How much funding can be received?

The Economic Development Initiative (EDI) for Northern Ontario provides funding to projects that foster economic growth within Francophone communities, supporting eligible activities such as enhancing governance, promoting cultural sectors, and developing niche products. The program offers up to 90% funding, with a maximum contribution of $57,500 towards internship-related expenses.

Financing terms and conditions

Funding covers up to 90% of eligible project costs; applicants must contribute at least 10%.
For internships, up to $35,000 annually may be provided for salary and benefits for up to 18 months (maximum $52,500 total).
Up to $5,000 is available for eligible ancillary costs (such as equipment and training), for a total maximum internship contribution of $57,500.

Eligible projects & activities

Projects that strengthen governance and leadership capacity within Francophone communities.
Initiatives that enhance the capacity or competitiveness of the Francophone arts and cultural sector.
Development of service delivery models or economic infrastructure to generate economic opportunities for Francophone communities.
Networking and collaboration projects to achieve tangible economic results or improve services for citizens in both official languages.
Creation of Francophone or bilingual youth internships to support project activities.

Eligibility criteria of the FedNor — Economic Development Initiative (EDI) program

The applicant must be a Francophone or other organization that undertakes project activities in both official languages.
The applicant must provide programs or services in French.
The organization must be located in Northern Ontario.
Eligible types of organizations include community and economic development corporations, not-for-profit organizations, sectoral associations, post-secondary institutions offering full-time French programs, and municipalities serving the Francophone community.
The project must be undertaken in French by, or for the benefit of, a Francophone client group.

Who is eligible?

Community and economic development corporations
Not-for-profit organizations
Sectoral associations
Post-secondary institutions that offer full-time programs of study in French
Municipalities serving the Francophone community in Northern Ontario

Who is not eligible

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including co-operatives.
Companies and organizations not located in Northern Ontario.
Businesses that do not provide programs or services in French or do not serve the Francophone community.
Organizations primarily involved in infrastructure for educational facilities, health care, retail, wholesale, accommodation, or administration.
Entities operating cultural, recreational, or tourism venues such as museums, libraries, cultural centres, recreation centres, tourist information/welcome centres, or arenas.

Eligible expenses

Fees for professional and technical services, including project implementation and engineering services.
Community engagement and planning costs, such as facilitation and facility rental.
Expenses related to producing and disseminating study or planning results.
Marketing costs, including design, promotional materials, advertising, product demonstrations, and participation at trade shows.
Travel expenses and labour costs related to the project.
Leasehold improvements.
Purchase of machinery, equipment, and technology.

Eligible geographic areas

Northern Ontario

Eligibility criteria of the FedNor — Economic Development Initiative (EDI) program

Extent to which the project generates net economic benefits for Northern Ontario.
Level of partnership-building among recipients, business partners, and stakeholders.
Contribution to enhancing opportunities to do business, work, and receive services in French, the region’s official minority language.
Degree of participation and support from the Francophone community.
Alignment with identified priorities and needs of the Francophone community, as per a strategic or community plan or consultations.
Contribution to the vitality of official language minority communities (OLMCs) and achievement of tangible results or improved services for citizens.
Demonstrated need for financial assistance to ensure project viability.
Complementarity of requested funding, ensuring it does not displace other government or external funding sources.

How to apply to the FedNor — Economic Development Initiative (EDI) program

Initial Contact

Contact a FedNor Officer by calling 1-877-333-6673 to discuss your project.
Engage in a preliminary discussion about the project’s alignment with EDI objectives and budget availability.

Application Preparation

Prepare a detailed project proposal that outlines the project activities and outcomes in line with EDI’s expected results.
Ensure that your proposal addresses the priorities and needs of the Francophone community as per strategic and/or community plans or consultations.
Compile all necessary supporting documents like financial projections, letters of support, and proof of eligibility.

Application Submission

Complete the application form through the designated FedNor submission portal or as otherwise directed by the FedNor Officer.
Attach all required documents and verify the accuracy of information.

Additional information

There is currently limited budget availability due to high demand; applicants should contact a FedNor officer before applying.
Completing an application does not guarantee funding approval, as all applications are assessed individually and are subject to funding availability.
Applications are reviewed for alignment with EDI objectives, merit, and the applicant's past results.