Northern Ontario Government Funding: Targeted Manufacturing Initiative
In 2014, Northern Ontario experienced a 3.4% decrease in population from 803,000 to 776,000 (OMF). This migration impacts the labour talent pool in the region for local businesses. Fortunately, FedNor is committed to improving the outlook of Northern Ontario businesses through support services and Canadian Government funding to encourage business activity and hiring in the region. This can be seen in FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), a small business funding program which was created to spur economic activity in the region and thus creating jobs and curbing the population decline.
Northern Ontario Development Program – Targeted Manufacturing Initiative
As part of the Northern Ontario Development Program, FedNor offers the Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario to support productivity improvement projects. This stream of NODP has the following objectives:
- Enhanced manufacturing capability;
- Efficient production facilities;
- Modernized and competitive manufacturing sector in Northern Ontario; and
- Increased export sales and profitability.
This Ontario government funding will be provided as repayable funding covering up to 33% of eligible capital costs and 50% of eligible non-capital costs. Repayment terms and interest rates are determined on a case-by-case basis and applicants can apply on a continuous basis.
NODP Repayable Funding for Businesses: Eligibility Factors
NODP provides government funding for small business modernization. Projects must revolve around the implementation of advanced technologies to reduce internal costs and improve efficiencies within the production process. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Production audits or operational assessments (i.e. Lean manufacturing, ISO, quality controls, ICT);
- Plant equipment;
- Business systems (i.e. ERP and CRM systems); and
The NODP Targeted Manufacturing Initiative is meant for established manufacturers located in Northern Ontario with 500 or fewer employees. The business’ primary activity must be related to manufacturing a commercial product. Applicants can include both capital and non-capital costs into their project budgets.
Applying for NODP Government Funding for Small Business
Northern Ontario manufacturers can apply for this Ontario government funding by completing Phase 1, an Initial Application. FedNor will evaluate the Initial Application within 5 business days to advise the proponent if they are eligible to apply for project assistance, at which point they will be instructed to submit a Detailed Application as Phase 2, which includes the application form, work plan, financial statements, incorporation documents, and other documentation as required by FedNor.
Get Started with Canadian Government Funding
Government funding for small business activities is available on both the federal and provincial levels. Whether your business is buying new equipment, conducting R&D, or hiring and training your workforce, Canadian government funding is available to support you. Register for an upcoming complimentary Webinar/Workshop Government Funding for Small Business to learn more. Do you already have a project or program in mind? Contact us to get started.