THUNDER BAY – Thunder Bay is now eligible for provincial funding under the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program, opening the door for the city, local businesses, and organizations to apply for support aimed at strengthening rural economies.
The change comes after lobbying by the Thunder Bay Economic Development Commission (CEDC), the City of Thunder Bay, and the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce. Until now, Thunder Bay’s urban label made it ineligible, despite facing challenges common in rural and northern areas, such as long distances, limited services, and transportation barriers.
The province updated its definition of “rural” to include census subdivisions in northern Ontario, making Thunder Bay eligible.
“This investment will help create jobs, support local projects, and grow Thunder Bay’s economy,” said Jamie Taylor, CEO of the CEDC, in a news release.
Funding is available to small businesses with up to 20 employees, non-profit and Indigenous organizations, local services boards, and the municipality. Eligible projects include workforce recruitment and retention, business expansion, and community infrastructure improvements.
Mayor Ken Boshcoff said the decision shows the province understands the needs of Northern Ontario and supports long-term economic growth.
The ROD Program includes funding for economic development projects, workforce initiatives, and community infrastructure, with grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 depending on the stream.
Charla Robinson, president of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, said access to the program will help support investment and resilience in the community.
