Rural Transit Solutions Fund

The Rural Transit Solutions Fund supports rural, remote, Indigenous, and Northern communities in Canada by funding innovative, locally-driven public transit projects that improve accessibility and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Government of Canada

Overview of the Rural Transit Solutions Fund program:

Administered by Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, the Rural Transit Solutions Fund (RTSF) is a part of the Canada Public Transit Fund. The program addresses unique transit challenges faced by smaller communities, encouraging solutions such as fixed-route services, on-demand transit, and micromobility options like e-bikes. Eligible projects must aim to increase public transit use, enhance equity, and contribute to climate resilience. The program funds projects with capital investments, enabling communities to build or upgrade transit infrastructure, acquire vehicles, or enhance accessibility. Applicants with less than two years of transit management experience can apply for up to $250,000, while those with more experience or a feasibility study completed post-2020 may qualify for up to $10 million. The funding also prioritizes projects benefiting Indigenous communities.

Benefits of the Rural Transit Solutions Fund program:

Improved Transit Access: Increases mobility for rural and remote populations.
Environmental Benefits: Encourages the adoption of zero-emission and low-carbon transit options.
Economic Support: Promotes job creation and regional economic growth.
Increased Equity: Enhances access for vulnerable groups, including Indigenous communities.

Eligibility criteria of the Rural Transit Solutions Fund program:

Eligible applicants must be legal entities capable of entering binding agreements, including:
Municipal, regional, provincial, or territorial governments.
Public sector bodies, including municipally owned corporations.
Indigenous organizations, including band councils, tribal councils, and Indigenous development corporations.
Federally or provincially incorporated non-profits or charities.
Eligible Projects:
Purchase or retrofit of transit vehicles (e.g., buses, vans, e-bikes).
Construction of transit infrastructure, including bus stops, shelters, and accessibility upgrades.
Installation of active transportation components, such as bike paths and parking stations, integrated with public transit.
Transition to zero-emission transit systems, including charging infrastructure and driver training.