Tariff Supports for Businesses (Sept 8, 2026)
As Canada’s retaliatory tariffs on American goods take effect, local businesses may be feeling the impact of this ongoing trade disruption. Below are Provincial and Federal resources that may be helpful to our business community.
Tariff-specific Resources (Provincial):
Protect Ontario Financing Program
Ontario Government support to help cover expenses for companies impacted by tariffs.
Trade-Impacted Communities Program
Ontario Government support for communities and local industries navigating economic challenges caused by U.S. trade disruption
Ontario Government support for businesses facing U.S. trade disruptions, specifically to help grow local supply chains, expand markets and protect jobs.
Tariff-specific Resources (Federal):
Support for workers and employers impacted by tariffs
Government of Canada guide outlining national employer supports, including funding, financial support and tax-relief programs such as:
- Regional Tariff Response Initiative – supporting businesses impacted by tariffs (see Regional Tariff Response Initiative in Southern Ontario)
- Strategic Response Fund – helping industries adapt in sectors such as steel, automotive, forest products, AI and advanced technologies
- Large Enterprise Tariff Loan – lending for large enterprises affected by current and future tariffs
- Process for requesting remission of tariffs – requesting exceptional relief from tariffs
Tariff-specific Resources (External):
Business Development Bank of Canada (BCC) information about loans to help overcome trade challenges as well as business advice. The BDC is a crown corporation.
General business programs (Provincial):
Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“FedDev Ontario is investing to build and compete by supporting companies to adopt cutting-edge solutions, enhance productivity, break into new markets and build for the future.”
Ontario Government Business Funding Opportunities
The Ontario government has a number of funds available for entrepreneurs.
Digital Main Street – Programs for Ontario Businesses
“Digital Main Street is, “…a program and service that helps main street businesses achieve digital transformation.” There are four different programs available to Ontario businesses.”
Business, workplace and economy
Ontario Government information about starting, operating and growing a business. It also refers to funding and supports (including the above-listed programs).
Available funding opportunities from the Ontario Government
Ontario maintains a searchable directory of
Closed funding opportunities from the Ontario Government
Although these programs are no longer accepting applications, the directory may help identify initiatives that could reopen or be replaced by similar programs in the future.
Small Business Enterprise Centre
Ontario’s Small Business Enterprise Centre network provides guidance and support to entrepreneurs. The Small Business Centre – London, offers services such as business consultations and referrals to additional support programs.
Information, guidance, and support services available to small business owners in Ontario.
Invest Ontario Incentives Programs and Services
Contact their experts to access a range of financial support options tailored to your project needs.
Tax credits, benefits, and incentives that may be available to individuals and businesses.
General business programs (Federal)
Government of Canada Business Benefits Finder
A searchable database of programs and services available to businesses provided by the government of Canada.
The Canada Revenue Agency provides free educational support to small business owners and self-employed individuals regarding tax obligations and reporting requirements.
Canada Small Business Financing – Loans for small businesses
This is a loan program in collaboration with financial institutions.
Business Development Canada (BDC) –Financing
“BDC promotes entrepreneurship by providing highly tailored financing, venture capital and consulting services to entrepreneurs.”
