Community Enhancement Program — Rural Enhancement Funding Stream
At a glance
- Max. $500,000
- 90% of project cost
- Open Date : February 11, 2021
- All industries
- Government of Ontario
- Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation
Overview
Eligibility criteria
The Rural Enhancement Funding Stream is designed to support priorities of rural communities with populations of less than 30,000 to contribute to healthy and strong communities. Eligible applicants include rural municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards.
- Rural municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards with populations of less than 30,000 are eligible.
Who is eligible
Eligible entities for the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream include rural municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards with a population of less than 30,000.
- Rural municipalities
- Indigenous communities
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Local Services Boards
Eligible expenses
Eligible expenses for the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream include incremental improvements, repairs, and/or renovations to extend the useful life of capital assets such as social and recreational facilities, municipal assets, and community halls, that contribute to a healthy and vibrant community.
- Incremental improvements
- Repairs
- Renovations
Eligible projects & activities
Projects eligible for the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream include incremental improvements, repairs, and/or renovations to enhance and extend the life of capital assets such as social and recreational facilities, municipal assets, and community halls that contribute to a vibrant community. Exceptions may be considered for projects addressing priority needs in Northern Ontario.
- Incremental improvements to capital assets
- Repairs and renovations to social and recreational facilities
- Enhancements to municipal assets
- Improvements to community halls
Evaluation & selection criteria
Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream grant.
- Identification and alignment with a planning process such as community or organizational plan
- How the project builds on and optimizes the capacity and efficiency of existing infrastructure
- Strength of project plan that identifies the technical, managerial, and financial capacity for implementing the project and sustaining the facility
- Applicant should demonstrate how an NOHFC investment is necessary to make the project viable
How to apply
- Review the eligibility requirements and guidelines provided for the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream
- Prepare a project proposal that aligns with the eligible projects criteria
- Determine the total project costs and the percentage of funding you are requesting
- Complete the application form with all necessary details and supporting documents
- Submit the application within the specified deadline
- Wait for the evaluation and decision from the NOHFC Board of Directors
- If approved, ensure compliance with the program requirements and reporting obligations
- Implement the project according to the approved proposal
Rural Enhancement Funding Stream
The Rural Enhancement Funding Stream is a financial support program aimed at rural municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards with a population under 30,000, to enhance and strengthen community infrastructure. Eligible projects include improvements and renovations to various capital assets such as social and recreational facilities and municipal assets, aligning with community plans and sustainability.
Understanding the NOHFC Rural Enhancement Funding Stream
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) offers the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream to empower rural communities to address their needs for enhanced infrastructure and facilities. Eligible entities for this funding include rural municipalities, Indigenous communities, not-for-profit organizations, and Local Services Boards serving populations below 30,000. The program supports incremental improvements, repairs, and renovations that extend the life of capital assets vital for community vitality and wellness.
The evaluation criteria for project applications focus on factors like alignment with community or organizational plans, optimizing existing infrastructure, and demonstrating technical, managerial, and financial capacity for project implementation and sustainability. Additionally, applicants must show that funding from NOHFC is essential to the project's viability.
Funding under this program is provided in the form of a conditional contribution, with varying levels of support based on the population served by the applicant. For communities under 1,500 and Indigenous communities, funding can cover up to 90% of total eligible costs, capped at $200,000, while larger communities can receive up to 75% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $500,000. The actual funding amount is determined by the NOHFC Board of Directors, considering the project's merits and available resources.
While the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream supports a wide range of projects, there are exclusions such as core infrastructure like roads and bridges, administrative space, residential projects, and operating expenses. Projects like rolling stock, standalone equipment and furniture purchases, and certain studies are also ineligible for funding.
Applicants must own the buildings, facilities, or land improved with NOHFC funding, and in specific cases, reimbursement may be required if assets financed by NOHFC are sold within three years of project completion. The program does not fund operational expenses or activities such as salary, rent, office equipment, or marketing, as outlined in the guidelines.
To apply for funding under the Rural Enhancement Funding Stream, interested organizations should carefully review the grant requirements and eligibility criteria. Projects that align with community priorities, enhance infrastructure, and contribute to the overall well-being of rural communities have the potential to receive financial support from the NOHFC, helping to create healthier, more vibrant rural environments.
