trade
- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and Renovation Business BuyoutOntario, Canada 
Other SupportGrant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpenAdvanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream
Support for advanced manufacturing growth in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000,000 $
- Up to 15% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyHuman ResourcesInnovationTimeline- Open Date : June 30, 2026
- Closing date : September 23, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Other SupportResearchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenBioCreate Program
Funding and mentorship for Ontario biotech SMEsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 150,000 $
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Ontario, Canada- Expert AdviceOpen
Business advisory services for small and medium-sized businesses
Tailored advisory support for Ontario SMEsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationOntario, Canada 
Expert AdviceOpenBusiness and Community Services
Business advice and community planning in the Patricia Region, OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada
Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceOpenCatalyst and Transformation Fund
Funding for creative sector restructuringOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 20,000 $
Types of eligible projectsHuman ResourcesBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Open Date : February 3, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingTax CreditsOpenCity of Brantford - New Industrial Sector Financial Incentives
Financial support for eligible industrial projectsBrantford, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 3,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and RenovationTimeline- Open Date : May 1, 2026
Brantford, Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpenCommunity Futures Network of Canada
Local business support for rural entrepreneursOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 150,000 $
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsBusiness BuyoutInnovationOntario, Canada
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenCommunity Futures Ontario — Access to Capital
Repayable financing for small businesses and social enterprisesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Minimum amount : 150,000 $
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada- Expert AdviceOpen
Community Futures Ontario — Business Information and Planning Services
Business services for Ontario small businessesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada 
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenCommunity Futures Program
Alternative financing for Northumberland businessesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 250,000 $
Eligible Industries- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and RenovationOntario, CanadaDiscover how much grant funding is available for your business
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- Grant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Eastern Ontario Development Fund
Supports business growth in Eastern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 1,500,000 $
- Up to 15% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateHuman ResourcesInnovationTimeline- Open Date : June 30, 2026
- Closing date : September 23, 2026
Ontario, Canada - Expert AdviceOpen
FedDev Ontario Small Business Services — Community Partners
Local business support across OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada - Grant and FundingOpen
Forest Biomass Program — Exploring biomass pathways stream
Ontario's Forest Biomass Program: fostering sustainable economic growthOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 130,000 $
- Up to 80% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationTimeline- Closing date : November 30, 2026
Ontario, Canada - Grant and FundingOpen
Forest Biomass Program — Innovative bioproduct manufacturing stream
Supports forest biomass innovation and utilization in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationTimeline- Open Date : June 1, 2026
- Closing date : December 1, 2026
Ontario, Canada 
Grant and FundingOpenForest Sector Investment and Innovation Program — Collaboration projects
Funding for collaborative forestry projects in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $3,000,000 to $3,000,000
- Up to 30% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyConstruction and Renovation InnovationTimeline- Open Date : March 24, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpenGeneral Business Loans
Financing for business development in Two Rivers, OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 1,150,000 $
- Up to 90% of project cost
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationOntario, Canada- Grant and FundingOpen
Genomic Applications Partnership Program (GAPP)
Genomic Applications Partnership Program funds genomics-derived R&D projectsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $100,000 to $6,000,000
- Up to 1% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : February 3, 2026
Ontario, Canada - Other SupportResearchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceOpen
Hardware Catalyst Initiative
No-cost incubation for hardware and semiconductor companiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : February 5, 2024
Ontario, Canada 
Expert AdviceOpenInnovation Canada — Innovation Advisors in ON
Personalized advisory services for innovators in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyInnovationOntario, Canada
Other SupportExpert AdviceOpenInnovation Factory — Support for Startups
Free advisory support for Ontario startupsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationHuman ResourcesDigital TransformationTimeline- Open Date : December 14, 2022
Ontario, Canada
Expert AdviceOpenInnovation Guelph — Boundless Startup Program
Resources for innovative entrepreneurs and startupsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsInnovationOntario, Canada
Other SupportExpert AdviceOpenInnovator Membership Program
Business support for innovative entrepreneursOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationInnovationTimeline- Open Date : May 31, 2023
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenIntellectual Property Fund (IP Fund)
Funding for Ontario screen content development and productionOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $5,000 to $500,000
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyTimeline- Closing date : September 14, 2026
Ontario, Canada- Grant and FundingOpen
INVEST North Program — Investment – Locate Stream
Supports businesses relocating operations to Northern Ontario for economic growthOntario, CanadaEligible 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 projectsCommercializationConstruction and Renovation Digital TransformationOntario, Canada - Grant and FundingOpen
INVEST North Program — Investment — Launch Stream
Financial aid to start a business in Northern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 200,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationConstruction and Renovation Digital TransformationOntario, Canada 
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenInvest Ontario Fund (IOF)
Ontario supports strategic investments and job creation in priority sectorsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyInnovationOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenInvest Ottawa Accelerator Program
Expert advice for high-growth technology firmsOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyHuman ResourcesInnovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada- Ottawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding
- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada - Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
Invest Ottawa Scale-Up Platform
Growth support for high-potential tech companiesOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyTimeline- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada 
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenInvestment Accelerator Fund
Early-stage capital for Ontario tech foundersOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 500,000 $
Eligible Industries- Information and cultural industries
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyOntario, Canada- Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
Kenora and Rainy River District Business Accelerator Fund
Supports business growth in Kenora and Rainy River DistrictsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 10,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyHuman ResourcesInnovationDigital TransformationOntario, Canada 
Grant and FundingOpenKincardine Start-up Space Leasehold Improvement Program CIP
Funding for downtown leasehold improvements and accessibility upgradesKincardine, Tiverton, OntarioEligible Funding- From $500 to $50
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and RenovationTimeline- Closing date : August 28, 2026
Kincardine, Tiverton, Ontario
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenLaunch Lab — Entrepreneurs In Residence (EIR)
Assistance for technology based businesses in Southern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationOntario, Canada- Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 500,000 $
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : January 26, 2023
Ontario, Canada - Partnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceOpen
MaRS — Supply AI
Canadian AI supply chain ventures accelerator programOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyOntario, Canada Access over 10 000 different funding opportunities
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- Expert AdviceOpen
MaRS Growth Acceleration Program
Support for executives of scaling, high-growth companiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Information and cultural industries
- Finance and insurance
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
Types of eligible projectsInnovationOntario, Canada - Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
MaRS Momentum
Strategic support for scaling high-growth companiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : April 3, 2023
Ontario, Canada - Other SupportGrant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Municipality of Kincardine - Community Improvement Plan Grants
Funding for Kincardine development and improvement projectsKincardine, Tiverton, OntarioEligible Funding- From $500 to $50,000
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsConstruction and RenovationTimeline- Closing date : August 28, 2026
Kincardine, Tiverton, Ontario 
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenMuskoka Starter Company Plus
Funding and mentorship for growing businessesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsInnovationTimeline- Open Date : June 1, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenNADF Financing
Financing for Northern Ontario Indigenous business and economic developmentOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 500,000 $
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenNewcomer Entrepreneur Accelerator Program
Accelerator for newcomer-led Canadian tech companiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyHuman ResourcesTimeline- Open Date : June 18, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsInnovationOntario, Canada- Grant and FundingOpen
Northern Technology Accelerator Program (NTAP)
Supports Northern Ontario SMEs adopting innovative technology solutionsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 10,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Retail trade
- Transportation and warehousing
- Information and cultural industries
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyInnovationDigital TransformationOntario, Canada 
Other SupportResearchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceOpenNRC — Canadian Centre for Housing Technology
Real-life testing support for housing innovationsOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Utilities
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation InnovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada- Other SupportResearchers And FacilitiesExpert AdviceOpen
NRC — Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre
Photonic device fabrication servicesOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)InnovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada - Researchers And FacilitiesExpert AdviceOpen
NRC — Hygrothermal performance of buildings testing facilities
Energy efficient building testing in OttawaOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Construction
- Manufacturing
Types of eligible projectsEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and RenovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada - Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceOpen
NRC — Nanotechnology Research Centre
Collaborative quantum and nanotechnology research supportOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada - Other SupportResearchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationOpen
NRC — Printable Electronics - Ottawa research facility
Applied research for printable electronics solutionsOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationOttawa, Ontario, Canada 
Expert AdviceOpenOBIO — Early Adopter Health Network (EAHN)
Partnerships for Canadian health technologiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 250,000 $
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Ontario, Canada- Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
OCI — Ready 4 Market (R4M)
Co-investment for Ontario technology start-upsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 250,000 $
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationInnovationOntario, Canada 
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenOCLF — Small Business Loans
Offers loans for small business startup or expansionOttawa, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 15,000 $
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationBusiness BuyoutOttawa, Ontario, Canada- Tax CreditsOpen
Ontario Business Research Institute Tax Credit (OBRITC)
Refundable tax credit for Ontario research contractsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 4,000,000 $
- Up to 20% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Educational services
- Health care and social assistance
Types of eligible projectsInnovationOntario, Canada - Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding
- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Finance and insurance
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada - Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 10,000,000 $
- Up to 0.8% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation InnovationTimeline- Closing date : October 15, 2026
Ontario, Canada - Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Ontario Music Investment Fund
Supports Ontario music business growthOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $10,000 to $125,000
- Up to 75% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationHuman ResourcesInnovationDigital TransformationTimeline- Closing date : September 10, 2026
Ontario, Canada - Tax CreditsOpen
Ontario small business deduction (SBD)
Reduces Ontario corporate tax for eligible CCPCsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Up to 8.3% of project cost
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsOntario, Canada - Other SupportGrant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF)
Supports Ontario businesses to strengthen supply chains and expand marketsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $200,000 to $5,000,000
- Up to 75% of project cost
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyHuman ResourcesInnovationOntario, Canada - Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpen
OVIN — TalentEdge Fellowship
Funding for automotive and smart mobility fellowshipsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $35,000 to $70,000
- Up to 70% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : May 6, 2022
Ontario, Canada - Partnering and CollaborationWage Subsidies And InternsOpen
OVIN — TalentEdge Internship
Support for automotive and mobility internshipsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $30,000 to $60,000
- Up to 50% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsArtificial Intelligence (AI)InnovationTimeline- Open Date : May 4, 2022
Ontario, Canada - Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
People & Talent Program — Workforce Development Stream
Wage subsidy to hire interns in Northern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 35,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsHuman ResourcesOntario, Canada Find tailored funding for your business
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Loans and Capital investmentsOpenRise — Small Business Lending
Low-interest loans and mentorship for small businessesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 10,000 $
Eligible Industries- Retail trade
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
Types of eligible projectsBusiness BuyoutOntario, Canada
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenSouthern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII)
Financing for innovative SMEs in Southern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $150,000 to $500,000
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationOntario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenStarter Company Plus - Kingston
Business training and startup funding supportKingston, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsHuman ResourcesBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Closing date : August 28, 2026
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenStarter Company Plus - Markham
Business support and funding for Markham entrepreneursMarkham, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsTimeline- Open Date : July 1, 2026
- Closing date : August 9, 2026
Markham, Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenStarter Company Plus - Peterborough
Entrepreneur training with mentorship and micro-grant supportPeterborough, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Closing date : August 5, 2026
Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpenStarter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex
Business start-up and growth support for entrepreneursOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationConstruction and Renovation Business BuyoutTimeline- Closing date : July 15, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenStarter Company Plus Training & Mentorship Program - Hamilton Business Centre
Training and mentorship for new Hamilton businessesHamilton, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
- Up to 25% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Closing date : September 7, 2026
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada- Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding
- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsTimeline- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Ontario, Canada - Other SupportExpert AdviceOpen
ventureLAB — Capital Investment Program
Capital support for hardtech and deeptech startupsMarkham, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
Types of eligible projectsArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovationMarkham, Ontario, Canada 
Loans and Capital investmentsOpenVERGE Capital — Breakthrough Fund
Loans for impact-driven ventures in Southwestern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Retail trade
- Health care and social assistance
Types of eligible projectsInnovationOntario, Canada- Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
VERGE Capital — Startup Fund
Loans for social enterprises in Southwestern OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Eligible Industries- All industries
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationEnvironment and ClimateOntario, Canada - Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Women in Business Program
Financing and support for Indigenous women entrepreneursOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 50,000 $
Types of eligible projectsHuman ResourcesTimeline- Open Date : December 21, 2022
Ontario, Canada 
Grant and FundingOpenWTC Toronto — Growth Development Program
Leadership program for AI transformationToronto, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsArtificial Intelligence (AI)Digital TransformationTimeline- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenClosing SoonNiagara Falls Starter Company Plus
Business startup and growth support in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
- Up to 25% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Open Date : June 22, 2026
- Closing date : July 31, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpenClosing SoonSarnia-Lambton Starter Company Plus
Funding and mentorship for local business growthOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
- Up to 25% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Open Date : June 15, 2026
- Closing date : July 15, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingOpening SoonStarter Company Plus - St. Catharines
Training and mentorship for new businessesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Types of eligible projectsBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Open Date : July 6, 2026
- Closing date : August 6, 2026
Ontario, Canada
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceClosedStarter Company Plus
Training and funding for Toronto entrepreneursToronto, Ontario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
- Up to 25% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationBusiness BuyoutTimeline- Open Date : November 14, 2019
- Closing date : February 25, 2026
Toronto, Ontario, Canada- Grant and FundingClosed
Innovative Solutions Canada - Advanced technologies for open-source intelligence due diligence
AI solutions for research security and open-source intelligence advancementOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 1,500,000 $
Types of eligible projectsArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : July 3, 2025
- Closing date : August 14, 2025
Ontario, Canada 
Grant and FundingClosedAcceleratiON Program
Supports Black and Indigenous-owned music businesses in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $2,500 to $20,000
- Up to 100% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationHuman ResourcesTimeline- Closing date : November 13, 2025
Ontario, Canada- Grant and FundingClosed
Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program (IFIT) — Business projects
Financial assistance for forestry projects in OntarioOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- From $3,000,000 to $3,000,000
- Up to 30% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : March 21, 2025
- Closing date : April 29, 2025
Ontario, Canada 
Grant and FundingClosedGrains Innovation Fund
Supports innovation and market growth for Ontario grain projectsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 75,000 $
- Up to 60% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationInnovationTimeline- Closing date : October 31, 2025
Ontario, Canada- Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceClosed
Capital Access Advisory Program (CAAP) — Building Companies
Support for health science companies raising capitalOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTimeline- Closing date : April 30, 2026
Ontario, Canada - Grant and FundingClosed
Interactive Digital Media Fund — Production
Archived support for interactive digital media projectsOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Varies by project
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyDigital TransformationTimeline- Open Date : April 29, 2024
- Closing date : December 18, 2024
Ontario, Canada - Grant and FundingClosed
C/AV and Smart Mobility — Stream 1
Supports development of connected vehicle and smart mobility technologiesOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 100,000 $
- Up to 100% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsTechnologyTimeline- Open Date : September 7, 2022
- Closing date : February 9, 2023
Ontario, Canada - Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed
Electric Vehicle (EV) — Stream 2
Ontario EV co-investment for technology developmentOntario, CanadaEligible Funding- Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
- Up to 33% of project cost
Types of eligible projectsCommercializationTechnologyInnovationTimeline- Open Date : April 3, 2023
- Closing date : November 7, 2023
Ontario, Canada
Frequently asked questions about startup grants in Ontario
Practical answers for Ontario founders comparing grants, loans, tax credits, startup programs, and application timing in 2026.
What startup grants are available in Ontario in 2026?
Ontario startups can find support through local programs such as Starter Company Plus, innovation and commercialization funding, sector accelerators, municipal small-business programs, tax credits, and federal or regional funding that applies to Ontario. The right fit depends on the project stage, location, sector, eligible expenses, and whether the program is currently open.
Can a brand-new Ontario business apply before it has revenue?
Sometimes. Startup-friendly programs may accept new businesses when the founder has a clear plan, realistic budget, defined market, and evidence that the project can be completed. Other programs require incorporation, Ontario operations, matching funds, financial forecasts, first customers, or proof that the business has already launched.
Are startup loans the same as startup grants?
No. A grant usually does not need to be repaid if the applicant follows the program rules. A loan or repayable contribution must be repaid, even when it comes with mentoring, favourable terms, or no collateral. Many Ontario founders use both: grants or tax credits for eligible project costs, and loans or investment for broader working capital.
What costs can Ontario startup funding cover?
Eligible costs vary by program. Common categories include product development, prototype validation, equipment, software, research, commercialization, market development, export preparation, hiring, training, business advisory services, and some launch expenses. Routine operating costs, owner salaries, past expenses, and general advertising may be excluded unless the program specifically allows them.
Can Toronto startups combine municipal, Ontario, and federal funding?
Often, yes, but each program has stacking rules. Toronto founders may be able to compare municipal programs, Ontario innovation or small-business supports, and federal funding tools. Before combining sources, map every funder, eligible cost, approval date, contribution percentage, and reporting obligation so the same expense is not claimed twice.
What documents should founders prepare before applying?
Most applications require a project description, budget, timeline, supplier quotes, incorporation or registration details, proof of Ontario operations, ownership information, resumes or founder bios, financial statements or forecasts, and expected results. Innovation programs may also ask for technical milestones, intellectual property details, customer validation, or partner letters.
Should an Ontario startup use grants, tax credits, loans, or equity?
Use grants and vouchers for defined eligible projects, tax credits for qualifying research, media, hiring, or investment activity, loans for working capital or larger repayable needs, and equity when speed, team growth, or market expansion matters more than dilution. Many startups build a funding stack, but every source should match the timing and cost category of the project.
When should I apply for Ontario startup funding?
Apply before committing costs whenever possible. Many programs will not reimburse expenses incurred before approval, and competitive intakes can close quickly. Build the application around a specific project, confirm deadlines, gather quotes, and leave time for clarification questions before signing contracts or starting work.
What else should I know about Grants and Funding for Startups in Ontario?
How Ontario startup funding usually works
Startup funding in Ontario is not one single program. Founders usually compare several paths: local startup grants and mentoring, youth entrepreneur financing, research and development support, commercialization programs, municipal small-business funding, sector accelerators, and tax credits.
The best match depends on your company stage, location, founder profile, sector, eligible costs, and project outcome. A pre-revenue startup may need a different program than a company validating a prototype, hiring its first team, expanding into the United States, or commercializing a technology product.
What Ontario founders can compare here
- Find Ontario programs that may fit startup and early-stage business projects.
- Compare grants, repayable contributions, loans, tax credits, and advisory support in one list.
- Check whether a program fits launch costs, product validation, hiring, training, export, technology, or commercialization work.
- Prioritize programs before preparing a business plan, quotes, financial forecasts, or application package.
Before you apply
Confirm that the program is open, that your costs are eligible, and that spending can start only when the rules allow it. Many funders ask for a project plan, budget, supplier quotes, financial statements or forecasts, incorporation details, proof of Ontario operations, and measurable outcomes such as jobs, revenue, investment readiness, productivity, or market validation.