Burlington Business Grants & Incentives 2026

Overview: Business Grants in Burlington

Burlington, a vibrant city nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, stands as a strategic economic hub within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Its unique blend of urban amenities, natural beauty, and a strong industrial base makes it an attractive location for businesses of all sizes. In 2026, Burlington continues its trajectory as a diverse and growing economy, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The city's business landscape is characterized by a mix of established manufacturing and industrial operations, a burgeoning technology sector, a robust professional services industry, and a thriving retail and hospitality scene catering to its affluent and growing population.

Economic development priorities for Burlington in 2026 revolve around several key pillars: fostering a strong innovation ecosystem, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promoting sustainable development, and enhancing its appeal as a destination for both residents and businesses. This includes targeted efforts to attract and retain talent, improve infrastructure, and create a supportive environment for business growth. The city actively encourages investment in advanced manufacturing, clean technology, digital media, and life sciences. Understanding these priorities is crucial for businesses seeking grant funding, as programs are often aligned with these strategic goals. Accessing grants can provide critical capital for startups, expansion projects, technological upgrades, and workforce development, significantly contributing to a business's success and the city's economic vitality.

Municipal Grant Programs

Burlington actively supports its local business community through a range of municipal grant programmes, primarily focusing on revitalization, beautification, and economic development within specific areas. These programmes are designed to stimulate investment, enhance streetscapes, and encourage new business growth.

Burlington Downtown Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Financial Incentives Program

The Burlington Downtown CIP is a cornerstone of the city's efforts to revitalize its core. In 2026, this programme continues to offer significant financial incentives to property owners and businesses within the designated Downtown CIP area. The goal is to encourage private sector investment in property improvements, leading to enhanced streetscapes, improved building conditions, and a more vibrant commercial environment.

• **Façade Improvement Grant:** This grant provides funding for exterior improvements that enhance the architectural and aesthetic appeal of buildings. Eligible projects include new signage, awnings, exterior lighting, window and door replacements, brickwork repair, and accessibility improvements to the building's exterior.
• **Amount:** Up to 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of **$10,000** per property.
• **Eligibility:** Property owners or tenants (with owner's consent) within the Downtown CIP boundary. Projects must adhere to urban design guidelines.
• **Deadline:** Typically rolling applications, but funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis or through specific application windows announced annually. It's advisable to check the City of Burlington's website for 2026 specific dates.

• **Building Improvement Grant:** This grant supports more substantial building upgrades beyond the façade, which contribute to the longevity and functionality of the structure. Examples include structural repairs, roof replacement, interior accessibility modifications, and significant interior renovations that improve the commercial viability of the space.
• **Amount:** Up to 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of **$15,000** per property.
• **Eligibility:** Same as the Façade Improvement Grant. Projects must contribute to the revitalization goals of the CIP.

• **Tax Increment Equivalent Grant (TIEG):** For larger-scale redevelopment projects that result in a significant increase in the assessed value of a property, the TIEG can provide a substantial benefit. This grant effectively rebases the property taxes to their pre-development level for a set period, gradually increasing over time. This offers a significant reduction in property tax burden during the initial years post-redevelopment.
• **Amount:** Up to 100% of the municipal portion of the property tax increase resulting from the redevelopment, for a period of up to **10 years**. The grant amount decreases over the term.
• **Eligibility:** Available for major redevelopment projects within the Downtown CIP area that demonstrate a significant capital investment and increase in property assessment. Requires a detailed financial projection and project plan.

Burlington Business Improvement Area (BIA) Initiatives

While not direct grants in the traditional sense, the Burlington Downtown BIA (BDBIA) often administers or facilitates programmes and resources for its members that are akin to grant support. These can include marketing grants, training subsidies, or programmes to enhance the commercial viability of businesses within the BIA.

• **Downtown Burlington BIA Marketing & Event Partnership Programme:** The BDBIA occasionally offers small grants or co-funding opportunities for businesses participating in BIA-led events or undertaking marketing initiatives that benefit the downtown core.
• **Amount:** Varies, typically **$500 - $2,000** for specific initiatives.
• **Eligibility:** Businesses must be members in good standing of the Burlington Downtown BIA. Proposals must align with the BIA's marketing and event strategies.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Contact the Burlington Downtown BIA directly in early 2026 to inquire about any planned programmes or funding opportunities for their members.

Emerging Business Grant (Hypothetical, based on common municipal trends)

While not an official, continuously running grant programme in Burlington as of late 2023, many municipalities are exploring or implementing dedicated support for new businesses. In 2026, Burlington may introduce or pilot an "Emerging Business Grant" to attract and support startups or businesses relocating to the city, particularly in targeted growth sectors.

• **Potential Focus:** Support for businesses in tech, advanced manufacturing, creative industries, or sustainable technologies.
• **Potential Amounts:** Could range from **$2,500 to $10,000** for eligible startup costs, market research, or specialized equipment.
• **Potential Eligibility:** New businesses (less than 2 years old), demonstrating a viable business plan, commitment to creating local jobs, and operating within Burlington.

How to Apply for Municipal Grants:

• **Research:** Always begin by visiting the official City of Burlington website (burlington.ca) and searching for "Community Improvement Plan" or "Business Grants."
• **Contact:** Reach out to the City's Economic Development Office or the Planning Department (for CIP grants). They can provide the most current programme guidelines, application forms, and answer specific questions.
• **Documentation:** Be prepared to submit detailed project proposals, architectural drawings (for façade/building grants), cost estimates from licensed contractors, business plans, and financial statements.
• **Pre-consultation:** For CIP grants, a pre-consultation meeting with city staff is often mandatory and highly recommended to ensure your project aligns with programme objectives and design guidelines.

Actionable Next Step for Municipal Grants: For businesses in or considering the Downtown Burlington area, immediately review the Burlington Downtown CIP details on the City of Burlington website. Contact the City's Economic Development team at oed@burlington.ca or call 905-335-7757 in early 2026 to confirm programme availability, criteria, and application windows for the upcoming year. For BIA-specific support, connect with the Burlington Downtown BIA directly.

Regional & Provincial Programs

Beyond municipal initiatives, businesses in Burlington can tap into a broader range of grant programmes offered at the regional and provincial levels. These programmes often have larger funding envelopes and broader eligibility criteria, catering to a wider array of business needs, from innovation and job creation to sector-specific development.

Niagara Region Community Improvement Plan (CIP) – Relevant for Bordering Businesses (e.g., Grimsby, Lincoln)

While Burlington is not directly in the Niagara Region, it's important to note that businesses bordering or operating in neighbouring municipalities that are part of the Niagara Region (e.g., Grimsby, Lincoln) might be eligible for their respective CIPs. This is a common scenario for businesses with operations spanning regional boundaries. For a Burlington-based business, this would typically only apply if they have a satellite location or significant operations within a Niagara municipality.

• **Façade and Building Improvement Programs:** Similar to Burlington's CIP, these programs in Niagara municipalities aim to enhance commercial streetscapes.
• **Amount:** Varies by municipality, typically up to 50% of eligible costs, often capped at **$5,000 - $15,000**.
• **Eligibility:** Businesses within designated CIP areas of specific Niagara municipalities.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your business has a presence in a bordering Niagara municipality, check their specific municipal website for CIP details.

Ontario Government Programs

The Province of Ontario offers a robust suite of programmes designed to support business growth, innovation, and job creation across various sectors.

1. Starter Company Plus Program

This highly popular programme is designed to help entrepreneurs aged 18 and over start, grow, or buy a small business. It's delivered through local Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs) – Burlington businesses would typically apply through the Halton Region Small Business Centre.

• **Focus:** Provides business training, mentoring, and grant funding.
• **Amount:** Up to **$5,000** in grant funding.
• **Eligibility:**
• Resident of Ontario and 18 years of age or older.
• Not attending school full-time.
• Proposing a new business or expanding an existing one (less than 5 years old).
• Business must demonstrate a viable plan and potential for job creation.
• Must be able to contribute at least 25% of the grant amount in cash or in-kind.
• **Process:** Applicants must complete business training, develop a comprehensive business plan, and pitch their idea to a review committee.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Contact the Halton Region Small Business Centre (halton.ca/smallbusiness) in early 2026 to inquire about the Starter Company Plus intake periods and application process. Spaces are often limited.

2. Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF)

SWODF supports economic development, job creation, and investment in Southwestern Ontario, including Burlington. It targets businesses undertaking significant expansion projects, adopting new technologies, or entering new markets.

• **Focus:** Supports strategic investments in advanced manufacturing, technology, life sciences, and other key growth sectors. Projects must create or retain jobs and contribute to regional economic diversification.
• **Amount:**
• **Grant:** Up to 15% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of **$1.5 million**.
• **Loan:** Up to 15% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of **$5 million** (repayable, interest-free during project phase).
• Total funding (grant + loan) typically capped at 30% of eligible costs.
• **Eligibility:**
• Business must be located in Southwestern Ontario (Burlington is included).
• Must have been in operation for at least 3 years.
• Must commit to creating at least 10 new jobs or retaining 20 jobs.
• Project must involve a minimum investment of **$500,000**.
• Must demonstrate financial viability and ability to complete the project.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Businesses planning significant growth or investment projects should review the SWODF guidelines on the Ontario government website (ontario.ca/business-grants) and contact the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade to discuss their project's eligibility and the application process. This is a competitive programme requiring a detailed application.

3. Ontario Scale-Up Vouchers Program (Hypothetical, based on current trends)

Recognizing the importance of scaling innovative companies, Ontario may introduce or expand voucher programmes in 2026. These programmes typically provide non-dilutive funding for specific services that help high-growth companies overcome barriers to scaling.

• **Potential Focus:** Access to specialized expertise in areas like market entry, intellectual property strategy, advanced manufacturing adoption, or digital transformation.
• **Potential Amount:** Vouchers could range from **$10,000 to $50,000** to cover the cost of external advisors or service providers.
• **Potential Eligibility:** High-growth SMEs (e.g., >20% annual revenue growth), operating in innovation-driven sectors, with a clear plan for using the voucher to achieve specific growth milestones.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Monitor announcements from the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade and organizations like the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) for new programmes aimed at scaling businesses.

4. Ontario Job Creation Partnerships (JCP)

While not a direct business grant for operating costs, JCP provides funding to organizations to create jobs for individuals who are unemployed and require assistance to prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment. Businesses can leverage this to offset labour costs for specific projects.

• **Focus:** Supports projects that provide meaningful work experience for unemployed individuals.
• **Amount:** Covers a portion of wages and mandatory employment-related costs (MECs) for eligible participants.
• **Eligibility:** Businesses must propose a project that provides temporary work experience, has a community benefit, and can accommodate suitable participants.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your business has a project requiring temporary labour and you are open to hiring individuals seeking work experience, contact Employment Ontario (employment.on.ca) or your local Service Canada centre in early 2026 to explore JCP opportunities.

5. Sector-Specific Programs (e.g., Ontario Media Development Corporation - OMDC, Green Ontario Fund)

Ontario also offers grants targeted at specific industries. For example, the Ontario Creates (formerly OMDC) provides funding for film, television, interactive digital media, book and magazine publishing. While the Green Ontario Fund was wound down, similar environmental or clean technology programmes may emerge or re-emerge.

• **Actionable Next Step:** Identify your industry's specific provincial agency or ministry and monitor their website for relevant funding opportunities. For tech, check the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI). For agriculture, check the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA).

General Provincial Application Tips:

• **Complexity:** Provincial grants are often more complex than municipal ones, requiring detailed business plans, financial projections, and clear project outlines.
• **Timelines:** Application periods can be specific and competitive. Start preparing well in advance of deadlines.
• **Consultation:** Many provincial programmes encourage or require pre-application consultations with programme officers. Use these opportunities to clarify eligibility and strengthen your application.

Federal Programs Available in Burlington

Federal government programmes provide a significant source of funding for Canadian businesses, often focusing on innovation, export development, job training, and access to capital. Businesses in Burlington are eligible for these national initiatives.

1. Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP)

While not a direct grant, the CSBFP makes it easier for small businesses to obtain loans from financial institutions by sharing the risk with lenders. This is a crucial programme for businesses unable to secure conventional financing.

• **Focus:** Helps small businesses obtain term loans for eligible assets and improvements.
• **Amount:** Loans up to **$1 million** from financial institutions, with a maximum of **$350,000** for leasehold improvements and equipment. The government guarantees a portion of the loan.
• **Eligibility:**
• For-profit businesses operating in Canada.
• Gross annual revenues of **$10 million or less**.
• Loans can be used for purchasing or improving land or buildings, purchasing new or used equipment, and financing leasehold improvements.
• Cannot be used for working capital, inventory, or refinancing existing debt.
• **Process:** Businesses apply directly to a financial institution (bank, credit union) that is an approved CSBFP lender.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your business requires financing for capital expenditures and has been turned down for conventional loans, discuss the CSBFP with your bank or explore other financial institutions that participate in the programme.

2. CanExport Programs

CanExport offers various streams to help Canadian businesses expand into international markets.

• **CanExport SMEs:** This programme provides financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop new export opportunities and markets.
• **Focus:** Supports export marketing and promotion activities. Examples include participation in international trade fairs, market research, business travel abroad, adaptation of marketing tools for foreign markets, and legal fees for intellectual property protection in new markets.
• **Amount:** Up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a minimum grant of **$10,000** and a maximum of **$50,000** per application. Businesses can apply for multiple projects within a fiscal year, up to a cumulative maximum of **$99,999**.
• **Eligibility:**
• Incorporated in Canada.
• For-profit business.
• Fewer than 500 full-time employees.
• Annual revenue between **$100,000 and $100 million**.
• Seeking to export goods or services to new international markets (excluding the US for most activities, though exceptions exist).
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your Burlington business is looking to expand internationally, thoroughly review the CanExport SMEs guidelines on the Trade Commissioner Service website (tradecommissioner.gc.ca/canexport) and prepare a detailed export plan. Applications are competitive and require clear objectives and measurable outcomes.

• **CanExport Innovation:** Supports Canadian innovators in forming collaborations and partnerships in foreign markets to commercialize their technologies.
• **Focus:** Helps Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), academic institutions, and non-profit research centres pursue international R&D collaborations.
• **Amount:** Up to 75% of eligible expenses, to a maximum of **$75,000** per project.
• **Eligibility:** Similar to CanExport SMEs, but with a focus on R&D and technology commercialization.

3. Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

FedDev Ontario plays a critical role in supporting economic growth and diversification in Southern Ontario, including Burlington. They offer various programmes with different focuses.

• **Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP):** This programme provides interest-free repayable contributions (loans) to high-growth businesses to accelerate their growth, adoption of new technologies, and expansion into new markets.
• **Focus:** Supports businesses with significant potential for growth, job creation, and economic impact. Projects typically involve adopting advanced manufacturing processes, developing innovative products/services, or expanding production capacity.
• **Amount:** Typically **$500,000 to $10 million** (repayable contribution).
• **Eligibility:**
• For-profit businesses in Southern Ontario.
• Demonstrated strong track record of growth and profitability.
• Projects must result in significant economic benefits (job creation, revenue growth, R&D investment).
• Minimum project cost of **$1 million**.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your Burlington-based business is a high-growth company with a large-scale project, visit the FedDev Ontario website (feddevontario.gc.ca) and review the BSP programme. Pre-submission consultation with FedDev Ontario staff is highly recommended due to the complexity and scale of these applications.

• **Other FedDev Ontario Programs:** FedDev Ontario also periodically launches targeted programmes for specific sectors (e.g., advanced manufacturing, clean technology) or initiatives (e.g., rural economic development).
• **Actionable Next Step:** Regularly check the FedDev Ontario website for new programme announcements, as these can change frequently based on federal priorities.

4. Canada Job Grant

This programme provides direct financial support to employers for training their workforce. It's an excellent opportunity for Burlington businesses to invest in their employees' skills development.

• **Focus:** Helps employers offset the cost of training current or new employees. Training can be provided by third-party trainers (e.g., colleges, private trainers).
• **Amount:** The grant covers up to two-thirds of eligible training costs, to a maximum of **$10,000** per trainee. Employers contribute the remaining one-third. If hiring and training an unemployed individual, the grant may cover 100% of costs, up to $15,000.
• **Eligibility:**
• Employers must contribute at least one-third of the direct training costs.
• Training must be delivered by an eligible third-party trainer.
• Training cannot be for mandatory certifications or basic health and safety.
• Trainees must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons entitled to work in Canada.
• **Process:** Administered provincially. Burlington businesses would apply through Employment Ontario.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your business has identified skill gaps or needs to upskill its workforce, explore the Canada-Ontario Job Grant on the Employment Ontario website (employment.on.ca/jobgrant) or contact your local Service Canada centre. Plan your training needs and obtain quotes from eligible training providers.

General Federal Application Tips:

• **National Scope:** Federal programmes are highly competitive as they are open to businesses across Canada.
• **Rigorous Application:** Expect detailed applications, comprehensive business plans, financial projections, and often, independent audits.
• **Longer Timelines:** The application and approval process for federal grants can be lengthy. Start early.

Grants by Industry

Grant programmes are often tailored to specific industries, recognizing their unique challenges and growth potential. Burlington's diverse economy means that businesses across various sectors can find relevant funding.

For Contractors & Trades (Construction, Renovation, Landscaping, etc.)

• **Municipal CIP Grants (Burlington Downtown CIP):** While primarily for property owners, contractors benefit indirectly as these grants stimulate renovation projects. Contractors can also inform their clients about these grants. For façade and building improvements, this is a direct driver of business.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Network with property owners in the Downtown Burlington CIP area and educate them on the available grants.
• **Canada Job Grant:** Excellent for upskilling tradespeople in new techniques, safety certifications (beyond basic), or advanced equipment operation.
• **Amount:** Up to $10,000 per trainee.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Identify specific training needs for your crew (e.g., new building codes, green construction techniques, advanced machinery operation) and seek quotes from accredited training providers.
• **Provincial Apprenticeship Training Incentives:** While not direct grants to businesses, Ontario offers various employer incentives for hiring and training apprentices (e.g., Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit, Completion Bonuses). These significantly reduce the cost of developing skilled trades.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Connect with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development and local apprenticeship offices to understand available incentives for taking on apprentices.

For Retail & Restaurants

• **Municipal CIP Grants (Burlington Downtown CIP):** Directly applicable for businesses in the downtown core for façade upgrades, accessibility improvements, and interior renovations that enhance the customer experience.
• **Amount:** Façade up to $10,000, Building up to $15,000.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Prioritize aesthetic or accessibility improvements that would directly attract more customers or improve operational efficiency within the downtown core.
• **Burlington Downtown BIA Initiatives:** As mentioned, the BIA may offer small grants or co-funding for marketing, events, or specific initiatives that benefit downtown businesses.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Actively participate in BIA meetings and programmes to learn about opportunities.
• **Starter Company Plus (for new businesses):** Ideal for new restaurant or retail ventures looking for initial capital and mentorship.
• **Amount:** Up to $5,000.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Develop a robust business plan that highlights market differentiation and growth potential.
• **Canada Job Grant:** Useful for training staff in customer service excellence, new point-of-sale systems, culinary skills, or food safety certifications (if beyond basic requirements).
• **Actionable Next Step:** Investigate specialized training programmes to elevate your staff's skills and customer experience.

For Professional Services (Consulting, Legal, Accounting, Marketing, etc.)

• **CanExport SMEs:** Excellent for professional service firms looking to expand their client base internationally. Market research, travel to meet prospective clients, and adapting marketing materials for foreign markets are eligible.
• **Amount:** Up to $50,000.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Identify specific international markets where your services are in demand and develop a targeted export strategy.
• **Canada Job Grant:** Applicable for training staff in new software, advanced certifications, or specialized consulting methodologies.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Invest in continuous professional development for your team to stay competitive.
• **FedDev Ontario (BSP for high-growth firms):** For larger, high-growth professional services firms that are innovating in their service delivery (e.g., AI-driven consulting platforms, unique proprietary methodologies) and planning significant expansion.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your firm is scaling rapidly with an innovative approach, explore the BSP programme for repayable contributions.
• **Ontario Scale-Up Vouchers (Hypothetical):** If introduced, these could support professional services firms seeking expert advice on market entry, IP protection, or digital transformation.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Monitor provincial announcements for programmes supporting high-growth service businesses.

For Technology & Innovation (Software, Clean Tech, Advanced Manufacturing, Life Sciences)

This sector is a major focus for all levels of government due to its job creation and economic diversification potential.

• **FedDev Ontario (Business Scale-up and Productivity - BSP):** A primary source of funding for technology companies with significant growth potential, looking to scale operations, adopt advanced processes, or commercialize new technologies.
• **Amount:** $500,000 to $10 million (repayable).
• **Actionable Next Step:** Prepare a detailed growth strategy outlining market opportunity, competitive advantage, and projected economic impact.
• **Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF):** Similar to FedDev Ontario, this provincial fund supports technology companies undergoing significant expansions or adopting new technologies.
• **Amount:** Up to $1.5 million grant / $5 million loan.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Ensure your project meets the minimum investment and job creation thresholds.
• **CanExport Innovation:** Crucial for tech companies looking to collaborate with international partners on R&D and commercialization.
• **Amount:** Up to $75,000.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Identify potential international R&D partners and clearly define the collaborative project's objectives and commercialization pathway.
• **Scientific Research & Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Credit:** While a tax credit, not a direct grant, SR&ED is a massive incentive for R&D. It provides tax credits for eligible R&D expenditures in Canada.
• **Amount:** Up to 35% refundable for CCPCs, 15% non-refundable for others.
• **Eligibility:** Businesses conducting experimental development, applied research, or basic scientific research in Canada.
• **Actionable Next Step:** If your tech company is engaged in R&D, consult with an SR&ED specialist to ensure you are maximizing this credit.
• **National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP):** Provides advisory services, connections, and financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada to develop and commercialize technologies.
• **Amount:** Varies greatly based on project, often covers a portion of R&D salaries.
• **Eligibility:** Innovative SMEs with strong R&D capabilities and potential for global market impact.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Contact an NRC IRAP Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) early in your R&D process to discuss your project and potential eligibility.
• **Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) Programs:** OCI offers various programmes, often in partnership with other levels of government or industry, to support innovation, commercialization, and talent development in key sectors.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Regularly check the OCI website (oc-innovation.ca) for new funding calls and collaborative opportunities.

General Industry-Specific Tips:

• **Tailor Your Pitch:** Always frame your project in a way that aligns with the specific goals and priorities of the grant programme and the government body offering it.
• **Industry Associations:** Join your industry's professional associations. They often have information on sector-specific grants and can provide advocacy.
• **Proof of Concept:** For tech and innovation grants, strong proof of concept, market validation, and a clear path to commercialization are critical.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Applying for business grants can be a rigorous process, but a systematic approach significantly increases your chances of success. This guide provides a step-by-step methodology for Burlington businesses.

Step 1: Research and Identify Suitable Grants (Ongoing)

• **Action:** Don't just look for "grants." Understand your business need first (e.g., expanding, hiring, R&D, exporting, facade upgrade). Then, search for grants that specifically address that need and your industry.
• **Resources:**
• City of Burlington Economic Development Office (burlington.ca/economicdevelopment)
• Halton Region Small Business Centre (halton.ca/smallbusiness)
• Ontario Business Grants Search Tool (ontario.ca/business-grants)
• Innovation Canada Funding Portal (innovation.canada.ca/funding)
• Specific industry associations or provincial/federal ministries.
• **Key Information to Collect:** Programme name, funding amount, eligibility criteria, application deadline, contact person/department, required documents, programme objectives.

Step 2: Review Eligibility Criteria Meticulously

• **Action:** Before investing significant time, perform a thorough self-assessment against *all* eligibility requirements. Many applications are rejected solely on this basis.
• **Common Eligibility Factors:**
• Business type (for-profit, non-profit, incorporated, sole proprietor).
• Location (within specific city/region).
• Industry sector.
• Number of employees.
• Annual revenue.
• Project type (expansion, R&D, training, export).
• Financial contribution requirement (e.g., 50% match, 1/3 employer contribution).
• Time in business (startup vs. established).
• **Actionable Next Step:** If unsure about any criterion, contact the programme administrator directly for clarification.

Step 3: Attend Information Sessions and Pre-Consultations

• **Action:** Many grant programmes, especially provincial and federal ones like SWODF or FedDev Ontario, offer mandatory or highly recommended information sessions, webinars, or one-on-one pre-consultations.
• **Benefits:** These sessions provide invaluable insights into programme priorities, common pitfalls, and tips for a successful application. They also allow you to ask specific questions.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Check the programme's website for scheduled sessions and register well in advance. Prepare a list of specific questions about your project.

Step 4: Develop a Comprehensive Project Plan

• **Action:** A strong grant application is built on a clear, well-articulated project plan that directly addresses the grant's objectives.
• **Key Elements of a Project Plan:**
• **Executive Summary:** Concise overview of your project, its goals, and why it's a good fit for the grant.
• **Problem/Opportunity:** What challenge does your business face, or what opportunity are you seizing?
• **Project Objectives:** Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound (SMART) goals.
• **Activities & Methodology:** Detailed breakdown of how the project will be executed, including timelines and milestones.
• **Project Team:** Who will work on the project and what are their qualifications?
• **Expected Outcomes & Impacts:** How will the project benefit your business (e.g., increased revenue, job creation, new market entry, efficiency gains)? How will it align with the grant provider's goals (e.g., economic development, innovation)?
• **Risk Assessment:** Potential challenges and mitigation strategies.
• **Sustainability Plan:** How will the benefits of the project be sustained long-term?

Step 5: Prepare Financial Documentation

• **Action:** Grants require robust financial justification.
• **Common Financial Documents:**
• **Detailed Project Budget:** Itemized list of all project costs (eligible and ineligible), showing how the grant funds will be used and your own contribution.
• **Financial Statements:** Historical (past 2-3 years) and projected (next 3-5 years) income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• **Quotes/Estimates:** For equipment, services, construction, training, etc.
• **Proof of Funds:** Demonstrate your ability to cover your portion of the project costs.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Work with your accountant to ensure financial documents are accurate and professionally presented.

Step 6: Gather Supporting Documents

• **Action:** This can be the most time-consuming part. Start early.
• **Common Supporting Documents:**
• Business registration/incorporation documents.
• Resumes of key personnel.
• Letters of support (from partners, clients, industry experts).
• Market research reports, competitive analysis.
• Marketing materials.
• Environmental impact assessments (for certain projects).
• Proof of insurance.
• Lease agreements or property ownership documents.
• Architectural drawings (for façade/building grants).
• **Actionable Next Step:** Create a checklist of all required documents and systematically collect them. Ensure all documents are current and correctly labelled.

Step 7: Write a Compelling Application Narrative

• **Action:** This is where you tell your story and convince the reviewers.
• **Tips for a Strong Narrative:**
• **Address all questions directly:** Don't assume reviewers know your business.
• **Be clear and concise:** Use plain language, avoid jargon where possible.
• **Highlight alignment:** Explicitly state how your project meets the grant's objectives and priorities.
• **Quantify impact:** Use numbers to demonstrate expected outcomes (e.g., "create 5 new jobs," "increase revenue by 20%," "reduce energy consumption by 15%").
• **Show readiness:** Emphasize your team's capability and your business's financial stability.
• **Proofread meticulously:** Typos and grammatical errors detract from professionalism.
• **Actionable Next Step:** Write a draft, then have someone unfamiliar with your project read it to ensure clarity and logical flow.

Step 8: Submit Your Application

• **Action:** Follow submission instructions precisely.
• **Tips:**
• **Online Portals:** Many grants require online submission. Ensure you have an account and understand the system.
• **Deadlines:** Submit well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
• **Confirmation:** Keep a record of your submission, including any confirmation numbers.

Step 9: Follow-Up and Reporting

• **Action:** If successful, be prepared for reporting requirements.
• **Post-Grant Responsibilities:**
• **Agreement Signing:** Carefully review and sign the funding agreement.
• **Project Implementation:** Execute your project as outlined.
• **Reporting:** Submit regular progress reports and financial reconciliation reports as required by the grant provider. This is crucial for receiving subsequent tranches of funding and for future grant eligibility.
• **Audits:** Be prepared for potential audits of your project expenditures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• **Not reading instructions:**