Funding will help attract investment, strengthen workforce capacity and build long-term growth
As part of its plan to protect rural Ontario, the government is investing $412,479 in total funding to support economic growth and long-term prosperity in Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston. 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.
“The Rural Ontario Development Program is an important investment in the future of our rural communities,” said John Jordan, MPP for Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston.” Whether it’s supporting community projects, expanding economic opportunities, or helping organizations deliver vital services, this funding from Minister Thompson and our government will provide rural communities with the tools they need to grow and thrive.”
Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is supporting the following projects:
- $143,500 for Rural FASD, to strengthen rural economic development through Reimagining Neurodiversity
- $35,000 to the County of Lanark, for its Lanark County Wide Business, Retention and Expansion Project
- $164,200 to the County of Frontenac, for the rehabilitation of the K&P Trail – Phase 6 – Snow Road Station to Wilbur
- $17,149 to Central Frontenac, for its Railway Heritage Enhancement Project
- $24,500 to the Township of Lanark Highlands, for an economic development strategy for the township
- $24,000 to the Town of Perth, for its Business Retention, Expansion and Inclusive Workforce Development Project
- $3,500 to Grains & Goods Bakery in Sydenham for its Product Diversification Plan and Succession Plan
- $630 to Kelly’s Flowers & Gift Boutique for it’s Growing Local: Kelly’s Expansion Project
“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.
- 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
Quotes
“Rural FASD looks forward to working with the Ministry of Rural Affairs and MPP’s John Jordan and Steve Clark in supporting neurodivergent people gain meaningful employment. Through this grant, we will be able to increase the knowledge capacity of neurodivergent people, employment counselors and employers in the Counties of Lanark and Leeds-Grenville regarding essential accommodations in recruiting, interviewing, hiring and retaining neurodivergent people in the work force.” – Rob More – Chair, Rural FASD Support Network
“The Rural Ontario Development Program’s support for K&P Trail rehabilitation is a tremendous milestone for Frontenac County because it marks the substantial completion of this valuable economic development project. The trail serves as a community asset that is for the benefit of business operators, residents and visitors to the region.” – Bill Saunders, Warden, County of Frontenac.”
“The Township of North Frontenac is pleased that the Province of Ontario appreciates how important the K&P Trail initiative is to our local economy and thanks them for their generous financial support.” – Gerry Lichty, Mayor of North Frontenac
Additional Resources
- Rural Ontario Development Program | ontario.ca
- Ontario Investing in the Success of Rural Communities | Ontario Newsroom
MPP John Jordan, Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston
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