SDG COUNTIES, Ontario – More than $250,000 in funding has been approved for the 2026 intake of the popular SDG Counties Regional Incentives Program.
At its April 20 meeting, SDG Counties Council approved a total program allocation of $254,139.25, including a modest increase funded through the Regional Incentives Program Reserve. This investment will leverage more than $2.1 million in total project value, representing a significant return in regional economic investment.
Eighteen projects were approved for funding, which will help to strengthen local businesses, services, and amenities in our region.
The program was launched by SDG Counties as a tool to help expand and grow new businesses within our region. Since 2018, SDG Counties has provided upper-tier funding to help businesses, non-profits, and community organizations invest in economic growth priorities aligned with local Community Improvement Plans.
“This program continues to demonstrate the real and tangible value of strategic regional investment,” said SDG Counties Warden François Landry. “The Regional Incentives Program delivers a significant return for SDG Counties by supporting new and improved local businesses and events. These projects help attract people and strengthen our economy.”
The 2026 intake marked the program’s largest response to date, with 25 applications submitted from all six local municipalities. Every local municipality in SDG Counties had an application approved for funding.
Funded initiatives span a wide range of sectors and reflect both urban and rural priorities. SDG Counties has made it a priority to invest program dollars in business expansions and building improvements, as well as enhancements to community facilities and recreational amenities. Several applicants will use the funding to purchase new equipment or expand production capacity and accessibility.
Economic Development Officer Kat Rendek highlighted the increasing strength of applications year over year.
“The quality of submissions this year was impressive,” said SDG Counties Economic Development Officer Kat Rendek. “Applicants brought forward well-developed projects with clear economic and community benefits. This is a testament to the ongoing support applicants receive from their local township staff and the growing appetite for reinvestment across the region.”
Rendek added that demand for the program continues to outpace available funding, underscoring both its success and its role as a catalyst for local investment.
For more information about the Regional Incentives Program, visit SDG Counties Economic Development.