Rural and north
Information about Northern Ontario, agriculture and local food. Learn about funding programs that support rural, northern and Indigenous communities.
Northern Ontario
Crown land
Learn about the economic development, tourism and recreation opportunities on Ontario’s Crown land.
Far North
How we partner with First Nations communities to protect the environment and spur economic development in the Far North.
Northern development
Information to help start a business, access support services or invest in Northern Ontario.
Ring of Fire
Learn about mining opportunities for the Ring of Fire and development in the Far North.
Mining and minerals
Information about mining claims, geology and mineral development in Ontario.
Winter roads
Learn about Northern Ontario’s ice roads and how they connect the Far North to the rest of the province.
Northern Highways Program
Find Northern Ontario highway expansion and rehabilitation projects that are planned or underway.
Northern Ontario agriculture resources
Learn about the resources provided for agriculture in Northern Ontario.
Agriculture and food
Find resources and information on topics including crops, livestock, manufacturing, funding and research.
Rural economic development funding, programs and resources
Explore the programs, tools and resources available to communities for economic development and revitalization projects.
Rural Economic Development (RED)
Get money to improve your rural community’s economy.
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
Explore funding opportunities for community, business and non-profit projects.
Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF)
How to apply for funding to support infrastructure projects in small communities.
Grassroots Growth Program (GGP)
Explore how you can help provide broader opportunities and greater benefits for the agri-food sector and rural communities in Ontario.
Agriculture Economic Development Program
Find out how you can support local agriculture to promote economic growth in your community.
Analyst: economic analysis software
If you’re part of an organization you may be eligible to access industry and job trends for your region.
Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E)
Learn how to strengthen businesses in your community.
Community Immigrant Retention in Rural Ontario (CIRRO)
Help newcomers and youth settle in your community and keep it economically vibrant.
Downtown Revitalization (DR)
Learn the steps you can take to make your rural community’s downtown area vibrant and appealing.
First Impressions Community Exchange (FICE)
Discover how well your community serves visitors.
Performance measurement for agriculture, agri-food and economic development organizations
Read our guide on how to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of projects, programs and initiatives, as it relates to economic development.
Contact us
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
Growing Ontario’s agri-food sector and supporting rural communities, helping to create a stronger economy for the province.
Ministry of Northern Development
Promoting economic and community development in Northern Ontario with business support services, grants and loans.
Ministry of Mines
Overseeing Ontario’s mineral sector, providing geoscience information and supporting sustainable development in the Ring of Fire.
Ministry of Natural Resources
Protecting Ontario’s biodiversity while promoting economic opportunities in the resource sector and supporting outdoor recreation opportunities.
Ministry of Indigenous Affairs
Working to ensure a better future for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
Ministry of Energy
Working to develop a safe, reliable and affordable energy supply across the province.