LEAMINGTON: The Ontario government is committing nearly $1 million in cost-share funding to help rural communities diversify their economies, retain skilled workers, and create jobs.
Details about the funding were released by Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, which is being provided through a new targeted intake of the Rural Economic Development program (RED).
“This funding will focus on diversifying regional economies and improving the competitiveness of rural businesses across the province,” said Minister Hardeman.
The intake is directed at not-for-profit organizations with a mandate towards regional economic development and eligible projects would be eligible for up to 70 percent of total costs to a maximum of $75,000 in provincial funding.
Minister Hardeman also announced more than $3 million in funding cost-shared with applicants to be invested in 65 projects through a previous RED intake.
This funding will support development efforts such as:
• Capital improvements to enhance an uptown art and cultural hub to increase tourism;
• Implementing new and accessible streetscaping to develop a more inviting downtown;
• Waterfront development.x