| Congratulations to all of the successful recipients in Algoma-Manitoulin of the Rural Ontario Development program funding. Each of your projects are unique, but the goal is the same; supporting the local community. I wish each of your organizations great success with these meaningful projects. |
Funding will help attract investment, strengthen workforce capacity and build long-term growth
News July 3, 2026
Elliot Lake— As part of its plan to protect rural Ontario, the government is investing $107,723.10 to support economic growth and long-term prosperity in Algoma-Manitoulin. The funding is through the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program, a $20 million investment by the province to strengthen local economies, support rural workers and assist communities in planning for long-term growth.
“Congratulations to all of the successful recipients in Algoma-Manitoulin of the Rural Ontario Development program funding,” said MPP Bill Rosenberg. “Each of your projects are unique, but the goal is the same; supporting the local community. I wish each of your organizations great success with these meaningful projects.”
Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is supporting the following projects in Algoma-Manitoulin:
- $8,473.10 for the Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation to support the growth of the 4 Directions Food Bank.
- $10,000.00 for the Elliot Lake Granite Sport and Social Club to improve facility accessibility.
- $10,000.00 for the Etribe Media Network to support Indigenous business expansion in rural Ontario through the Waboos Enhancing the Market digital app.
- $29,250.00 for the Town of Thessalon to develop a new strategic plan prioritizing opportunities for community growth.
- $50,000.00 for the City of Elliot Lake to support the development of a five-year strategic plan identifying new opportunities for economic growth.
“The Rural Ontario Development program demonstrates our government’s commitment to supporting small, rural and northern communities across Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs. “Through investments that support local priorities and economic development opportunities, we are helping rural communities build strong foundations for long-term success.”
Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is investing over $5.5 million in 116 projects across rural Ontario.
Quick Facts
- The Rural Ontario Development program supports local projects from municipalities, small businesses, not-for-profits and Indigenous groups.
- Since 2019, Ontario has invested $34.3 million in 653 projects through the ROD program and the former Rural Economic Development Fund.
- The third intake for the ROD program opens on August 17, 2026.
- Learn more about the government’s plan to build safe, strong and prosperous rural communities in Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy.
Additional Resources
- Rural Ontario Development Program | ontario.ca
- Ontario Investing in the Success of Rural Communities | Ontario Newsroom
| Media Contact Rachel Scott Minister’s Office rachel.scott2@ontario.ca Ministry of Rural Affairs mra.meda@ontario.ca | news.ontario.ca/ministry name/en Disponible en français |