WEsearch Employment & Training
First, tell us about the kind of help you’re looking for. Click on the item below that best describes your current situation. Continue to make selections until you find the information you need. To go back to any previous point, click the X button next to the section you wish to close.
Ok, you’re a business in Windsor-Essex who wants help navigating the various programs and services available to employers.
What kind of help are you looking for?
Ok, so you’re an entrepreneur who is either at the idea, start-up, or grow phase, and you’re looking for help. This section will focus on supports specific to entrepreneurs like you.
What kind of help do you want?
Ok, you’re an entrepreneur looking for business startup or growth funding.
Remember to also check out the other sections of this online tool for more specific grants and loans that target specific business growth activities like hiring, exporting, etc.
Select from the choices below to see what organizations and programs are best suited to help you and your business.
Your advanced manufacturing or social innovation business could access support services and up to $30,000 in seed funding for growth projects.
To be eligible, your business must:
- Be incorporated and headquartered in Southern Ontario
- Match the financial contribution
- Be a start-up that has generated revenues or secured investments, or has fewer than 50 employees
- Have a high growth opportunity with the potential to address Canadian or global markets
Eligible activities include:
- Innovating new products or services
- Optimizing your processes
- Making capital purchases
- Reducing costs through energy, water or waste innovations
For more information, including eligibility and how to apply, visit Innovation Guelph’s website at www.innovationguelph.ca.
On behalf of the Government of Ontario, OCE supports early-stage companies that are raising pre-seed and seed investments (total round sizes range from $500,000 to $2 million). Market Readiness is a competitive co-investment fund. With more than 300 companies considered for funding each year, OCE completes 30-40 investments a year.
Eligibility
- Companies that have raised less than $1 million in third-party capital (excludes friends and family) are eligible for their first MR investment.
- Incorporated for no more than five years (Ontario or Canadian for-profit incorporation) and have principal operations in Ontario
- Currently or previously affiliated with a campus linked accelerator, incubator, or on-campus entrepreneurship activities in Ontario, or currently or previously affiliated with a Regional Innovation Centre and have previously received funding from other OCE programs (excluding the TalentEdge Program).
- Companies with their team/IP origin at a university (“university spin-out”), college or research hospital are also eligible, even if not Campus-Linked Accelerator-affiliated.
Learn more about Market Readiness Fund at https://marketreadiness.oce-ontario.org/.
Contact:
Jeff Van Heumen
Business Development Manager and Automotive Sector Lead
(226) 235-0444
Jeff.vanHeumen@oce-ontario.org
Futurpreneur Canada is a national non-profit organization providing pre-launch coaching expertise, online business resources, financing, and industry-leading mentoring to help you start your own successful business.
Futurpreneur Canada supports businesses of all kinds – skilled trades, technology, retail, services, and everything in between by providing support from the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey right through to all of your milestones. The program supports young entrepreneurs by providing a loan of $20,000 to start business for individuals age 18 to 39. Those who qualify can also apply for an additional $40,000 through the Futurepreneur-BDC Start-Up Financing Program. Find out more about Futurpreneur financing programs and your eligibility. http://www.futurpreneur.ca/en/resources/
Futurpreneur also supports young entrepreneurs by connecting them with an expert business mentor for up to two years, and resources to help you plan, manage, and grow your business. Mentors provide business advice, as well as support and encouragement, to help young entrepreneurs remain focused on what is important for the success of their business. Find out more about being hand-matched with a Futurpreneur Canada mentor or about volunteering as a Futurpreneur Canada mentor. http://www.futurpreneur.ca/en/mentoring/
Contact:
Sabrina DeMarco, Small Business Centre
(519) 253-6900 | sdemarco@windsoressexsmallbusiness.com
The small business lending program includes financing, mentorship, and support to launch or grow your business for individuals who self-identify themselves as having a mental health and/or addiction challenge.
Rise offers low-interest business loans based on your stage of business development, viability of the business concept, and capacity to re-pay. Eligible entrepreneurs can access loans up to $10,000 throughout Ontario, with an average initial loan size in the $3,000 to $4,000 range.
- We offer a low interest rate and average loan term is 3 years.
- Repayment starts 30 days post-loan disbursement.
- Our loans do not require security or a guarantee and there are absolutely no hidden fees at all.
- For more information, including eligibility and how to apply, visit Rise Asset Development’s website at www.risehelps.ca or contact their office in London.
Contact:
(519) 659 2882 ext. 225
519 659 2882 ext. 223
The SmartStart Seed Fund supports seed financing and funding for entrepreneurship skills training to help grow start-up companies and make them investment- and customer-ready.
SmartStart is co-funded by the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), and the Government of Ontario, as part of its Ontario Youth Jobs Strategy.
Funding is up to $30,000, including up to $7,500 for entrepreneurship skills training and professional advisory services within the seed funding amount.
Eligibility
Start-Up Company:
- For-profit, incorporated for up to four years
- Based in an eligible Southern Ontario Census Division
- Has less than $250,000 in revenue and/or investment combined
- Endorsed by a Regional Innovation Centre (RIC), OCE-supported Campus-Linked Accelerator (CLA) or OCE-supported On-Campus Entrepreneurship Activities (OCEA) program recipient.
- Actively engaged (for a minimum of four months within the past 12 months) and/or recently accepted into a program involving a selection process (such as an accelerator, a bootcamp/pitch competition winner, recipient of an embedded executive, etc.) with the endorsing RIC, CLA or OCEA
Applicant
Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old
Holds equity and key position in the company
Contact:
Jeff Van Heumen
Business Development Manager and Automotive Sector Lead
(226) 235-0444
Jeff.vanHeumen@oce-ontario.org
Ok, you’re a social enterprise business looking for grants or loans to help your business grow.
Select from the choices below to see what organization or program can best help you.
Your advanced manufacturing or social innovation business could access support services and up to $30,000 in seed funding for growth projects.
To be eligible, your business must:
- Be incorporated and headquartered in Southern Ontario
- Match the financial contribution
- Be a start-up that has generated revenues or secured investments, or has fewer than 50 employees
- Have a high growth opportunity with the potential to address Canadian or global markets
Eligible activities include:
- Innovating new products or services
- Optimizing your processes
- Making capital purchases
- Reducing costs through energy, water or waste innovations
For more information, including eligibility and how to apply, visit Innovation Guelph’s website at www.innovationguelph.ca.
The Ontario Catapult Microloan Fund enables social entrepreneurs and innovators to grow their world-changing enterprises with access to capital and CSI’s existing programming and services.
- Offers loans to social enterprises with existing revenues that require growth capital.
- Provides loans (5% – 8%) of $5,000 – $25,000 to revenue-generating social enterprises.
- Up to a 5 year term.
- For members of CSI (you can still apply if you are not a member but you will need to become a member once you are approved), offering a range of supports.
- Undertakes a full impact assessment of the investments over a two-year period.
For more information, including eligibility and how to apply, visit the Centre for Social Innovation’s website at socialinnovation.org.
The RBC Generator aims to generate market, or near-market, returns by investing in Canadian for-profit businesses and third-party funds tackling social or environmental challenges. Investment opportunities are evaluated based on their potential to deliver long-term financial return, as well as benefits in at least one of our four strategic areas.
- Energy
- Water
- Employment
- Education
The RBC Generator makes debt and equity investments from $100,000 to $1 million through a flexible range of structures. They will also consider follow-up investments for organizations with proven scalability that require additional financing.
For more information, including program details and how to apply, visit rbc.com.
The SVX is a local, impact first platform connecting impact ventures, funds, and investors in order to catalyze new debt and equity investment capital for local ventures that have demonstrable social and/or environmental impact, including nonprofits, co-operatives, and for-profit corporations.
SVX helps social enterprise businesses find and connect with an investor to generate the capital they need to succeed.
For more information visit SVX’s website at www.svx.ca
Young people are brimming with innovative ideas to tackle the complex challenges that confront today’s society. Yet without an established credit history, assets, and business experience required by traditional investment models, young social entrepreneurs face challenges securing the necessary funding to accomplish their goals.
Investors are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with their current investment portfolio and opportunities. They want their investments to earn financial returns while simultaneously positively impacting the world.
We bridge the gap between the needs of young social entrepreneurs and impact investors by:
- Providing young social entrepreneurs with financing and resources that facilitate successful venture growth,
- Offering investment opportunities that generate financial returns and positive impact.
We finance investments using an instrument called the Revenue Reach, an alternative to traditional debt and equity that better aligns the interests of investors and entrepreneurs.
For more information, including how to apply, visit the Youth Social Innovation Capital Fund website at youthsocialinnovation.org.
The Ontario Cooperation Council is an Ontario nonprofit social enterprise founded in 1964. We are working to ensure the promotion, sustainable development and innovation of cooperatives and social enterprises (which we call all collective enterprises) Ontario, we are leading players in community economic development, we are doing research and social innovation, and we are experts in organizational management.
Our priorities for action and services provided:
Development of cooperatives and social enterprises
- Marketing studies
- Feasibility studies
- Business plan
- Development of regulations and internal policies
- strategic plans, work plans and indicators to measure the perfomance
- Human Resource Management
- budgets
- advances in entrepreneurship and management training
- Development of management and control tools
- Organization of foundation meetings and general meetings
Community Economic Development
- Strategic planning
- Chairing meetings, forums, workshops, etc.
- Management of organizations
- Third-party for the delivery of programs and services
- Requests for funds
- Assessment of organizational vitality
- Evaluation of the social impact related SDGs
Search and social innovation
- Program Evaluation
- Contractual delivery of programs, projects in French and English services for organizations
- Business Incubators
- Social Impact Measurement
- social Finance
- collective business management online training modules
- Support in business succession
- Organizational management
International affairs
For more information about The Ontario Cooperation Council or to book an appointment, contact our Windsor’s office or visit our website : www.cco.coop
Contact
Clément Panzavolta
Senior Development Officer
(519) 256-9722
Clement.panzavolta@cco.coop
Location
1010 Avenue University West, Suite 101
Windsor, ON N9A 5S4
Starter Company Plus is an Ontario government program that provides entrepreneurs with the resources and knowledge they need to start and grow their own business.
As a Starter Company Plus entrepreneur, you get:
- One-on-one guidance from the WindsorEssex Small Business Centre
- Business workshops on topics including business plan development and cash flow strategies, developing and executing a marketing plan and growing your business with confidence
- Grant of up to $5,000
- 3 months of mentoring with the Small Business Centre
- Networking opportunities
- Access to our drop-in coworking space
For more information about the Starter Company program, visit the Small Business Centre’s website at www.windsoressexsmallbusiness.com/startercompany or contact their office.
Contact:
Sabrina DeMarco at
519-253-6900 or sdemarco@windsoressexsmallbusiness.com
Small Business Centre
Summer Company is an Ontario government program that provides young people aged 15-29 with the resources and knowledge they need to start and run a new summer business.
As a Summer Company entrepreneur, you get:
- Startup money to kick-off a new summer business
- Hands-on business training, advice, and mentorship from local business leaders
- An award of up to $3,000
For more information about the Summer Company program, visit the Small Business Centre’s website at www.windsoressexsmallbusiness.com or contact their office.
Contact:
Myrtle Donnipad
Youth and Entrepreneurship Advisor
Windsor-Essex Small Business Centre
(519) 253-6900 ext. 2234
mdonnipad@windsoressexsmallbusiness.com
Ok, you’re an entrepreneur looking for some kind of legal assistance.
Select from the choices below to see what organization is best suited to help you.
Ok, you’re an entrepreneur who would like to take advantage of business mentoring programs.
Select from the choices below to see what organization is best suited to help you and your business grow.
The Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre (Genesis) provides St. Clair college students with the knowledge and tools to help them take a new product or service to the market.
For more information contact
Susan Taylor, Supervisor
2000 Talbot Road West (519) 972-2727 ext. 4360 staylor01@stclaircollege.ca Website View Full Company Profile
Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre
Ok, so you’re an entrepreneur looking for physical space for your business.
What kind of space are you looking for?
Ok, you’re an entrepreneur looking for office space.
Select from the choices below to see what organization can best help you.
The Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre (Genesis) provides St. Clair college students with the knowledge and tools to help them take a new product or service to the market.
For more information contact
Susan Taylor, Supervisor
2000 Talbot Road West (519) 972-2727 ext. 4360 staylor01@stclaircollege.ca Website View Full Company Profile
Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre
Ok, you’re an entrepreneur looking for production space.
Select from the choices below to see what organization can best help you.
Ok, you’re an entrepreneur who is starting or growing your business while you’re attending post-secondary education.
Are you attending St. Clair College or the University of Windsor?
The Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre (Genesis) provides St. Clair college students with the knowledge and tools to help them take a new product or service to the market.
For more information contact
Susan Taylor, Supervisor
2000 Talbot Road West (519) 972-2727 ext. 4360 staylor01@stclaircollege.ca Website View Full Company Profile
Genesis Entrepreneurship Centre
The province has also launched a new program called Small Business Access, which will provide resources online and over the phone to make it easier for small businesses to interact with the government and get the supports they need. The government is partnering with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and working with small businesses to promote awareness of this new dedicated service.
Online support can be accessed by visiting: www.ontario.ca/page/small-business-access
For support by phone, call 1-866-668-4249.
TTY/Teletypewriter (for the hearing impaired):
Toll-free: 1-800-268-7095
Ok, so you’re a business looking for help researching, developing, or commercializing a new product or process.
What kind of help do you want?
Ok, you’re a business who wants information on tax credits relating to research, development, or commercialization activities.
Select from the options below to learn more about what tax credits are available to help your business.
The Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Program is a federal tax incentive program designed to encourage Canadian businesses of all sizes and in all sectors to conduct research and development (R&D) in Canada.
Highlights
Generally, a Canadian-controlled private corporation (CCPC) can earn a refundable input tax credit (ITC) at the enhanced rate of 35% on qualified SR&ED expenditures, up to a maximum threshold of $3 million. This 35% ITC is 100% refundable on qualified SR&ED expenditures and 40% refundable on qualified SR&ED capital expenditures incurred before 2014.
A CCPC can also earn a non-refundable ITC at the basic rate of 15% on an amount over the $3 million threshold.
A CCPC that meets the definition of a qualifying corporation can earn a refundable ITC at the basic rate of 15% on an amount over the $3 million threshold, of which 40% can be refunded.
For more information about the SR&ED Program, including what you need to know to claim it, visit the Canada Revenue Agency’s website.
Contact:
Jody Wipp
(519) 973-5604
jody.wipp@cra.gc.ca
General Inquiry Line: (905) 566-6010
The Ontario Innovation Tax Credit allows qualifying corporations to claim a refundable tax credit for qualified expenditures on scientific research and experimental development performed in Ontario.
- For taxation years that commence after May 31, 2016, the tax credit rate is 8%.
- The tax credit rate is prorated for taxation years straddling June 1, 2016.
- For taxation years that end before June 1, 2016, the tax credit rate is 10%.
Program Highlights
Based on an expenditure limit of $3 million:
- For taxation years that commence after May 31, 2016, the maximum tax credit amount is $240,000
- The maximum tax credit amount is prorated for taxation years straddling June 1, 2016, and
- For taxation years that end before June 1, 2016, the maximum tax credit amount is $300,000.
The expenditure limit is gradually reduced if:
- Federal taxable income of the prior tax year exceeds $500,000 and is totally eliminated at $800,000, or
- The prior year’s taxable capital exceeds $25 million and is totally eliminated at $50 million.
Associated corporations must share the expenditure limit. The limit is also reduced for a short tax year based on the number of days in the tax year, in proportion to 365.
For more information, including how to claim the tax credit, visit the Ontario Ministry of Finance’s website at www.fin.gov.on.ca.
The Ontario Business Research Institute Tax Credit allows eligible corporations to claim a 20% refundable tax credit for qualified expenditures on scientific research and experimental development work performed in Ontario under contract with eligible research institutes.
Small businesses may claim this tax credit and the Ontario innovation tax credit on qualified expenditures.
Qualified expenditures are capped at $20 million annually. The maximum annual tax credit is $4 million.
For more information, including eligibility and what you need to know to claim the tax credit, visit the Ontario Ministry of Finance website at www.fin.gov.on.ca.
The Ontario Research and Development Tax Credit allows qualifying corporations to claim a non-refundable tax credit on eligible scientific research and experimental development expenditures performed in Ontario to reduce their Ontario corporate income tax payable.
- For taxation years that commence after May 31, 2016, the tax credit rate is 3.5%.
- The tax credit rate is prorated for taxation years straddling June 1, 2016.
- For taxation years that end before June 1, 2016, the tax credit rate is 4.5%.
For more information, including eligibility and what you need to know to claim the tax credit, visit the Ontario Ministry of Finance website at www.fin.gov.on.ca.
If you are a newly established corporation in certain sectors, you could be eligible for a refund of the corporate income tax and corporate minimum tax your business paid in its first 10 taxation years.
Eligibility
You need to operate in:
- Advanced health
- Bioeconomy (including clean energy technologies)
- Telecommunications, computer or digital technologies production
You also:
- Must be incorporated between March 25, 2008 and March 24, 2012
- Cannot be formed by way of an amalgamation or merger
- Must be commercializing intellectual property developed at a Canadian university or college
For more information about the exemption program and how to apply, visit the Ontario Ministry of Finance website at www.ontario.ca.
Ok, you’re a business who wants more information about grants and loans that support research, development, and/or commercialization activities.
Select from the options below to learn more about what programs are available to help your business.
Ok, you’re a business who wants to know what grant or loan programs might exist to conduct business research with a Canadian College or University.
Select from the options below to learn more about what research organizations and programs are available to help your business.
The Engage Grant supports short term R&D projects to solve a problem specific to the company. Project funding, up to a maximum of $25,000, is paid to the researchers for the six-month duration of the project. The partnering company must be involved in the project and provide in kind support. Any IP developed during the project belongs to the company.
Academic applicant required, funding given to academic institution (e.g. St. Clair College)
For more information, visit: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Professors-Professeurs/RPP-PP/CCIEngage-ICCEngagement_eng.asp.
Contact:
Peter Wawrow
(519) 972-2727 ext. 5311
pwawrow@stclaircollege.ca
Alliance grants encourage university researchers to collaborate with partner organizations, which can be from the private, public or not-for-profit sectors. These grants support research projects led by strong, complementary, collaborative teams that will generate new knowledge and accelerate the application of research results to create benefits for Canada.
Alliance Grants range from $20,000-$1 million from 1-5 years in duration. Support ranges from 50% to 90% (based on size of business).
For more information, visit: http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Innovate-Innover/alliance-alliance/index_eng.asp.
Contact:
Heather Pratt
University of Windsor
(519) 253-3000 ext. 3917
hpratt@uwindsor.ca
Nserc-ontario@nserc-crsng.gc.ca
1-877-767-1767
If you’re a graduate student looking for research opportunities or an employer interested in hiring a researcher, you’ve come to the right place.
Take your company to the next level with Mitacs.
The research needed to grow your business requires talent, time and budget. But finding the ideal combination of these three elements can be a challenge. Mitacs helps you to bridge those gaps. We connect companies with university researchers for innovative projects, ensuring you achieve measurable ROI on your research and development. We spend time understanding your business needs, find the right talent to work on the solution and provide financial support, up to 55% of the project cost. For more information, visit www.mitacs.ca.
Accelerate
Solve your research challenges with academic expertise, leveraged funding, and one-to-one support from Mitacs. Internships start at four months and can scale up as much as you need — your financial contribution starts at $7,500.
For more information, visit: https://www.mitacs.ca/en/programs/accelerate#business.
Accelerate International
Mitacs Accelerate International supports bilateral research collaborations between interns, universities, and industry partners, both in Canada and abroad. Interns at Canadian universities can undertake projects in Mitacs’s partner countries. Interns from Mitacs’s partner countries can undertake projects in Canada.
For more information, visit: https://www.mitacs.ca/en/programs/accelerate/mitacs-accelerate-international.
Contact:
Katie Facecchia
Business Development
(519) 560-1582
kfacecchia@mitacs.ca
If you’re an undergraduate or graduate student looking for research opportunities or an employer interested in hiring a researcher, then you’ve come to the right place.
The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) aims to make Canada a country of discoverers and innovators for the benefit of all Canadians. The agency supports university students in their advanced studies, promotes and supports discovery research, and fosters innovation by encouraging Canadian companies to participate and invest in post-secondary research projects. NSERC researchers are on the vanguard of science, building on Canada’s long tradition of scientific excellence.
For more information about the programs offered by NSERC, visit their website by clicking one of the categories below.
- I’m a business interested in hiring a research intern
- I’m an undergraduate researcher looking for opportunities
- I’m a post-graduate researcher looking for opportunities
General Contact:
Nserc-ontario@nserc-crsng.gc.ca
1 877-767- 1767
University of Windsor Contact:
Heather Pratt
(519) 253-3000 ext 3917
hpratt@uwindsor.ca
The Space Technology Development Program (STDP) of the Canadian Space Agency has the mandate to support the development, sustainment, and enhancement of industrial technological capabilities in the space domain that are of strategic importance to Canada. The STDP is a non-repayable contribution to support the development of industrial capabilities. It is intended to support the industry’s responsiveness to future market demand and the maintenance of its global competitiveness.
Eligible recipients are limited to for-profit organizations established and operating in Canada, although universities and not-for-profit organizations can be included in the work as subcontractors but are not eligible as recipients of the contribution agreements.
For more information, visit the Canadian Space Agency’s website or contact their office.
Contact
info@asc-csa.gc.ca
1-405-926-4800
SDTC’s mandate is to fund projects that support Canadian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) advancing innovative technologies that are pre-commercial and have the potential to demonstrate significant and quantifiable environmental and economic benefits in one or more of the following areas: climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil.
We do this by providing non-repayable contributions to successful applicants. To be eligible for funding, applicants must:
- Be a Canadian company developing a new and novel technology with significant and quantifiable environmental benefits that will provide a significant retained Canadian benefit following execution of the project.
- Have a defined project and be looking to demonstrate a pre-commercial technology.
- Have a strong end-user, value proposition and be able to validate the market and commercialization potential of the technology.
- Form a consortium that includes at least one other partner (recommended that applicants seek partners who are either end users or able to validate the need and market for the technology).
For more information, visit Sustainable Development Technology Canada’s website at www.sdtc.ca.
The Strategic Innovation Fund allocates repayable and non-repayable contributions to firms of all sizes across all of Canada’s industrial and technology sectors. The program has a budget of $1.26 billion over five years. It consolidates and simplifies the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative, Technology Demonstration Program, Automotive Innovation Fund and Automotive Supplier Innovation Program.
The Strategic Innovation Fund’s objective is to spur innovation for a better Canada. Specifically, it serves to simplify application processes, accelerate processing, and provide assistance that is more responsive and focused on results.
The program has five Streams, each with its own precise objective:
- Stream 1: Encourage R&D that will accelerate technology transfer and commercialization of innovative products, processes and services;
- Stream 2: Facilitate the growth and expansion of firms in Canada;
- Stream 3: Attract and retain large scale investments to Canada; and
- Stream 4: Advance industrial research, development and technology demonstration through collaboration between academia, non-profit organizations and the private sector.
- Stream 5: Supporting national ecosystems.
For more information, visit the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s website or contact their office.
Contact:
1-800-328-6189
or
Liana Daltoe
Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
(519) 562-8492
liana.daltoe@canada.ca
Ok, you’re a business who wants to know what grant or loan programs might exist to support innovative research. These programs do not require collaboration with a research institute.
Select from the options below to learn more about what research opportunities are available to help your business.
The Space Technology Development Program (STDP) of the Canadian Space Agency has the mandate to support the development, sustainment, and enhancement of industrial technological capabilities in the space domain that are of strategic importance to Canada. The STDP is a non-repayable contribution to support the development of industrial capabilities. It is intended to support the industry’s responsiveness to future market demand and the maintenance of its global competitiveness.
Eligible recipients are limited to for-profit organizations established and operating in Canada, although universities and not-for-profit organizations can be included in the work as subcontractors but are not eligible as recipients of the contribution agreements.
For more information, contact their office or visit the Canadian Space Agency’s website at https://asc-csa.gc.ca/.
Contact
info@asc-csa.gc.ca
1-405-926-4800
The Strategic Innovation Fund allocates repayable and non-repayable contributions to firms of all sizes across all of Canada’s industrial and technology sectors. The program has a budget of $1.26 billion over five years. It consolidates and simplifies the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative, Technology Demonstration Program, Automotive Innovation Fund and Automotive Supplier Innovation Program.
The Strategic Innovation Fund’s objective is to spur innovation for a better Canada. Specifically, it serves to simplify application processes, accelerate processing, and provide assistance that is more responsive and focused on results.
The program has five Streams, each with its own precise objective:
- Stream 1: Encourage R&D that will accelerate technology transfer and commercialization of innovative products, processes and services;
- Stream 2: Facilitate the growth and expansion of firms in Canada;
- Stream 3: Attract and retain large scale investments to Canada; and
- Stream 4: Advance industrial research, development and technology demonstration through collaboration between academia, non-profit organizations and the private sector.
- Stream 5: Supporting national ecosystems.
For more information, visit the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s website or contact their office.
Contact:
1-800-328-6189
or
Liana Daltoe
Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
(519) 562-8492
liana.daltoe@canada.ca
Ok, you’re a business who wants help to commercialize your product, which may include product testing, pre-commercialization, and adoptions programs.
Select from the options below to learn more about what programs are available to help your business.
Funding under this stream helps to create, grow and develop strong and inclusive regional networks that support business growth and innovation, as well as the entrepreneurial environment necessary for more innovative regional economies.
Applications can be submitted for non-repayable contributions from $500,000 up to $10 million per project.
Funding is available to:
- Grow and sustain strategic clusters and consortia that support businesses to scale up and commercialize innovative products, technologies and services.
- Enhance the development and reach of business incubators, accelerators, and other organizations, which support entrepreneurs, start-ups and innovative companies with high-growth potential.
- Support projects led by innovation-oriented organizations to increase and promote business productivity and global competitiveness, and investment and talent attraction.
- Leverage local advantages, institutions and infrastructure in rural areas.
For more information, visit: https://www.feddevontario.gc.ca/eic/site/723.nsf/eng/02474.html?OpenDocument
Contact:
Jeff King
(226) 339-2823
jeff.king@canada.ca
1-866-593-5505
Funding under this stream aims to generate sustainable, inclusive growth and help small and rural communities in southern Ontario to fully participate in, and benefit from economic opportunities.
Applications can be submitted for non-repayable contributions from $250,000 up to $5 million per project for not-for-profit organizations. No interest, repayable contributions from $250,000 up to $5 million per project for incorporated businesses, including Indigenous businesses.
Funding is available to:
- Enhance business attraction, investment, retention and employment opportunities in southern Ontario communities.
- Develop and expand collaborative efforts that strengthen regional competitiveness.
- Support regional businesses, hubs and communities with the goal of economic diversification, integration and transformation.
For more information, visit: https://www.feddevontario.gc.ca/eic/site/723.nsf/eng/02475.html?OpenDocument.
Contact:
Jeff King
(226) 339-2823
jeff.king@canada.ca
1-866-593-5505
CAP is a new five-year commitment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments that will support Canada’s agri-food and agri-products sectors. Strategic initiatives including cost-share funding will support projects in the following key priority areas, with research and innovation continuing to be a focus across all programming:
1. Economic development
2. Environmental stewardship to enhance water quality and soil health and
3. Protection and assurance to reinforce the foundation for public trust in the sector through improved assurance systems in food safety and plant and animal health.
Producers, Processors, and Other Businesses can apply for cost-share funding. Check website for intake dates. All businesses must complete the program enrollment form before applying for cost-share funding. Program guides are available at: www.ontarioprogramguides.net. Business can submit applications online at: www.ontarioprograms.net.
OMAFRA Contact:
Kevin Montgomery
Kevin.montgomery@ontario.ca
(519) 676-3325
Jeff Kinsella
jeff.kinsella@ontario.ca
(519) 674-1335
Information for innovators
The ISC program will maintain the core elements of the former Build in Canada Program (BCIP) by buying late-stage pre-commercial products/services from Canadian innovators, testing them in real-life settings, and providing the innovators with valuable feedback.
For more information about the program, including priority areas and how to access the program, contact their office or visit the Government of Canada’s website at https://www.ic.gc.ca.
Subscribe to receive email updates for the latest information about the Testing Stream, including news regarding consolidation of the program and new Call for Proposals.
DAIR (Digital Accelerator for Innovation and Research) leverages Canada’s investment in the CANARIE national backbone research and education network to accelerate product development and market competitiveness of small and medium-sized Canadian companies (less than 500 employees). DAIR provides Canadian tech entrepreneurs access to free cloud-based (virtual) compute and storage resources.
CANARIE’s DAIR Program lets you:
- Rev up product development and get to market faster
- Reduce your product development costs
- Show your prototype quickly to potential customers and investors
- Have the freedom and flexibility to experiment in your design and development to discover the optimal way to build your product
For more information about DAIR, including how to apply online, visit CANARIE’s website.
The Strategic Innovation Fund allocates repayable and non-repayable contributions to firms of all sizes across all of Canada’s industrial and technology sectors. The program has a budget of $1.26 billion over five years. It consolidates and simplifies the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative, Technology Demonstration Program, Automotive Innovation Fund and Automotive Supplier Innovation Program.
The Strategic Innovation Fund’s objective is to spur innovation for a better Canada. Specifically, it serves to simplify application processes, accelerate processing, and provide assistance that is more responsive and focused on results.
The program has five Streams, each with its own precise objective:
- Stream 1: Encourage R&D that will accelerate technology transfer and commercialization of innovative products, processes and services;
- Stream 2: Facilitate the growth and expansion of firms in Canada;
- Stream 3: Attract and retain large scale investments to Canada; and
- Stream 4: Advance industrial research, development and technology demonstration through collaboration between academia, non-profit organizations and the private sector.
- Stream 5: Supporting national ecosystems.
For more information, visit the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s website or contact their office.
Contact:
1-800-328-6189
or
Liana Daltoe
Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
(519) 562-8492
liana.daltoe@canada.ca
Ok, you’re a business who wants help finding programs or grants to support business operations and or expansion.
What kind of help do you want?
Ok, so you’re a business looking for advice.
Select from the options below to learn more about what advisory services are available to help your business grow.
Ontario’s one-stop source to business information, tailored investment solutions and valuable connections for investors looking to establish or expand their business in Ontario.
For more information, visit: https://www.investinontario.com/investment-services.
Contact:
info@investinOntario.com
1-800-819-8701
Our Innovation Advisors are located across Canada. They provide free, one-on-one assistance and use their industry experience and knowledge to help guide clients to the most appropriate innovation programs and services.
Innovation Advisors are entrepreneurs just like you! They have extensive networks, experience and expertise in a wide range of industrial sectors and plenty of success stories under their belts. They are familiar with the Innovation support eco-system in Canada because as executives and business owners, they have used many of the support programs that can help you too. Want to grow? Get in touch!
If you’re incorporated and creating a new innovative product, process or service, an innovation advisor can help you find funding, expertise, facilities and global opportunities.
For more information, visit: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/080.nsf/eng/h_00010.html.
Contact:
Rawl Banton
Innovation Advisor
Rawl.Banton@Canada.ca
(226) 821-2177
Canada Business Ontario is now FedDev Ontario Small Business Services. The information and services remain the same.
For more information, including Business Guides, visit: http://www.cbo-eco.ca/en/.
The City of Windsor’s Investor Support Program (ISP) is a cross-functional service program that guides strategic investment through all aspects of city approvals and requirements.
The objective of the ISP is to work proactively with strategic projects. An investment is categorized as “strategic” based on its economic significance for Windsor. Examples of projects that may be eligible for the ISP may include developments that generate knowledge-based jobs, office-oriented/industrial business parks, and major redevelopments of existing vacant properties.
To be eligible for ISP, strategic projects must meet one or more of the following characteristics:
- creates or retains a minimum of 50 jobs within the manufacturing sector or creates more than 20 jobs or retains a minimum of 35 jobs within any other targeted sector(s).
- is a major tourism investment expected to draw a minimum annual attendance of 100,000 visitors;
- is uniquely complex with multiple priorities and stakeholders; and,
- adds to the diversification of the local economy by developing a targeted sector identified by the City.
The city’s Economic Development Officer is assigned to each strategic investment and works proactively with other departments and external agencies to guide projects through the municipal process. This includes, but is not limited to planning approvals, construction permits, licensing requirements, utilities, technology requirements, tax and fee estimations, etc.
Contact:
City of Windsor’s Economic Development Office
(519) 255-6100 ext. 6608
mjohnson@citywindsor.ca
Ok, so if you’re a business looking for things like business documents, zoning, licenses and property taxes, then you’re in the right place.
Select from the options below to get help with that item.
An online collection of projects, programs, and policies courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) to help you support agriculture and food.
To view, click the topic button on the PDF linked below:
https://ofa.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Agri-Food-Initiatives-Directory-FINAL.pdf.
Magnet is a not-for-profit, digital social innovation platform co-created by Ryerson University in partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce in 2014.
Our mission is to accelerate inclusive economic growth for all in Canada by advancing careers, businesses and communities.
For more information, visit: https://magnet.today/.
BizPaL is a collaborative effort between all three levels of government. It helps entrepreneurs generate a personalized list of the business permits and licences they need, for all levels of government, to start or grow their business. Based on some generic information that you provide about your business, you will generate a customized list of permits and licences that you may need from the municipal, provincial, and federal governments.
To access the BizPal tool, visit the City of Windsor’s BizPal website.
Visit the City of Windsor’s website to see whether your type of business requires a license to operate at www.citywindsor.ca.
If you have questions or require assistance, please contact the City.
Contact:
(519) 255-6200
licenses@citywindsor.ca
For a complete list of property tax rebates and reliefs, including how to apply, visit the City of Windsor’s website at www.citywindsor.ca.
Zoning designations and other information can be found online at the City of Windsor’s website at www.citywindsor.ca by entering any municipal address.
Zoning maps can also be found online at the City of Windsor’s website at www.citywindsor.ca. Once opened, you can zoom into a desired location by selecting one of the sixteen areas of the map.
Ok, you’re a business who wants to improve their energy efficiency.
Select from the options below to learn more about what programs are available to help your business expand.
The Energy Efficiency for Industry program is offering cost-shared assistance to industrial companies to implement energy management projects, including CAN/CSA-ISO 50001 Energy Management Systems Standard pilots, and for two types of energy studies: Process Integration and Computational Fluid Dynamics.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) will provide financial assistance of up to 50 percent of eligible costs to a maximum of $40,000 for
- Energy Management Projects*
- Process Integration and Computational Fluid Dynamics Studies
Visit Natural Resources Canada’s website to learn more about the program, including funding details and eligibility, at www.nrcan.gc.ca.
Ok, you’re a business interested in learning more about the Save ON Energy programs that are run by the various local distribution companies in Windsor-Essex.
Who do you buy your electricity from?
Ok, you’re a business who buys their power from E.L.K. Energy Inc. and are interested in learning more about the Save ON Energy programs.
Visit their website or contact their representative below.
Contact:
Tom Wynn
Green Saver
1-877-616-3106
tom.wynn@greensaver.org
Ok, you’re a business who buys their power from EnWin Utilities and are interested in learning more about the Save ON Energy programs.
Visit their website at www.enwin.com or contact their office.
Contact:
Jeff Scott
EnWin Utilities
(519) 255-2888 ext. 726
jscott@enwin.com
Ok, you’re a business who buys their power from Essex Powerlines Corp. and are interested in learning more about the Save ON Energy programs.
Visit their website at www.essexpowerlines.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Marco Calibani
Essex Powerlines Corp.
(519) 946-2000 ext. 240
mcalibani@essexenergy.ca
Ok, you’re a business who buys their power from Hydro One and are interested in learning more about the Save ON Energy programs.
Visit their website or contact their representative below.
Contact:
Braedyn Stockfish, SEBT, CSEP, CEAIT, CMVPIT
Conservation Account Manager
(647) 457-8313
braedyn.stockfish@clearesult.com
Ok, so you’re a business who is looking for help with their expansion.
Select from the options below to learn more about what programs are available to help your business expand.
Businesses in the agriculture and agri-food sector can use the AgPal Program and Service Finder tool to identify which programs and services might be best suited to help their business grow.
Please contact at AgPal-AgriGuichet@agr.gc.ca.
Use the AgPal tool at agpal.ca.
The final version of the City of Windsor Brownfield Redevelopment Community Improvement Plan (CIP) was adopted by City Council on April 26, 2010. The Windsor Brownfield Redevelopment CIP applies to the entire urban area of the City of Windsor and contains the details of the approved financial incentive programs and a municipal leadership strategy that the City is promoting to encourage the clean up and redevelopment of brownfields sites in Windsor.
Eligibility:
Any property located in the city that is contaminated with respect to the Ministry of Environment standards as to the proposed use of the property. If someone has to spend money cleaning up a site to meet the Provincial standards prior to it being able to be redeveloped, they are likely eligible to recover those costs through the incentive programs.
Funding:
The City of Windsor is offering a number of attractive incentive programs designed to promote brownfield redevelopment throughout the city. These incentives include grants and tax assistance to encourage activities such as feasibility studies, environmental studies, environmental remediation, building rehabilitation, infrastructure upgrading, and even the construction of energy efficient “green” buildings.
Projects that demonstrate a commitment to “green” planning and building practices are eligible for an increased level of financial incentives.
The five financial incentive programs approved to encourage the redevelopment of brownfields in Windsor are:
- The Feasibility Study Grant Program
- The Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) Grant Program
- The Brownfields Property Tax Assistance Program
- The Brownfields Rehabilitation Grant Program
- The Brownfields Development Charge Exemption Program
For more information about the City’s Brownfield Redevelopment Community Improvement Plan including details about funding, eligibility, and how to apply, visit their website at www.citywindsor.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Greg Atkinson
Sr. Planner
City of Windsor
(519) 255-6543 ext. 6582
gatkinson@citywindsor.ca
The City of Windsor’s Economic Revitalization Community Improvement Plan (CIP), which came into effect on March 15, 2011, provides financial incentives to encourage new investment in targeted economic sectors for the purposes of diversifying the local economy and creating/retaining jobs. The CIP allows the city to take a variety of measures – to further the objectives of the Economic Revitalization CIP – that would otherwise be prohibited by Ontario’s Municipal Act. This includes the acquisition and preparation of land; construction, repair, rehabilitation, or improvement of buildings; the sale, lease, or disposal of land and buildings; and the provision of grants to owners or tenants of land – all of which must conform with the objectives and policies contained within the CIP.
The Economic Revitalization CIP contains four financial incentive programs to encourage new investment in targeted economic sectors. These programs address a wide range of business types including new businesses considering locating in Windsor, expansion of existing businesses within the City, and small businesses. They are:
- Business Development Grant program
- Business Retention Grant program
- Small Business Investment Grant program
- Development Charges Grant program
For more information about the City’s CIP program including details about funding, eligibility and how to apply, visit their website at: www.citywindsor.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Greg Atkinson
Sr. Planner
City of Windsor
(519) 255-6543 ext. 6582
gatkinson@citywindsor.ca
The City of Windsor’s Investor Support Program (ISP) is a cross-functional service program that guides strategic investment through all aspects of city approvals and requirements.
The objective of the ISP is to work proactively with strategic projects. An investment is categorized as “strategic” based on its economic significance for Windsor. Examples of projects that may be eligible for the ISP may include developments that generate knowledge-based jobs, office-oriented/industrial business parks, and major redevelopments of existing vacant properties.
To be eligible for ISP, strategic projects must meet one or more of the following characteristics:
- creates or retains a minimum of 50 jobs within the manufacturing sector or creates more than 20 jobs or retains a minimum of 35 jobs within any other targeted sector(s).
- is a major tourism investment expected to draw a minimum annual attendance of 100,000 visitors;
- is uniquely complex with multiple priorities and stakeholders; and,
- adds to the diversification of the local economy by developing a targeted sector identified by the City.
The city’s Economic Development Officer is assigned to each strategic investment and works proactively with other departments and external agencies to guide projects through the municipal process. This includes, but is not limited to planning approvals, construction permits, licensing requirements, utilities, technology requirements, tax and fee estimations, etc.
Contact:
City of Windsor’s Economic Development Office
(519) 255-6100 ext. 6608
mjohnson@citywindsor.ca
Funding under this stream helps to accelerate the growth of firms and assist with the adoption of new, innovative technologies that support scale-up, productivity, and the development of and entry into new markets to help companies become globally competitive.
FedDev Ontario is looking for:
- Innovative and globally-oriented businesses seeking to accelerate their growth.
- High-potential firms (including accelerator graduates) that are commercializing innovative products, technologies and processes.
- Firms with scale-up potential looking to improve productivity through the adaptation/adoption of highly innovative, first-of-its-kind technologies with the goal of global competitiveness and market expansion.
- Entrepreneurs and businesses in rural areas looking to grow, commercialize and improve productivity.
For more information on eligibility, funding, and how to apply, visit FedDev Ontario’s website at www.feddevontario.gc.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Jeff King
FedDev Ontario
(226) 339-2823
jeff.king@canada.ca
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in southwestern Ontario.
The types of support available include:
- funding support
- complementary services and support
The fund supports projects that:
- create jobs and build talent
- attract and encourage private sector investment
- lead to business growth and broad positive economic impacts
- encourage innovation, collaboration and cluster development
For more information about the Southwest Ontario Development Fund, visit the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Growth’s website at www.ontario.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Nancy Creighton
Senior Business Advisor
Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
Roundhouse Centre, Suite 214
3155 Howard Avenue
Windsor, Ontario N8X 4Y8
519-252-1704
nancy.creighton@ontario.ca
The Strategic Innovation Fund allocates repayable and non-repayable contributions to firms of all sizes across all of Canada’s industrial and technology sectors. The program has a budget of $1.26 billion over five years. It consolidates and simplifies the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative, Technology Demonstration Program, Automotive Innovation Fund and Automotive Supplier Innovation Program.
The Strategic Innovation Fund’s objective is to spur innovation for a better Canada. Specifically, it serves to simplify application processes, accelerate processing, and provide assistance that is more responsive and focused on results.
The program has five Streams, each with its own precise objective:
- Stream 1: Encourage R&D that will accelerate technology transfer and commercialization of innovative products, processes and services;
- Stream 2: Facilitate the growth and expansion of firms in Canada;
- Stream 3: Attract and retain large scale investments to Canada; and
- Stream 4: Advance industrial research, development and technology demonstration through collaboration between academia, non-profit organizations and the private sector.
- Stream 5: Supporting national ecosystems.
For more information, visit the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s website or contact their office.
Contact:
1-800-328-6189
or
Liana Daltoe
Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
(519) 562-8492
liana.daltoe@canada.ca
Ok, so you’re a business who is looking for help with new technologies, processes, and/or products.
Select from the options below to learn more about what programs are available to help your business expand.
The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) is a partnership with small- and medium-sized automotive parts suppliers in Ontario. The goal is to help modernize Ontario’s automotive supply chain and make it more competitive.
Your business could get up to $100,000 to help cover up to 50% of eligible project costs.
As a successful applicant, you are required to contribute at least 50% of remaining project costs through:
- your own business resources
- private or bank financing
For more information about the Ontario Automotive Modernization Program including eligibility and how to apply, visit the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Growth’s website at www.ontario.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Nancy Creighton
Senior Business Advisor
Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
Roundhouse Centre, Suite 214
3155 Howard Avenue
Windsor, Ontario N8X 4Y8
519-252-1704
nancy.creighton@ontario.ca
Funding under this stream helps to accelerate the growth of firms and assist with the adoption of new, innovative technologies that support scale-up, productivity, and the development of and entry into new markets to help companies become globally competitive.
FedDev Ontario is looking for:
- Innovative and globally-oriented businesses seeking to accelerate their growth.
- High-potential firms (including accelerator graduates) that are commercializing innovative products, technologies and processes.
- Firms with scale-up potential looking to improve productivity through the adaptation/adoption of highly innovative, first-of-its-kind technologies with the goal of global competitiveness and market expansion.
- Entrepreneurs and businesses in rural areas looking to grow, commercialize and improve productivity.
For more information on eligibility, funding, and how to apply, visit FedDev Ontario’s website at www.feddevontario.gc.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Jeff King
FedDev Ontario
(226) 339-2823
jeff.king@canada.ca
The Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation provides interest-bearing business loans to support innovation and growth in small and medium-sized enterprises. It is delivered locally by the Business Resource Centre of Essex County and can offer eligible businesses loans of $150,000 to $500,000 as a stable form of capital to support such growth activities as: late stage commercialization; new product or service deployment; new applications or markets, or development of new processes or technologies. The SOFII program makes financial aid possible when other forms of funding are unavailable.
The Business Resource Centre of Essex County (formerly known as Essex CFDC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing business financing and counselling to entrepreneurs in rural Essex County. Centrally located in the Town of Essex, the Business Resource Centre provides loans to businesses in rural communities of up to $250,000 for equipment, inventory, working capital, etc.
For more information, visit their website at http://ec-businessresourcecentre.ca and/or contact their office by phone or email.
Contact:
Diane Malenfant
General Manager
Business Resource Centre
39 Maidstone Avenue East
Essex, ON N8M 2J3
(519) 776-4611
dmalenfant@EC-businessresourcecentre.ca
Ok, so you’re a business who wants help selling products abroad.
What kind of help do you want?
Ok, you’re a business who wants to know what funding programs might be available to help with selling more products abroad.
Select an option below to learn more about each program, how it can help your business, and who to inquire with.
Businesses in the agriculture and agri-food sector can use the AgPal Program and Service Finder tool to identify which programs and services might be best suited to help their business grow.
Please contact at AgPal-AgriGuichet@agr.gc.ca.
Use the AgPal tool at agpal.ca.
Funding under this stream helps to accelerate the growth of firms and assist with the adoption of new, innovative technologies that support scale-up, productivity, and the development of and entry into new markets to help companies become globally competitive.
FedDev Ontario is looking for:
- Innovative and globally-oriented businesses seeking to accelerate their growth.
- High-potential firms (including accelerator graduates) that are commercializing innovative products, technologies and processes.
- Firms with scale-up potential looking to improve productivity through the adaptation/adoption of highly innovative, first-of-its-kind technologies with the goal of global competitiveness and market expansion.
- Entrepreneurs and businesses in rural areas looking to grow, commercialize and improve productivity.
For more information on eligibility, funding, and how to apply, visit FedDev Ontario’s website at www.feddevontario.gc.ca or contact their office.
Contact:
Jeff King
FedDev Ontario
(226) 339-2823
jeff.king@canada.ca
The Magnet Export Business Portal delivers targeted export events, resources and opportunities to you through a customized dashboard- and to your inbox! It was created with one goal in mind: to help Canadian businesses succeed in reaching export markets, and grow their businesses with international customers.
For more information, visit: https://export.magnet.today/.
The CanExport program provides direct financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada that are seeking to develop new export opportunities, particularly in high-growth priority markets and sectors. Delivered by the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) of Global Affairs Canada, in partnership with the National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP), CanExport provides financial support for a wide range of export marketing activities.
Program Highlights:
Non-repayable contributions from the CanExport program will range from $10,000 to $75,999 per project. The maximum annual CanExport contribution per applicant is set at $99,999 per government fiscal year, which begins on April 1 of each year and ends on March 31 of the following year. The amount of the contribution will be determined on a cost-sharing basis. The contribution can be for up to 50 percent of eligible expenses, that is, your firm must match available government funding on a one-to-one basis (i.e., including all other federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal sources for the same activity). Note also that the costs of a consultant for the production of a market study, for market research, for business to business (B2B) meetings, and matchmaking are limited to 25 percent of the total cost of the activity/project.
To be eligible, your business must meet these basic requirements:
- Be a for-profit company;
- Be an incorporated legal entity OR a limited liability partnership (LLP);
- Have a Canada Revenue Agency business identifier number;
- Have a minimum of one full-time equivalent (FTE) employee and a maximum of 250 FTE employees; and
- Have no less than $200,000 and no more than $50 million in annual revenue declared in Canada.
For more information about CanExport, visit the program’s website at http://international.gc.ca/canexport/.
Contact
Bill Norton
Trade Commissioner
(343) 203-0008
bill.norton@international.gc.ca
Ok, you’re a business who wants to know what services might be available to you to help you with export or market diversification.
Select an option below to learn more about each organization, how it can help your business, and who to inquire with.
Businesses in the agriculture and agri-food sector can use the AgPal Program and Service Finder tool to identify which programs and services might be best suited to help their business grow.
Please contact at AgPal-AgriGuichet@agr.gc.ca.
Use the AgPal tool at agpal.ca.
A Crown corporation of the Government of Canada, the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) connects government buyers with Canadian expertise through the negotiation and execution of government-to-government contracts. The Corporation focuses on areas where there is a clear role for government, operating in sectors outside of World Trade Organization agreements, such as aerospace and defence. They also focus on emerging and developing markets, where governments of other countries may require additional capacity to undertake complex and timely procurements and projects.
CCC can operate either as Prime Contractor selling to governments, or as a Procurement Agent sourcing Canadian goods and services on behalf of governments in other countries. The Corporation also procures equipment, supplies, and expertise to help the Government of Canada fulfill its in-kind aid contributions worldwide.
CANADIAN COMMERCIAL CORPORATION
350 Albert Street, Suite 700
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0S6
T: 613-996-0034
F: 613-995-2121
Toll-free in Canada: 1-800-748-8191
Questions about our services
CCC marketing department
info@ccc.ca
To learn more about CCC, and potentially begin the process of becoming one of their exporters, visit their website at www.ccc.ca
The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) will provide you with on-the-ground intelligence and practical advice on foreign markets at no charge to client companies and organizations so that you can make better, more timely, and cost-effective decisions.
If you are part of the Canadian business community, and contribute to Canada’s economic growth, have a demonstrated capacity for internationalization, and have good potential to add value to the Canadian economy, you can benefit from their services.
Meaningful economic ties include maintaining established offices, a subsidiary, a plant, a research and development establishment, or a joint venture in Canada. A capacity for internationalization is reflected in having researched foreign markets, dedicated human and financial resources, and having a business plan. Increased economic activity benefiting Canada could be increased exports of Canadian-made products or services, technology transfer, new job creation, increased research and development activity, or increased production in Canada.
TCS can help you successfully navigate the complexities of international markets, whether you’re looking to:
- Export,
- Establish your company abroad,
- Tackle a market access issue,
- Pursue a joint-venture or strategic alliance,
- Participate in global value chain,
- Seek technology and R&D partnerships.
For out more by visiting their website at tradecommissioner.gc.ca or by contacting the Trade Commissioner below.
Contact:
Bill Norton
Trade Commissioner
(343) 203-0008
bill.norton@international.gc.ca
The Enterprise Canada Network (ECN) is an industry-led single window platform that connects Canadian small businesses and researchers to qualified global opportunities, facilitates international partnerships, and creates trade through access to public and private sector resources.
ECN allows Canadians to easily identify and connect to new global business, technology, and research partners. Registered users have access to ECN’s core match-making services, including the ability to:
- Search Canadian and international open opportunities and view abstracts organized by industry sector, market, and technology;
- Find new opportunities through Opportunity Matching Alerts based on your product/service, technology, or research preferences delivered right to your email in-box;
- Connect to Qualified Leads and receive assistance from ECN staff to further qualify prospective partners and facilitate introductions;
- Receive advance notice on sector specific incoming, outgoing, and virtual trade and innovation events and missions;
- Post a profile about your business or technology. ECN can promote a user’s opportunity profile to Canadian and international industry/research players and connect users to qualified interested parties. Exposure can be broad or restricted to specific countries or types of partners; and
- Post calls for research proposals to raise broad awareness about needed expertise or join an international R&D consortium.
In addition, ECN is your single-window entry point to all Canadian trade and export support programs and publications. Visit our Export Assistance Navigator and our Publications search engine for more information.
To learn more about Enterprise Canada Network, visit their website at www.enterprisecanadanetwork.ca.
Investors from countries such as the U.S., China, Japan and India can now gain duty-free access to European Union (EU) countries through CETA by establishing operations in Ontario.
What is CETA?
CETA stands for Canada-European Union Comprehensive Trade Agreement, Canada’s most ambitious international trade agreement since NAFTA. CETA is unprecedented in the access it provides companies in Canada to EU consumers, businesses, governments at all levels, and other public bodies such as schools and hospitals.
When does CETA come into effect?
CETA comes into effect as early as September 21, 2017, removing 98% of duties on Canadian goods entering the EU.
Which countries are involved in CETA?
CETA is an agreement between Canada and the 28 member countries of the EU, a $17 trillion economy.
How can foreign investors take advantage of CETA?
Register to download our Foreign Investor’s Guide to CETA to learn how you can leverage this historic trade agreement between Canada and the EU.
Download the Foreign Investor’s Guide to CETA by visiting www.investinontario.com.
Ok, so you’re a business who wants help with human resources.
What kind of help do you want?
Ok, so you’re a business looking for help with hiring.
Select the option that best matches your hiring needs.
Ok, you’re a business who wants help hiring an apprentice.
Select the program below to learn how it can help your business.
The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) connects employers and students in grade 11 or 12. It offers students a chance to attend school and train as registered apprentices at the same time. Students are able to complete their credits required for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and gain apprenticeship training leading to a Certificate of Qualification in a skilled trade at the same time. The program is available to students who are at least 16 years of age and who have completed 16 credits.
Employer incentives and assistance include:
- Through OYAP, employers are provided with the opportunity to assess students before committing to employment or apprenticeship.
- WSIB coverage is provided by the Ontario Ministry of Education during the contract as long as the student is not paid a wage.
- OYAP provides employers with information on where access wage subsidies to assist with the initial hiring costs of OYAP graduates and summer students.
Visit OYAP’s website to learn more about the program and how it can help your business at www.oyap.com.
The Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit (AJCTC) is a non-refundable tax credit equal to 10% of the eligible salaries and wages payable to eligible apprentices in respect of employment after May 1, 2006. The maximum credit an employer can claim is $2,000 per year for each eligible apprentice. If your business hires an eligible apprentice, you qualify to claim the credit.
An eligible apprentice is someone who is working in a prescribed trade in the first two years of their apprenticeship contract. This contract must be registered with a federal, provincial, or territorial government under an apprenticeship program designed to certify or license individuals in the trade.
A prescribed trade includes the trades currently listed as Red Seal Trades. For more information, see Red Seal Program.
Ontario College of Trades
655 Bay Street, Suite 600
Toronto, Ontario M5G 2K4
Telephone: 647-847-3000
Toll Free: 1-855-299-0028
Fax: 866-398-0368
For more information about eligibility and how to claim the credit, visit Canada Revenue Agency’s website at www.cra-arc.gc.ca.
Ok, below is a list of employment organizations that can help you.
There are two different types of organizations that you can access employment-related services from. Both types offer job matching and placements; however, Employment Ontario Service Providers can sometimes offer hiring incentives to employers.
- Employment Ontario Service Providers are a province-wide network of community organizations that offer government-funded employment programs to Ontarians at no-charge.
- Private Employment Agencies are for-profit organizations that are in the business of matching employees with employers and vice-versa. Some of these services may have a cost associated with them.
Which type of organization do you want help from?
Okay, you’ve chosen to get help from an Employment Ontario Service Provider.
These organizations have contractual agreements with the government to offer a range of resources, supports, and services to respond to the career and employment needs of individuals and employers. The goal of these organizations is to help Ontarians find sustainable employment.
Any of the following organizations can help you, but we’ve listed them alphabetically. If you need help finding a location close to your home or place of work, select the “help me choose by location” button.
Tough choice indeed. Although Employment Ontario Service Providers offer services to all Ontarians in every community, they are not physically located in every community.
Select the community that would be convenient for you to visit to access Employment Ontario services, and we’ll narrow down the choices some more.
Only one of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Amherstburg. Please select it.
Only one of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Belle River/Lakeshore. Please select it.
Only one of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in the Town of Essex. Please select it.
Only two of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Kingsville. You can select either one.
The following Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Leamington. Select any one of them.
Nearly all of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Windsor.
There is no wrong door, so please choose from any of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers listed below to receive their contact information.
Below is a list of some of the privately-operated employment agencies in Windsor-Essex. They may or may not charge the job-seeker for their services, so be sure to ask. Clicking on their name will send you to their company website where you can get their contact information.
Ok, you’re a business and you want help hiring a person with a disability.
Select from the options below to learn more about what services and programs are available to help your business.
Discover Ability Network is a free online portal and resource that connects Ontario businesses directly to people with disabilities. Funded by the Government of Ontario and powered by Magnet, a data-rich, job-matching technology platform.
The Discover Ability Network includes a variety of associations, community and government partners:
• Business Council of Canada
• BioTalent Canada
• Canadian Manufacturers and Exports
• Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium
• Human Resources Professionals Association
• Information and Communications Technology Council
• Information Technology Association of Canada
• Magnet
• Ontario Chamber of Commerce
• OTEC
• Canadian Business SenseAbility
• Toronto Financial Services Alliance
• Government of Ontario
The online portal connects employers directly with persons with disabilities seeking employment, includes a 6-step guide acts as a great resource for employers, and provides answers to any questions employers may have when hiring—and retaining—employees with disabilities.
Visit the portal at https://windsor.discoverability.network/.
Contact:
Louie DiPalma
louiedipalma@occ.ca
(647) 243-3539
Through funding for organizations, the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities (OF) program helps people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment or self-employment.
Program Highlights:
- Wage subsidy terms are flexible and negotiable
- Reduces hiring and training costsAddresses accessibility and accommodation expenses
Visit Service Canada’s website to learn more about the Opportunities Fund, including eligibility and instructions on how to apply at: https://www.canada.ca/
Whether you’re an employer looking to hire someone with a disability or you have a disability and want help finding a job, you’re in the right place.
There are three different types of organizations that you can access employment-related services from.
- Employment Ontario Service Providers are a province-wide network of community organizations that offer government-funded employment programs to Ontarians at no-charge.
- Community Organizations offering disability services are not-for-profit organizations that offer a variety of services, including some employment supports, to persons with a disability. These organizations generally have mandates that go further than just employment supports.
- Private Employment Agencies are for-profit organizations that are in the business of matching employees with employers and vice-versa. Some of these services may have a cost associated with them.
Which type of organization do you want help from?
Okay, you’ve chosen to get help from an Employment Ontario Service Provider.
These organizations have contractual agreements with the government to offer a range of resources, supports, and services to respond to the career and employment needs of individuals and employers. The goal of these organizations is to help Ontarians find sustainable employment.
Any of the following organizations can help you, but we’ve listed them alphabetically. If you need help finding a location close to your home or place of work, select the “help me choose by location” button.
Tough choice indeed. Although Employment Ontario Service Providers offer services to all Ontarians in every community, they are not physically located in every community.
Select the community that would be convenient for you to visit to access Employment Ontario services, and we’ll narrow down the choices some more.
Only one of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Amherstburg. Please select it.
Only one of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Belle River/Lakeshore. Please select it.
Only one of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in the Town of Essex. Please select it.
Only two of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Kingsville. You can select either one.
The following Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Leamington. Select any one of them.
Nearly all of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers have a physical office location in Windsor.
There is no wrong door, so please choose from any of the local Employment Ontario Service Providers listed below to receive their contact information.
Below is a list of some of the privately-operated employment agencies in Windsor-Essex. They may or may not charge the job-seeker for their services, so be sure to ask. Clicking on their name will send you to their company website where you can get their contact information.