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Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario
Financing for SME growth in Northern Ontario
Last Update: May 6, 2026
Funding available
Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
This program supports Northern Ontario SMEs with financing for growth and competitiveness projects. It aims to modernize operations, improve access to capital, and expand trade and market reach, with support for eligible costs such as labour, equipment, leasehold improvements, professional services, and marketing.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Increase production or service capacity
- Increase operational productivity
Eligible Funding
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
- Manufacturing
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- 500 employees maximum
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Rural or Northern Residents
- Canadians
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Projects that increase the capacity and competitiveness of Northern Ontario SMEs.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Incorporated SMEs.
- Indigenous businesses, including First Nation, Métis, and Inuit businesses.
- Manufacturers and value-added businesses in mining supply, forestry, clean technology, bioeconomy, and agri-food.
Who is not eligible
- Retail and wholesale businesses.
- Construction businesses.
- Tourism businesses.
- Service-based businesses.
Eligible expenses
- Labour costs, including wages and benefits.
- Machinery and equipment purchases, with related training fees.
- Leasehold improvements.
- Professional, advisory, and technical services.
- Marketing costs tied to a larger project, including design, promotional materials, and trade show participation.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Costs not directly related to eligible project activities.
- Regular maintenance and ongoing operating costs.
- Regular capital replacements, debt refinancing, and assets above fair market value.
- Land and building purchases, rolling stock, amortization, goodwill, and contingency fees.
- Costs incurred before the eligibility date.
Eligible geographic areas
- Northern Ontario.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are assessed as they are received.
- Review includes the business case, financial projections, and factors that could affect project success.
- Funding approval depends on available budget.
- Completing an application does not guarantee approval.
Additional information
- Applicants are asked to contact a FedNor officer before applying.
- Funding is currently limited due to high demand.
- Government financial assistance may have tax implications.
- Projects with public communications may need information in both official languages.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario?
This program supports Northern Ontario SMEs with financing for growth and competitiveness projects. It aims to modernize operations, improve access to capital, and expand trade and market reach, with support for eligible costs such as labour, equipment, leasehold improvements, professional services, and marketing.
How much funding can be received?
Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario program?
To be eligible for the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario program, you must:
Incorporated SME with fewer than 500 employees.
Must be able to enter into a legal agreement.
Project benefits must accrue to Northern Ontario.
What expenses are eligible under Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario?
Projects that increase the capacity and competitiveness of Northern Ontario SMEs.
Who can I contact for more information about the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario?
You can contact Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor) or by phone at 1-877-333-6673.
Where is the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario available?
The Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Business Growth and Competitiveness (BG&C) in Northern Ontario is a Grant and Funding