Kasdkdedphtt / Depositphotos.com
Municipalities, non-profit organizations and Indigenous communities across southern Ontario can now apply for a share of $330 million in federal funding aimed at supporting local infrastructure projects over the next four years.
The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, known as FedDev Ontario, announced Thursday that applications are now open for the Local Impact Stream of the federal Build Communities Strong Fund.
The funding program is designed to support community infrastructure projects that promote economic development while improving public spaces and facilities used by residents.
According to the federal government, eligible projects could include upgrades to community buildings, recreation facilities, parks, trails and cultural spaces.
Federal officials say the program is intended to strengthen local economies and improve community vitality through investments that provide economic, social or environmental benefits.
In a statement, the Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario, Evan Solomon, said strong communities are critical to building a resilient national economy.
“Through FedDev Ontario’s delivery of the Build Communities Strong Fund, our government is investing in the community infrastructure that will help strengthen local economies, enhance community vitality, and create welcoming public spaces for people across the region,” Solomon said.
The Local Impact Stream is part of a broader federal infrastructure initiative announced earlier this year. Through Canada’s regional development agencies, the federal government will distribute $1 billion over four years to support community infrastructure projects across the country.
The national Build Communities Strong Fund was launched in April and will provide $51 billion over 10 years, beginning in the 2026-27 fiscal year, along with $3 billion annually on an ongoing basis to support public infrastructure projects.
Federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson said the fund is intended to deliver infrastructure investments at a scale not seen in generations.
Projects seeking funding through the current intake must be shovel-ready and publicly accessible.
Applications for projects expected to begin between April 30, 2026, and March 31, 2027, must be submitted by July 9. Projects scheduled to start on or after April 1, 2027, must apply by Aug. 6.
Eligible applicants include municipalities, not-for-profit organizations, Indigenous organizations and other public-sector bodies throughout southern Ontario.
(Steve Berard)
