New $50 Million Ontario Together Trade Fund Opens April 23

Ontario businesses impacted by U.S. trade disruptions have a new opportunity to strengthen their operations and expand their market reach.  

The Ontario government has introduced the brand-new Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF), a $50 million government funding program aimed at helping businesses make near-term investments to serve more interprovincial customers, develop new markets, and re-shore critical supply chains.  

Funding applications for the OTTF program open on April 23, 2025, and will be accepted on a continuous basis. 

Funding Snapshot: Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) 

Funding: 

• Amount: Up to $5 million in grant or loan funding 
• Coverage: Up to 75% of eligible project costs for projects demonstrating exceptional benefit 

Eligible Expenses: 

• Facility upgrades, equipment, and machinery 
• One-time labour and specialized expertise 
• Materials, training, and market access 
• New certifications, labeling, and product adaptation for new markets 

Applicant Eligibility: 

• For-profit businesses (legal entity or limited partnership) operating in Ontario 
• Minimum of three years of operations with financial statements 
• Minimum of five full-time equivalent (FTE) employees 
• Must be significantly impacted by U.S. trade disruptions, such as: 
• Operating in a tariff-targeted sector (e.g., steel, auto, aluminum) 
• Facing revenue loss of 30% or more 
• Pivoting operations to supply a customer affected by tariffs 

Applicants with fewer than five employees may be considered if their project offers considerable benefits to Ontario’s economy. 

Project Eligibility: 

• Minimum project spend of $200,000 
• Located in Ontario and completed within two years 
• Project must help diversify revenue streams and address U.S. trade impacts by: 
• Enhancing domestic competitiveness 
• Reshoring supply chains or replacing U.S.-based suppliers 
• Pivoting to less trade-exposed goods 
• Creating or securing jobs in Ontario 

Ineligible Projects Include: 

• Routine operations, maintenance, or capital replacement 
• Refinancing, acquisitions, or business restructuring 
• Hospitality, waste management, and electricity projects 
• Sole proprietors, nonprofits, retail, and most personal services firms 

Application Timeline: 

• The application intake period opens on April 23, 2025. 
• This is a continuous intake, meaning businesses can submit their applications at any time while the program remains open. 

Strengthening Ontario’s Trade and Diversification 

The OTTF is part of Ontario’s broader strategy to enhance trade security and diversification. By supporting businesses in making strategic investments, the fund aims to reduce reliance on U.S. markets and strengthen domestic supply chains.  

This government funding programs aligns with the government’s efforts to unlock free trade within Canada, as outlined in the recently introduced Protect Ontario Through Free Trade Within Canada Act. The legislation seeks to eliminate interprovincial trade barriers, create new job opportunities, and offer new supports to businesses looking to expand into national markets. 

“For too long, we’ve let red tape and endless regulations hold back our economy, making us vulnerable to external threats, including from President Trump’s tariffs. Not anymore. The legislation we’re introducing today will make Ontario a national leader when it comes to trade between provinces and territories, so we can strengthen and unify Canada and create new markets and opportunities for Ontario workers and goods.” 
– Doug Ford, Ontario Premier 

Enhancing Ontario Competitiveness and Job Creation 

The OTTF is designed to help businesses increase manufacturing capacity and capabilities, invest in advanced technology and innovative processes, and contribute to regional and sectoral ecosystems. By supporting projects that create or retain jobs, the fund aims to bolster Ontario’s economy and ensure long-term resilience. 

“Ontario is leading the way when it comes to free trade within Canada, and we’re pleased to work with our partners across the country to get it done.” 
– Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade 

The OTTF represents a significant opportunity for businesses to enhance their competitiveness, diversify their markets, and contribute to the province’s economic growth.  

With applications opening on April 23, 2025, businesses are encouraged to connect with our team of government funding experts to assess their eligibility and consider how this funding can support their strategic objectives.