In an increasingly unpredictable global trade environment, Ontario is stepping up to support businesses looking to grow, diversify, and strengthen their supply chains. The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) is a $50 million initiative designed to empower Ontario-based businesses to make bold, near-term investments that will help them expand their market reach, tackle trade barriers, and reinforce critical supply chains — especially in the face of rising U.S. tariffs.
But what does this mean for your business? Let’s break it down.
What is the Ontario Together Trade Fund?
The OTTF provides financial support, services, and strategic guidance to for-profit businesses looking to:
Serve more interprovincial and international customers
Re-shore critical supply chains previously dependent on U.S.-based suppliers
Develop new markets and revenue streams
Strengthen domestic competitiveness and create or retain Ontario-based jobs
Whether you’re a manufacturer, tech innovator, or a company navigating sector-specific challenges, this fund is tailored to help you build resiliency, enhance productivity, and unlock new trade potential.
Key Focus Areas of the Fund
To ensure alignment with Ontario’s broader economic vision, projects funded by the OTTF must address the impact of U.S. trade disruptions and advance one or more of these priorities:
Trade Diversity
Expand your sales portfolio beyond U.S. borders
Open new opportunities across Canadian provinces and other international markets
Trade Security
Boost manufacturing capacity and competitiveness
Invest in advanced technologies and innovative processes that drive profitability
Support Ontario’s supply chain through reshoring efforts and domestic procurement
Job Creation & Retention
Projects should lead to meaningful employment outcomes, helping to grow Ontario’s skilled workforce
What Funding is Available?
The OTTF provides up to $5 million in grants or loans, depending on the project impact. In exceptional cases, projects may receive up to 75% of eligible costs, particularly if they offer significant economic or strategic benefit to Ontario’s economy.
Who’s Eligible to Apply?
To apply for OTTF support, businesses must:
Be for-profit, registered and operating in Ontario
Have a minimum of three years of operations and financial statements
Employ at least 5 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers
Invest at least $200,000 in an eligible project
Complete the project within two years
Demonstrate secured project financing at the start date
In addition, the project must be a distinct initiative, separate from day-to-day operations, that contributes to growth and diversification — such as entering new markets, reshoring production, or pivoting product lines. Important: Companies in sectors heavily impacted by U.S. tariffs (steel, aluminum, auto, etc.) will be prioritized, particularly those facing 30%+ revenue losses or pivoting to replace suppliers affected by tariffs.
Why it Matters?
In a time when global trade tensions and supply chain risks are front and center, the OTTF empowers Ontario businesses to take control of their future — by diversifying their markets, innovating operations, and investing in sustainable, homegrown solutions.
If your business is looking to adapt, scale, and compete in a more secure and diversified trade environment, now is the time to act.
Don’t wait — funding is limited and allocated based on project impact,contact us to start claiming it!
