Rural Ontario Development (ROD) funding now open to more rural Hamilton businesses

Crista Cooper
Oct 6
2 min read

Updated: Oct 7

Through the leadership of Councillor Mark Tadeson, working alongside Councillors Tammy Hwang, Jeff Beattie, and Maureen Wilson, the ROMA delegation, Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) President Drew Spoelstra, and City staff, Hamilton's rural business community is now eligible for Ontario's Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program. This achievement opens new opportunities for rural businesses to access funding for digital upgrades, workforce training, and strategic business development initiatives.

Who is eligible

Businesses located in rural Hamilton with postal codes L0R, N0B, or L0P
A rural postal code has 0 as the second character
Business must be open and operating at the time of application
Typical eligibility includes having 1 to 20 employees and being assessed in agricultural, commercial, or industrial property classes

Funding available

Up to 35% of eligible costs
Maximum $10,000 per application
First come, first served to eligible applicants and projects
One application per business, with the option to include multiple project types
Four intake periods are planned between 2025 and 2027
Projects approved in the first intake must be completed by March 31, 2026

Examples of eligible project costs

Professional services such as consultants and business planning
Technology and software to modernize operations
Marketing and promotion to reach new customers and markets
Training and professional development for owners and staff
Training-related travel and market development travel
Minor accessibility-related capital improvements that remove barriers for customers and employees

Examples of ineligible costs

Ongoing operating expenses, events, hospitality, or giveaways
Major capital such as land, buildings, or heavy equipment
Web hosting or software renewals that are routine operating costs
Lobbying, permit fees, or any prepaid costs incurred before approval

Program goals

The Province aims to support:

Business retention, expansion, and attraction
Workforce development and skills training
Digital and operational transformation for small rural firms
Barrier reduction and inclusive access
Partnerships and investment that build long-term rural resilience

How to apply

Confirm that your address is within L0R, N0B, or L0P and that your postal code’s second character is 0.
Review the program guidelines to verify your business eligibility and project eligibility.
Prepare your project scope, budget, and timeline, and gather supporting documents.
Submit your application during the next intake window. Remember that funds are first come, first served.

Local support

For advice on structuring your project or questions about eligibility, contact:

Tyson McMann, Business Development Consultant, Agri-Food & Food and Beverage Processing, City of Hamilton Economic Development

Email: tyson.mcmann@hamilton.ca

Acknowledgements

This opportunity reflects sustained advocacy by Councillor Mark Tadeson, the ROMA delegation including Councillors Tammy Hwang, Jeff Beattie, Maureen Wilson, OFA President Drew Spoelstra, and City staff.