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Ontario Supporting Rural Economic Development in Ottawa

August 7, 2026

Funding will help attract investment, strengthen workforce capacity and build long-term growth

NEWS

OTTAWA – As part of its plan to protect rural Ontario, the government is investing $50,000 to support economic growth and long-term prosperity in Ottawa. 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.

“This Rural Ontario Development funding is a major win for the Village of Metcalfe and for rural communities across Ottawa,” said George Darouze, MPP for Carleton. “I was proud to advocate for expanding eligibility so rural Ottawa communities could benefit from this program, and today’s investment demonstrates the importance of ensuring communities like Metcalfe have access to the support they need to grow, enhance local infrastructure, and strengthen their local economy.”

Through the first intake of the ROD Program, the province is supporting the following projects in Ottawa:

  • $50,000 for a Rural Ottawa Public Realm Plans project, which will create public realm plans for the rural villages of Metcalfe and Carp to identify and conceptualize enhancements along their historic main streets, including placemaking, beautification and infrastructure improvements.

“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.

QUICK FACTS

  • 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 Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy.

QUOTES

“This investment gives us the opportunity to create a clear vision for the future of Metcalfe’s main streets and build a pipeline of shovel-ready projects that will help attract future investment, support local businesses and create a more vibrant place to live, work and visit.”

– Isabelle Skalski, Councillor, Osgoode Ward 20

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MEDIA CONTACT

Office of George Darouze, MPP – Carleton
1128 Mill St. Manotick, ON K4M 1A2
Tel.: 613-838-4425
george.darouze@pc.ola.org