Economic Development Initiative

Over the next few years (ending March 31, 2013), FedDev Ontario will invest $4 million through the Economic Development Initiative (EDI) to support business and economic development activities that encourage sustainable growth in Ontario's Francophone communities (the official language minority community in Ontario), in two priority areas:

1. Community Strategic Planning activities that enhance the economic base and competitiveness of Francophone communities and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); and
2. Business and Economic Development activities that respond to the needs, and foster economic growth of Francophone communities in sectors such as Francophone tourism, cultural, knowledge-based and manufacturing industries. This priority area will also support Youth Internships.

EDI supports the Roadmap for Canada's Linguistic Duality action plan, which aims to strengthen linguistic duality, reinforce Canada's national identity and provide economic benefits for all Canadians.

The second Economic Development Initiative intake ending on September 16, 2009 is now closed. Projects in southern Ontario have been assessed and approved projects will be announced over the coming weeks. Please refer to the links in the right-hand menu for information on eligibility and selection criteria.

A public announcement on any future intake for applications under EDI will be made once details are finalized.

Should you have questions or inquiries with regard to the Economic Development Initiative in Ontario, please contact the designated FedDev Ontario Officer in Southern Ontario.