Ontario Protecting Workers and Jobs in Rural Communities

June 24, 2025

• In January, our government announced $20 million over the next two years to help rural communities attract investment and create new jobs and opportunities for rural workers.
• In the face of tariffs and economic uncertainty, this expanded funding will support the government’s plan to protect rural Ontario communities by encouraging economic development and helping keep workers on the job.

• Eligible rural municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and small businesses can apply for funding until September 24, 2025.
• The ROD Program is part of Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy, our government’s roadmap for investing in the continued strength of rural communities across the province.