Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program: Round 22

Overview of the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program: Round 22 program:

The Ontario Forestry Sector Investment and Innovation Program is a government initiative designed to support the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of Ontario’s forestry sector. The program provides financial assistance to businesses and organizations involved in the forestry industry to help them innovate, expand, and adopt new technologies. The goal is to enhance the economic viability of the sector while promoting environmental sustainability and job creation in Ontario’s rural and northern communities. Please see: Round 22 Stage I: March 21, 2025 Stage II: April 29, 2025

Benefits of the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program: Round 22 program:

• Financial Support for Innovation: The program provides funding for projects that introduce new technologies, processes, or products, enabling companies to stay competitive in the global market.
• Business Expansion Opportunities: Companies can access funds to expand their operations, upgrade facilities, or increase production capacity, leading to business growth and the potential to enter new markets.
• Environmental Sustainability: The program encourages the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies that reduce environmental impact, supporting the long-term health of Ontarios forests.
• Job Creation: By fostering business expansion and innovation, the program helps create and retain jobs in the forestry sector, particularly in rural and northern communities where forestry is a key economic driver.
• Industry Competitiveness: The program helps companies enhance their competitiveness by providing resources to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity.

Eligibility criteria of the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program: Round 22 program:

• Eligible Applicants: The program is open to businesses, municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profit organizations involved in the forestry sector in Ontario.
• Project Focus: Eligible projects must focus on innovation, productivity improvements, business expansion, or the adoption of sustainable practices within the forestry sector. This could include new technology adoption, facility upgrades, process improvements, or product development.
• Location: Projects must be located in Ontario, with a particular focus on benefiting rural and northern communities where the forestry sector is a significant part of the local economy.
• Financial Viability: Applicants must demonstrate the financial viability of their project, including the ability to manage and complete the project within the proposed timeline and budget.