The Next Generation of Jobs Fund

What is it?

The Next Generation of Jobs Fund is a five-year, $1.15 billion strategy that can help innovative companies take The lead in worldwide markets which offer long-term growth potential.

Three programs have been developed to encourage companies to invest.

• Biopharmaceutical Investment Program (BIP)
• Jobs and Investment Program (JIP)
• Strategic Opportunities Program (SOP)

Food company projects would likely fit under the Jobs and Investment Program (JIP).

Who Qualifies?

This Program is open to Canadian and foreign incorporated companies provided they have an incorporated Ontario/Canadian subsidiary. Ontario manufacturers, whose projects are creating/retaining 100 high value jobs OR are making an investment of at least $25 million qualify. The purpose of the Jobs and Investment Program is to support research, development and commercialization in innovative industries and attract new investments and jobs in areas of great potential for Ontario including:

• green auto research, parts production and assembly
• clean fuels research, development and commercialization
• environmental technologies, clean industries and the bioeconomy
• creative industries such as digital media, and information and communications technology
• financial services that involve global or North American mandates and the establishment of new, discrete operating units
• anchor investments to support cluster development, including in the services sector
• opportunity based or unique investments

Projects must either create or retain at least 100 jobs, or invest $25 million over five years. JIP can provide grants up to 15% of eligible project costs.

Successful projects will:

• secure new knowledge-based jobs and investment in Ontario
• build Ontario's strengths in sectors where the province is, or has the potential to be, a global leader
• support the growth and success of value-added businesses through the development and expansion of their global markets and export
• support private-public partnerships that will build Ontario's expertise for innovation and commercialization
• support Ontario's Go Green Plan by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions
• improve Ontario's reputation as a globally competitive jurisdiction that can compete and win international investment.

What is the benefit to your company?

You could receive grants of 15% of your eligible project costs.

How do I apply?

The application forms for the Jobs and Investment Program are available online.

The Program accepts applications on a continuous intake basis. A decision regarding your proposal will be provided 45 days from the date of a written acknowledgement from the NGOJF Secretariat that your full and complete proposal or the Next Generation of Jobs Fund (NGOJF) has been accepted for review.

Where can I find more information?

Call:1-416-325-8933

Fax:1-416-314-1768

Mail:

Next Generation of Jobs Fund Secretariat
Hearst Block, 3rd Flr
900 Bay Street
Toronto ON M7A2E1

We're Here to Help

To find out how the Business Development Branch at OMAFRA can provide you with knowledge, connections, and resources to help you grow your business, call toll-free at 1-888-466-2372 extension 64474 or e-mail foodinvest@ontario.ca.

For information about this program and others, as well as our branch, visit www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/food.