Funding will help attract investment, strengthen workforce capacity and build long-term growth
For Immediate Release
June 18th, 2026
OWEN SOUND — As part of its plan to protect rural Ontario, the government is investing $288,101 to support economic growth and long-term prosperity in Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound. The funding is through the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program, a $20 million investment by the province to strengthen local economies, support rural workers and assist communities in planning for long-term growth.
“This investment will support vital growth within our riding and is a great sign of support for our rural communities. I am looking forward to seeing the many benefits these programs and organizations will bring as a result of this funding.” said Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers.
Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is supporting the following projects in Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound.
| Project | Organization | Funding |
| Building Business, Growing Community: Meaford BR+E Project | Municipality of Meaford | $33,500 |
| Golden Dawn Redevelopment – Phase 1 Planning | Golden Dawn Senior Citizen Home | $50,000 |
| Township of Chatsworth – Community Hub Beautification | The Corporation of the Township of Chatsworth | $6,737.50 |
| Bolstering Rural Ontario Through Refugee Workforce Development | Elephant Thoughts Educational Outreach | $150,000 |
| River District Streetscape Renewal Plan | The Corporation of the City of Owen Sound | $37,250 |
| Implementing the business and marketing plan for The Conscious Market | The Conscious Farm Kitchen | $5,871.50 |
| Website Modernization for Business Growth and Client Access | Valley Home Improvements | $4,742.46 |
“The Rural Ontario Development program demonstrates our government’s commitment to supporting small, rural and northern communities across Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs. “Through investments that support local priorities and economic development opportunities, we are helping rural communities build strong foundations for long-term success.”
Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is investing over $5.5 million in 116 projects across rural Ontario.
QUICK FACTS
- The Rural Ontario Development program supports local projects from municipalities, small businesses, not-for-profits and Indigenous groups.
- Since 2019, Ontario has invested $34.3 million in 653 projects through the ROD program and the former Rural Economic Development Fund.
- The third intake for the ROD program opens on August 17, 2026.
- Learn more about the government’s plan to build safe, strong and prosperous rural communities in Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Rural Ontario Development Program | ontario.ca
- Ontario Investing in the Success of Rural Communities | Ontario Newsroom
For additional information, please contact:
MPP Paul Vickers Office | 519-371-2421 | paul.vickers@pc.ola.org