The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program is a modernized and expanded initiative that replaces the former Rural Economic Development (RED) Program. It provides $20 million in funding over a two-year period to support rural communities and stimulate economic growth.

Application Deadline: September 24, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the ROD Program, applicants must meet both of the following requirements:

Eligible organizations include:

• Municipalities
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Indigenous communities or organizations
• Local services boards
• Small businesses with 1 to 20 employees

Chloe Langlois has worked over 13 years with the Government of Ontario, building expertise across agriculture, food safety, and rural development. She began her career in meat inspection, later providing advisory support to agriculture and agri-food manufacturers across Northern Ontario. Today, she works in community economic development with the Ministry of Rural Affairs, supporting small municipalities and Indigenous communities in fostering growth and opportunity. At home she enjoys time with her 10 year old son and partner, spending time at the lake or travelling.

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