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Business Planning

80 Ontario-Based Funding Opportunities for Artists in 2024

In 2024, Ontario presents a rich tapestry of funding opportunities for artists across a wide array of disciplines. These funding programs, primarily in the form of grants, are complemented by various tax credits, offering substantial financial support to assist artists in achieving their creative goals and dreams. The range of available programs ensures that regardless of an artist’s discipline, from digital gaming to music to literature, there are relevant funding avenues to explore.

Detailed Overview of Ontario-Based Funding Programs for Artists in 2024

  1. Ontario Creates – Film Fund – Development Stream: This initiative supports the various stages of film production in Ontario, providing crucial assistance to producers.
  2. Ontario Creates – Film Fund – Marketing and Distribution Initiative (MDI): Aimed at Ontario Creates Film Fund producers, this initiative assists in the marketing and distribution of film projects.
  3. Ontario Creates – Trillium Book Award: An award established by the Ontario government to spotlight the diversity and excellence of writing in Ontario.
  4. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Animating Historic Sites: Offers funding for artists to animate or reimagine selected historic sites within Toronto, fostering a connection between art and heritage.
  5. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Artists In The Library: Grants are provided for artist residencies in selected branches of the Toronto Public Library, promoting community engagement through the arts.
  6. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Community Arts Annual Operating: Supports ongoing arts initiatives by non-profit organizations within Toronto’s diverse communities.
  7. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Dance Projects: Funds dance productions, creations, and projects, nurturing the development of professional dance in Toronto.
  8. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Indigenous Arts Projects: An annual, multi-disciplinary project grant program for Indigenous artists and collectives, aiming to increase Indigenous art creation and presentation in Toronto.
  9. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Literary Arts Projects: Supports literary projects, including the production, presentation, and related activities, enhancing Toronto’s literary arts scene.
  10. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Newcomer and Refugee Arts Engagement: Backs projects that engage newcomers and refugees in the arts, fostering inclusion and integration.
  11. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Open Door: A grant program for innovative projects that show potential for change in the arts sector.
  12. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Theatre Projects: Offers funding for the creation and presentation of professional theatre projects in Toronto.
  13. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – Visual and Media Arts Projects: Provides funding for projects involving the distribution or exhibition of contemporary media and visual arts in Toronto.
  14. Ontario Arts Council: Hosts a wide variety of grant programs for different artistic disciplines, supporting both individuals and organizations.

Ontario Artist Tax Credits in 2024

  1. Ontario Creates Ontario Book Publishing Tax Credit: A refundable tax credit for eligible expenses by Ontario book publishing companies, promoting literary works.
  2. Ontario Film & Television Tax Credit: Offers refundable credits based on labor expenses for film and television production companies operating in Ontario.
  3. Ontario Production Services Tax Credit: A refundable credit for production expenses incurred by qualifying corporations for eligible film or television productions in Ontario.
  4. Ontario Computer Animation & Special Effects Tax Credit: Provides an 18% refundable tax credit for qualified labor expenses related to computer animation and special effects activities in the province.
  5. Ontario Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit: A straightforward tax credit for Ontario-based corporations creating interactive digital products, covering 40% of eligible expenses.

In 2024, Ontario’s funding landscape for artists is both diverse and robust, covering an extensive range of artistic disciplines and endeavors. From film and literature to dance and digital arts, these programs and tax incentives provide vital support to artists and organizations at various stages of their creative journeys. Artists in Ontario are encouraged to delve into these opportunities to secure the support that aligns with their creative projects and professional aspirations, thereby enhancing the vibrancy and diversity of the province’s artistic landscape.

Business Advice

8 Ontario-Based Funding Initiatives for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities in 2024

In Ontario, 2024 presents a range of funding opportunities specifically tailored for entrepreneurs with disabilities. These programs are designed to assist in overcoming the unique challenges faced by disabled individuals in the business arena, ranging from start-up financing to operational support. While the specific programs targeting this demographic in Ontario may be limited in number, they are robust in their offerings and can be supplemented with broader federal initiatives.

Ontario-Based Funding Programs for Disabled Entrepreneurs in 2024

  1. Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services Ontario Disability Support Program Employment Supports: This flagship program in Ontario provides comprehensive support for disabled entrepreneurs. It offers essential funding for various start-up and operational costs, including the purchase of business tools, equipment, licenses, supplies, and certifications. In addition to financial assistance, the program extends its support through training and coaching, networking opportunities, and access to professional advice, all tailored to the specific needs of entrepreneurs with disabilities.

Complementary Federal Programs and Incentives

The federal government of Canada also offers a suite of programs and incentives that entrepreneurs with disabilities in Ontario can access. These programs are diverse, catering to a range of needs from technological innovation to agricultural sector support.

  1. Canadian Agricultural Partnership AgriDiversity Program: This program assists non-profit groups in agriculture, including those that represent individuals with disabilities. It aims to address and overcome barriers faced by disabled individuals in the agricultural business sector.
  2. Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada Accessible Technology Program: This initiative provides co-funding for projects led by non-profits, the private sector, and research institutes. It focuses on developing new adaptive and assistive digital devices and technologies to ease the participation of Canadians with disabilities in the digital economy.
  3. Rise Asset Development Grant and Loan Programs: Unique in its focus, this national charity program provides resources, training, mentorship, and microloans specifically for individuals with histories of addiction or mental health challenges, facilitating their path to sustained self-employment.
  4. Government of Canada, Canada Revenue Agency Other Business Expenses Deduction: This tax incentive is available to all entrepreneurs, including those with disabilities. It helps alleviate the financial burden associated with hiring and accommodating employees with disabilities, covering costs related to modifications made for accessibility and inclusivity in the workplace.

The landscape for disabled entrepreneurs in Ontario in 2024, although not vast in terms of the number of specific programs, is nevertheless rich in opportunities and resources. These initiatives not only provide the necessary financial backing but also offer training, mentorship, and a support network, all crucial elements for the success of entrepreneurs with disabilities. When combined with the broader federal incentives, these programs form a comprehensive support system, enabling disabled entrepreneurs to start, manage, and grow their businesses effectively. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore these options and combine them with general entrepreneurial financing incentives for a holistic approach to business development.

Business Advice

11 Incentives for Launching Your Small Business

Armed with a promising business idea, a strategic plan, and investor support, you’re nearly ready to launch your business in Ontario. However, if you’re still seeking additional resources for land, equipment, or technology, Ontario’s range of support programs can provide the necessary boost.

Ontario offers a variety of programs tailored to help new businesses take off. These include loans and other financial aids, featuring low interest rates and flexible terms uncommon in traditional financial avenues. Explore these Ontario-specific programs to find the right fit for your business needs.

Ontario-Based Incentives

  1. Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services Ontario Disability Support Program: Employment Supports: This program is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs with disabilities, offering funding to start a business and acquire necessary tools, equipment, and supplies.
  2. IAPO Financing for Business Start-Ups & Expansion Program (FNBSEP): Tailored for Indigenous individuals in Ontario’s agribusiness or farming sectors, or those in other sectors in Eastern or South Central Ontario, this program provides grants for purchasing or expanding a business.
  3. Community Futures Ontario Access to Capital: Ideal for those who haven’t found necessary funding for capital investments, this program offers repayable financing through loans, loan guarantees, or equity investments.
  4. Metis Voyageur Development Fund (MVDF) Financing Solutions: Aimed at Metis entrepreneurs, this program offers flexible financing to purchase essential business items, from technology to land, particularly benefiting community-focused businesses.

Incentives in Southern Ontario

  1. VERGE Capital Startup Fund: Supports startups in Southwestern Ontario addressing social, cultural, or environmental issues by providing low-interest loans with flexible terms and minimal collateral requirements.

Incentives in Northern Ontario

  1. Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF) NADF Loans: Provides financing for Indigenous entrepreneurs in Northern Ontario for various business purposes, from unique projects to business establishment.
  2. Wakenagun Community Futures Development Corporation Investment Fund: Women in Business Loan: Offers loans to women entrepreneurs in the Wakenagun area for starting or expanding a business, requiring at least 10% equity.
  3. Wakenagun Community Futures Development Corporation Investment Fund: Youth in Business Loan: Available for young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 in the Wakenagun area, this loan program supports a range of business investments, requiring 10% cash equity.

Ontario’s diverse range of support programs can be the key to turning your business aspirations into reality, especially when significant initial investments are needed. Explore these options to find the financial support that aligns with your business goals and requirements.

Business Planning

11 Ontario Government Training Grants to Enhance Your Employees’ Skills

The continuous enhancement of skills is pivotal both for the growth of your business and the advancement of individual careers. Mitigating financial challenges in this pursuit, Ontario’s array of training grants, which we will explore, offers substantial support. These programs provide avenues for acquiring essential knowledge or new skill sets, benefiting both employees and the overall business processes or products.

Canadian Training Incentives

Nationwide, skill development initiatives offer an equitable playing field, with numerous financial programs available. These encompass apprenticeships, trades, and the entertainment industry.

Ontario Training Incentives for 2024

  1. Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women – Employment and Social Development Canada: Aimed at supporting women in Red Seal Trades where they are underrepresented, this program offers a taxable grant to cover training expenses.
  2. Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit – Canada Revenue Agency: This initiative provides a non-refundable investment tax credit for businesses that employ eligible apprentices, based on a percentage of the wages paid.
  3. Toronto Arts Council (TAC) – TAC Leaders Lab: In collaboration with the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, this program focuses on enhancing leadership capabilities within the arts and culture sectors of Toronto, targeting professionals with leadership potential.
  4. SOCAN Foundation – Professional Development Assistance Program: Grants are available for SOCAN-affiliated musicians to further their skills in various music genres, covering expenses for courses, workshops, and seminars.
  5. Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development – Group Sponsorship Grant (GSC): This grant encourages collaborative apprenticeship training, allowing groups of employers to share responsibilities and resources for a more efficient training process.

Canada Training Grants for 2024

  1. Canada’s Music Incubator (CMI) Artist Manager: Supports the entertainment industry, particularly small businesses, by funding programs that enhance music management skills.
  2. Canada’s Music Incubator (CMI) Artist Entrepreneur: This program assists artists and bands in building sustainable careers, providing comprehensive mentoring and expertise in various aspects of the music business.
  3. Employment and Social Development Canada Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG): Offers grants to apprentices in designated Red Seal trades, assisting in covering their training costs.
  4. Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada Digital Literacy Exchange Program: Enhances digital literacy among Canadians, supporting not-for-profit initiatives that provide digital skills training.

Ontario Training Incentives

Beyond national programs, Ontario presents unique funding opportunities to foster skill development.

  1. Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities Canada-Ontario Job Grant (COJG): Provides funding for employers to support short-term training for new and existing employees, accessible to businesses of varying sizes.
  2. Ministry of Finance Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit: Offers a tax credit for businesses that employed apprentices in a registered program before November 15, 2017.

Although the spectrum of skill development programs is not exhaustive, they cater to diverse sectors and needs. Staying informed of emerging opportunities is crucial. Investing in skill development is not just a strategic decision but a necessity in today’s knowledge-driven economy. How might these training incentives align with your business’s objectives for skill advancement?

Business Advice, Business Planning

Top 15 Financial Grants and Incentives for Entrepreneurs Aged 30 or Younger in Ontario

As an enthusiastic young entrepreneur ready to commit to long workdays and armed with a brilliant idea, you may be seeking a grant to jump-start your venture. The challenge? For young individuals, starting a business can be as daunting as acquiring a car or home. Yet, it’s entirely achievable.

These funding programs recognize the value of young entrepreneurs’ innovative contributions to the economy and the hurdles they face in securing funding. Despite the scarcity of startup grants, numerous programs offer financial support under favorable terms.

Canadian Young Entrepreneur Incentives for 2024:

Federally, various financing programs are accessible, providing multiple funding sources. After tapping into these national programs, young entrepreneurs can explore provincial funding options. However, it’s crucial to manage debt wisely to avoid overwhelming financial burdens and eligibility issues for future financing.

Incentives for Young Entrepreneurs for 2024:

  1. Renewal Funds and InvestEco – Youth Impact Challenge: This initiative invites Canadian youths aged 16 to 25 to form teams and propose projects addressing environmental or social issues. The top 30 teams receive funding and mentorship from leaders in business and non-profits.
  2. RISE Asset Development Youth Small Business Program: Targeting 16 to 29-year-olds, this program offers workshops and coaching to help launch or grow small businesses, alongside fostering business acumen and confidence.
  3. RISE Asset Development EnterpRISEing Youth Plus: A free, self-guided 15-module course for 16 to 29-year-olds, coupled with consultations from Rise Business Advisors, focused on small business development.
  4. Young Farmers Loan – Farm Credit Canada: Tailored loans for young farmers to acquire equipment, livestock, or company shares, offering customized financing solutions.
  5. Community Futures Oxford – Oxford Young Entrepreneurs (OYE) Grant Program: Aiming to engage Oxford County youth in entrepreneurial activities, this program offers business planning support and grants.
  6. Futurpreneur Canada Newcomer Program: Assists newly arrived entrepreneurs in Canada, lacking credit history, with financing solutions.

Young Entrepreneur Grants, Loans, and Equity Investments in Canada:

  1. Futurpreneur Canada Youth Financing: Offers 18 to 39-year-olds financing at competitive interest rates and terms, along with access to business resources and mentorship.
  2. Business Development Canada Young Entrepreneur: Provides two financing streams for startups, based on their operational tenure.
  3. Mitacs Accelerate Entrepreneur: Supports student and postdoctoral entrepreneurs in developing their startups’ core technology or research, offering internships and incubator support.
  4. Digital Media Zone (DMZ) at Ryerson University Sandbox: Funding for Ryerson student-led startups to develop innovative societal and economic impact projects.
  5. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Housing Internship Initiative for First Nations and Inuit Youth: Supports Indigenous small businesses and councils hiring youth, offering wage subsidies.

Ontario Incentives for Young Entrepreneurs:

Various provincial programs provide accessible financing options for starting or expanding a business.

Young Entrepreneur Grants in Ontario:

  1. Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Starter Company Plus: Supports under-30 entrepreneurs in Ontario with networking, advisory services, and learning opportunities.
  2. Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade Start a Summer Company: Offers students aged 15 to 29 startup funding and mentorship for summer businesses.

Young Entrepreneur Loans in Ontario:

  1. Business in the Streets (BITS) BITS Bucks: Provides affordable, flexible micro-financing for Toronto-based young entrepreneurs.
  2. Wakenagun Community Futures Development Corporation Wakenagun CFDC’s Investment Fund: Youth in Business Loan: Funds for 18 to 35-year-olds to enter the entrepreneurial world.

Starting a business as a young individual, especially with limited credit history or experience, can be challenging. However, the listed funding programs are designed to embrace this risk, recognizing the significant impact young entrepreneurs can have. Youth doesn’t imply incapacity; it simply demands greater effort.

In this landscape, how do you envision navigating the opportunities and challenges presented by these programs?

Small Business Funding in Ontario
Funding

Small business funding in Ontario

When it comes to starting a small business in Ontario the government has a lot of support provided towards small business owners startups and entrepreneurs

This support often comes from 3 levels in the government including the law including the local government, the Ontario provincial government, and the federal government of Canada.

The money that is available comes in a number of forms including funding from government grants, government loans, tax breaks, tax credits, and other funding options.

With such a variety of funding options available, small business owners don’t have to rely on personal funding and are not forced to utilize banks or 3rd party investors.

Accessing these government funds is one of the key challenges that most entrepreneurs in Ontario face.

Not because the funds are not available but they’re extremely difficult to access or find.

Why, you ask?

Since the funding comes from multiple levels of the government they are scattered across hundreds of websites from the various government funding agencies.

Most of these funding agencies don’t promote their funding programs. Instead, they rather use that promotional money to fund business owners.

To no fault of their own, their marketing just isn’t there.

So how does a small business in Ontario get funding?

Well, there are a few options.

1st you can start by accessing the government site. While there are dozens of government sites per city or per province, the federal government website can be of a lot of help If you know what you’re looking for.

2nd there are a lot of 3rd party options such as the Ontario Startups Funding Database that helps with finding and accessing all of the available government funding programs in Ontario and across Canada.

3rd, you can take some time on your own and Google the information. As most of this government funding info is public information as long as you have the time and patience you were able to Google and find most of the options on your own.

What type of funding programs are best to consider in Ontario?

There are many different options in Ontario to fund your small business. As mentioned, some of these come from forms of government grants or government loans. What you want to obtain entirely depends on you.

Government grants are some of the best options.

These options provide you money for your business for the various costs that your business may have. Most of the time the government grants are considered non-repayable. This means you take the money from the government, use the funds for your own purpose that you initially applied with and you don’t have to pay it back.

Government loans on the other hand are funds that you do have to pay back. However, these government loan programs are much better than any bank loans.

The interest rates are a lot better, the repayment terms are a lot better and the conditions of the loan, much better in most cases.

These government loans are easily attainable and more available in comparison to government grants.

Tax breaks and tax credits are also available.

They’re not as fun simply because you first have to spend the money in order to take advantage. In most cases, money that you don’t have, in order to qualify for a tax credit or for a tax break.

The tax breaks or credits are often obtained at the end of the year during tax filing season. In order to be qualified for most of these, you have to keep receipts of your purchases and they have to qualify for the various criteria that these tax programs offer.

If you had a choice to pick whether to go with the grant a loan or a tax program, grand options are the best. However, loans are the easiest to obtain.

What do I need to qualify small business funding in Ontario?

If you’d like to qualify for a small business funding program in Ontario made available by the local provincial or federal government, you have to have a few things.

You need to have a business registered. A business however does not have to be active or make revenue just yet.

You have to have a formal business plan. One that explains your business model, your funding requirements, shows a little bit of your financials, and gives an idea of what you do to the funding agency.

You have to find the right program. Programs that cover the specific needs you have, but also programs that you can meet the criteria for as well.

Lastly, you have to apply on time. If you miss the deadline, or the program option is no longer available and you will be denied.

Is there a funding program for my business?

Currently, in Ontario there are approximately 500 different funding programs. As mentioned these programs come from the local, Ontario provincial, and the federal government.

To determine if you’re eligible for a funding program you first have to have a completed business plan that breaks down your funding needs. This information will be used to help determine which program options you may qualify for.

As most funding agencies have certain factors that they consider they will be looking at your location,  the industry that you’re in as well as how you intend on using the funds.

Accessing the Ontario Startups Small Business Funding Database, you will have access to all of the funding programs available. With a simple search or guidance from an expert, you will be able to locate the right options that are available for your small business in Ontario.

What if I apply and am denied?

If you apply to a funding program in Ontario for your small business and you’re denied funding, it’s not the end of the world.

Getting denied funding is a common issue. An issue that you have to learn from adjusting and simply re-do.

The most common denial reasons from a government funding agency across Ontario will be the lack of information in your business plan, applying at the wrong time, past the deadline, or not having the application properly completed.

This is something that your Ontario Startups experts will assist you with to ensure that the common mistakes are avoided. Whatever the reason is for your denial of government funding you would be notified by the various agencies as to the reason why. This reason why is crucial to improve your business plan, fix your applications and update your criteria for the next time you apply.

Your Government Funding Questions
Funding

Your government funding questions answered

The Ontario government provides funding to small business owners and entrepreneurs across the province. In addition to that, The Canadian federal government and the various local governments provide funding as well.

As a small business owner trying to find these funds, it might get a bit confusing or time-consuming.

The funding available is scattered across over 1,500 different programs. These programs come from the various levels of the government, each with its own website, requirements, and a unique process to apply.

Getting expert help to find the available government-finding programs is definitely recommended.

Using tools such as the Funding Database provided by Ontario Startups will ensure that you have all of the options in one place. Saving you time, And a lot of frustration.

With all of the confusion around government funding programs in Ontario, below is a list of questions that commonly come in, so we thought we’d share.

Does government funding really exist in Ontario?

Government funding is real.

Each province has its own funding program. These programs are set in place to help boost the economy.

The government hands out the money in order to help you succeed with your business and then in return, they expect you to hire staff and to pay tax.

This creates a cycle. A cycle that is ongoing and helps support entrepreneurship across the province each year.

Funding comes in various forms including government, government loans, and tax breaks.

How much funding can my small business in Ontario get?

As a small business in Ontario applying to any government funding program you should go in with a few prerequisites. The most important one is to know how much funding you actually need.

While there is no maximum or minimum that a funding agency can provide you unless they specify, your funding needs should be based on your business plan and on how much you need to succeed.

While applying for a million dollars would be ideal, it does not mean that this is what you actually need within the 1st year of your business. Consider your start-up cost and evaluate what you need money for urgently. This is what you apply for first.

Funding agencies often have limits that generally sit around $25,0000. However, if asking for funding, it’s a good idea to break down your funding requirements into smaller amounts that are specific, so that way you can apply to multiple funding programs covering a larger range if needed.

How do I know if I will be eligible for any government funding in Ontario?

To find out if your small business in Ontario is eligible for any funding, you have to access the government funding program requirement.

Unless you know which program to apply to, working with an expert will help determine this.  Each government funding program has its own requirements that have to be met in order for you to be eligible.

Certain factors such as your location, your industry, and the specific funding needs that you have will be the ones determining your likeliness to apply successfully.

Why would the government give my business money?

The government supports entrepreneurship. With that in mind, the government gives funding to small business owners that are looking to succeed. In return, you spend the money locally, you hire local staff, you pay your taxes, and this cycle helps boost the economy, and ultimately creates a new round of funding for another business to obtain.

What if there is no program available for my business?

If you are looking for government funding in Ontario and you have no success finding any applicable programs, it doesn’t mean that they’re not there.

The government agencies often don’t promote their funding programs, and this means that they are extremely difficult to find.

But in the case that you are not eligible for any of the options, the good news is that the funding programs constantly change. So if you don’t qualify, tomorrow is another day.

Working with the expert will ensure that you stay on top of the funding search and then you are matched to programs that may help with your funding needs.

What is the maximum that I can get from the Ontario government?

There is no maximum amount that you can get in government funding. At least this is not very clear as each funding agency has its own maximum figures.

To ensure optimal success and then you get as much as you need, break down your funding needs and apply to multiple funding programs that cover each of those needs individually.

After I apply for funding how soon can I get the funds?

Once you have successfully completed a government funding application, and you have submitted it, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks on average to hear back.

The speed depends on a number of factors including the time of the year, program deadlines, number of applicants, and more. All of these factors can impact the speed of your applications and fund approval.

Do I have to pay back the government money?

Depending on the type of government funding you are applying to, it may require repayment.

The money that has to be repaid will come in the form of a government loan or similar.

Tax breaks, credits, and government grants are often the non-repayable funds.

Keep in mind however that if you use the government funding incorrectly, try to fool the system, you may be asked to pay all of the funds back with a penalty.

What do I need to have in order to apply to a government funding program?

In order to apply for government funding successfully, you have to complete the funding application provided by the agency. As each agency has its own criteria, these are the items your small business must meet in order to qualify.

Remember the key to a successful application starts with a completed business plan.

These are just a few of the questions that are our members have in regards the government funding for small businesses in Ontario.

If you have any questions of your own, be sure to ask.

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