Economic Growth Program - Rural Growth Initiative

The purpose of the Economic Growth Program is to reduce barriers for economic growth through investing in activities which cultivate entrepreneurialism and support the implementation of strategic economic development plans. 

Who is eligible for funding assistance?

1. Incorporated non-profit organizations which have a mandate for community and/or economic development.
2. Non-profit cooperatives that do not share dividends.
3. Municipal governments.
4. Band councils (or their development agency)

What funding assistance is available?

Under the Economic Growth Program, financial assistance is in the form of a non-repayable contribution, normally to a maximum contribution of 50 per cent of eligible costs up to $50,000 per application. The client should normally contribute a monetary minimum of ten percent of the total project cost (in kind ineligible).  Federal and Provincial funding cannot normally exceed 75 per cent of the total project costs.

What are the eligible activities?

• Regional economic development projects – To implement regional economic development plans which have a demonstrable positive economic impact for more than one community.
• Business networking events and mixers for youth entrepreneurs – to support events which aim to connect youth with established entrepreneurs.
• Services to match youth entrepreneurs with mentors – To support ongoing mentorship.
• Funding for youth entrepreneurs networks – To support the next generation of rural entrepreneurs.
• Professional services to develop online information platforms – To provide community or region-specific information for entrepreneurs.
• Professional communication services – To develop online and print content which “tells the story” of economic successes, including features of rural entrepreneurs.
• Career Days – to expose youth to career paths which are important for rural communities.
• Implementation of experiential tourism projects – To support innovative and niche tourism ventures in rural communities.

What are considered ineligible activities?

• Costs of an organization’s core operations (including wages).
• Costs related to infrastructure.
• Plans (see Community Capacity Building Program for planning-related support).
• Activities which do not have a demonstrable positive economic impact.
• Activities which are not targeted at rural areas.

Application Process 

Applications are available from a Community Development Officer in your area. Please contact them for an application to help plan for your project (contact information below). 

Completed applications will be accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis until budget has been allocated for the fiscal year. 

Who do I contact for more information?

Please contact a Community Development Officer prior to preparing an application for funding: