Rural and north
Information about Northern Ontario, agriculture and local food. Learn about funding programs that support rural, northern and Indigenous communities.
Northern Ontario
Crown land
Learn about the economic development, tourism and recreation opportunities on Ontario’s Crown land.
Far North
How we partner with First Nations communities to protect the environment and spur economic development in the Far North.
Northern development
Information to help start a business, access support services or invest in Northern Ontario.
Ring of Fire
Learn about mining opportunities for the Ring of Fire and development in the Far North.
Mining and minerals
Information about mining claims, geology and mineral development in Ontario.
Agriculture and farming
Livestock and poultry
Find information about livestock production, including nutrition, business management, marketing, production and breeding.
Crops
Learn about field, fruit, vegetable and specialty crops, including tips for soil, water and pest management.
Soil
Learn how to keep your soil healthy through best management practices, including soil erosion, composting, nutrient management and soil testing.
Weeds
View and identify weeds found across Ontario that affect crops and livestock.
Agriculture business management
Get help to start, operate, grow and manage your farm business.
Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP)
Find funding to support farmers, processors and other agri-food businesses.
AgMaps
Create custom maps and find Ontario agricultural data using this interactive online tool.
Drainage
Learn about the Drainage Act and find resources for producers, municipalities and tile drainage contractors.
AgriSuite
Plan your nutrient application, calculate minimum distance separation between farm buildings and find other planning calculators and tools.
Research and innovation
Find research funding programs for the agri-food industry and learn about innovation in the sector.
Local food and food safety
Foodland Ontario
Learn about the local foods grown in Ontario, see what’s in season and find recipes.
Food safety and traceability
Learn about food label requirements, complying with legislation and how to get your Premises Identification Number.
Food inspection programs
Information about inspection programs for dairy, eggs, fish, meat, apiculture and foods of plant origin.
Rural economic development funding and programs
Explore the programs, tools and resources available to communities for economic development and revitalization projects.
Rural Economic Development (RED)
Get money to improve your rural community’s economy.
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
Explore funding opportunities for community, business and non-profit projects.
Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF)
How to apply for funding to support infrastructure projects in small communities.
Grassroots Growth Program (GGP)
Explore how you can help provide broader opportunities and greater benefits for the agri-food sector and rural communities in Ontario.
Agriculture Economic Development Program
Find out how you can support local agriculture to promote economic growth in your community.
Analyst: economic analysis software
If you’re part of an organization you may be eligible to access industry and job trends for your region.
Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E)
Learn how to strengthen businesses in your community.
Community Immigrant Retention in Rural Ontario (CIRRO)
Help newcomers and youth settle in your community and keep it economically vibrant.
Downtown Revitalization (DR)
Learn the steps you can take to make your rural community’s downtown area vibrant and appealing.
First Impressions Community Exchange (FICE)
Discover how well your community serves visitors.
Contact us
Ministry of Indigenous Affairs
Strengthens relationships, improves social conditions and builds economic opportunity for Indigenous communities across Ontario.
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
Supports Ontario’s agri-food sector, enforces and improves food safety and strengthens Ontario’s rural communities.
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
Oversees the province’s natural resources and works to safeguard Ontario’s forests, fisheries, wildlife, mineral aggregates, Crown lands and waters.
Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines
Promotes the development of a safe, reliable, secure and environmentally sustainable energy supply. Promotes northern economic and community development, oversees Ontario mineral sector and helps to deliver programs and services for Northerners.