$1.5 Million SWODF Agribusiness Win Supports 150 New Jobs

When a global food processor chooses Ontario for its first North American facility, it’s not only a smart business move, but also a testament that showcases the province’s thriving agribusiness landscape. 

Hilton Foods Canada is making a significant mark in Brantford with a $192 million investment to establish its first North American food processing and distribution facility. The brand-new 230,000-square-foot plant will handle various protein products, including beef, pork, lamb, and seafood, and distribute them to centers in Mississauga, Cornwall, and Moncton. 

This venture is set to create 150 new jobs, reinforcing Brantford’s position as a key player in Ontario’s agri-food sector. The Ontario government is supporting this expansion with a $1.5 million investment from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF), aiming to diversify and strengthen the province’s food manufacturing industry. 

“Today is an exciting milestone and the official start of construction on our very first Hilton Foods facility in Canada. This is the beginning of a long-term commitment to Ontario’s food supply chain, to the people of this region, and to the future of high-quality Canadian food products, right here in Brantford, Ontario. We’re proud to be bringing innovation, quality, and efficiency to the food supply chain, and most importantly, provide Canadian families with products they can trust and enjoy every day.” 
– Matt Lee, Regional CEO of Hilton Foods 

 

Understanding SWODF: Fueling Regional Growth 

The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF) is designed to support projects that drive economic development in the region. It offers financial assistance to businesses, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations aiming to grow their operations, improve productivity, and create sustainable jobs. 

Funding Snapshot: Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF) 

• Objective: Support economic development through business growth, job creation, and innovation. 
• Funding Amount: Up to 15% of eligible project costs for businesses; up to 50% for community economic development projects 
• Eligible Applicants: Businesses with at least three years of operations, employing a minimum of 10 people (or 5 in rural areas), and planning to create at least 5 new jobs 
• Eligible Projects: Facility expansions, equipment purchases, innovation initiatives, and workforce development 
• Timeline: Applications currently open, with intake periods announced periodically 

Canadian Agribusiness Government Grants and Loans 

For agribusinesses looking to expand or innovate, SWODF offers a valuable opportunity to offset costs and accelerate growth. The funding program’s focus on job creation and economic impact aligns well with the objectives of many businesses in the sector. 

By tapping into SWODF, businesses can gain the funding support needed to undertake significant projects that might otherwise be out of reach. This not only benefits the individual business but also contributes to the vitality of the local Southwestern Ontario economy. 

If you’re considering expanding your agribusiness operations in Ontario, now is the time to explore the opportunities SWODF offers. Contact the Ryan Canada government funding team today to learn how we can assist you in navigating the government funding application process and securing the support your project needs.