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Strong rural communities need up-to-date, well-maintained roads, bridges and water systems. They need hospitals and schools. They need to be able to offer a range of well-paying jobs. And, they need a skilled labour force to fill those jobs.

The Ontario Government works with federal and municipal governments, rural residents, businesses, and organizations to share the costs of building stronger rural communities.

Rural communities in Ontario can take advantage of four programs:

1. Rural Economic Development Program (RED) helps communities find new ways to grow stronger and diversify their economies.

2. Ontario Small Town and Rural Development Infrastructure Initiative (OSTAR) helps to improve infrastructure, such as roads and water systems, in small towns and agricultural areas. It also helps make the local economy more active. OSTAR is part of the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program (COIP).
3. Millenium Partnerships Program helps larger rural municipalities find new ways to solve problems and pay for improvements. This initiative is also part of the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program (COIP).
4. Canada-Ontario Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (COMRIF) helps small towns and rural communities fix local roads, repair bridges, and upgrade water and sewage treatment plants.

It takes more than money

Funding is important. So is finding new and better ways for businesses and municipal governments to work together. It's also important for local youth to gain meaningful work experience where they live. The key is to make the most of what your community has to offer residents, businesses and visitors.

Learn more now