The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce

A new federal government funding intiative is taking aim at propping up local economies with a program developed for Southern Ontario communities.

FedDev Ontario is now accepting applications under the Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP) for projects that will stimulate local economies and enhance the growth and competitiveness of Southern Ontario businesses and communities.

The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Develoment Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), recently announced that eligible small-and medium-sized businesses, municipalities, not-for-profits, Aboriginal organizations, colleges and universities are invited to submit applications.

"Our government is creating jobs and stimulating the Southern Ontario economy," Goodyear said. "FedDev Ontario will support people, communities and businesses in the region and promote long-term growth."

The SODP takes into account consultations with community leaders and economic dvelopment stakeholders throughout the Southern Ontario Region. It will build upon the assets and strengths of communities to create an environment where businesses can thrive, and maximize the potential of Southern Ontario with a focus on economic development, innovation and diversification.

Priority will be given to organizations or enterprises located in communiteis in Southern Ontario with populations of 500,000 or less, as well as to communities whose economies are less diversidfied and/or are reliant on a limited number of employers. FedDev Ontario will also favour projects that can be started quickly and be completed by March 21, 2010.

Overall funding for the SODP is $100 million in 2009 - 2010, with $40 million available for this intake process. Applications will be accepted from now until December 1, 2009.

For more information or to download an application form, visit the website at www.southernontario.gc.ca

~Economic Development & Tourism Services- St. Catharines

UPDATE November 2009 Newsletter