Ontario Investing to Protect Rural Communities

January 23, 2026

Beamsville – As part of its plan to protect Ontario, the province is launching the second intake of the Rural Ontario Development Program, a $20 million investment to strengthen the economies of rural communities, build infrastructure and keep workers on the job. The announcement was made this week at the 2026 Rural Ontario Municipal Association Annual Conference in Toronto, with applications opening immediately for rural municipalities, businesses, Indigenous groups and not-for-profit organizations.

“The Rural Ontario Development Program is a key part of our government’s commitment to help develop and grow local businesses, attract and retain workers and build safe, strong and vibrant communities in rural regions of the province, including Niagara,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.

“When rural Ontario thrives, the entire province prospers.”

“In the midst of global economic uncertainty, our government is doubling down on our plan to protect Ontario and its rural communities,” said Hon. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario.

“We are making record investments in rural services and infrastructure, and we are cutting red tape and keeping costs down to help attract investments and create jobs in rural communities.”

“Since it was introduced a year ago, Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy is protecting rural communities and helping them to thrive in these uncertain economic times,” said Hon. Lisa Thomson, Minister of Rural Affairs.

“This strategy – which includes the Rural Ontario Development Program – supports our whole-of-government approach to ensure rural Ontario continues to be the best place to live, work and raise a family.”

“Our government is working to protect the people and families who call rural Ontario home,” said Hon. Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“From making investments in infrastructure, to supporting Ontario’s farmers, to creating the conditions to get more homes built, we are doing what is needed to keep workers on the job and safeguard the bright future that is in store for our rural communities.”

The Rural Ontario Development Program supports the objectives of the Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy.