Northern Ontario Development Program — Community Economic Development

Who is eligible?

• Not-for-profit organizations
• Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit) communities and organizations
• Municipalities and municipal organizations

Who is not eligible

• Companies involved in infrastructure for social goals, such as educational or health care facilities (e.g., hospices, long-term care facilities, health centres).
• Businesses focused on infrastructure for retail, wholesale, accommodation, or administrative purposes.
• Organizations whose primary activities are of a social or recreational nature, including museums, libraries, cultural centres, recreation centres, tourist information/welcome centres, arenas, and waste management disposal.
• Entities delivering general government services.

Eligible expenses

• Fees for professional and technical services, including project implementation and engineering services.
• Costs related to community engagement and planning, such as facilitation and facility rentals.
• Expenses for producing and disseminating results of studies or plans.
• Marketing costs, including design, promotional materials, advertising, product demonstrations, and trade show participation.
• Travel expenses and labour costs directly linked to the project.
• Capital costs such as servicing of industrial lands, waterfront development, leasehold improvements, and acquisition of machinery, equipment, and technology.

Eligible geographic areas

• Northern Ontario

• The program currently faces limited budget availability due to high demand.
• Applicants must discuss their project with a FedNor officer before submitting an application.
• Projects may need to address the requirements of the Impact Assessment Act, 2019, and reflect the spirit and intent of the Official Languages Act.
• Applicants are required to use a fair, competitive, and transparent procurement process for purchasing supplies, equipment, or hiring personnel.