The federal and Ontario governments are investing up to $20 million in a new initiative aimed at helping farmers, food processors and agribusinesses expand sales of Ontario-grown products in global markets.
Announced Tuesday, the funding will be delivered through the newly launched Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Initiative, designed to strengthen competitiveness across Ontario’s agri-food sector and reduce exposure to trade disruptions, tariffs and ongoing economic uncertainty.
The initiative falls under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership and supports Ontario’s broader Grow Ontario Strategy, which focuses on long-term resiliency, job creation and market expansion for the province’s nearly $52-billion agri-food industry.
“Expanding markets for Ontario food products ensures farmers and food processors have more reliable export opportunities,” federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald said in a provincial release. “We are building a stronger, more resilient future for agriculture by improving market access and leveraging our shared strengths.”
The initiative will open for applications on February 17, 2026, and will support projects through three main funding streams.
The first stream focuses on market development and diversification planning, helping businesses prepare for entry into new or expanded markets. A second stream supports the implementation of market development strategies, including new product development and broader marketing efforts. The third stream provides funding for equipment and technology investments, such as production upgrades required to meet specifications for new domestic or export markets.
Funding will cover a portion of eligible project costs, with cost-share levels and maximum funding amounts varying depending on the type of proposal. Additional support will be available for export development projects targeting non-U.S. markets, while assistance will also remain available for U.S.-focused initiatives.
The Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Initiative will be delivered by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. EST on March 17, 2026.
