CF Ontario: Complete Guide to Community Futures Programs for Ontario Entrepreneurs

Ontario’s rural and northern communities are supported by a province-wide network of Community Futures (CFs) that play a vital role in helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed. These organizations provide flexible financing, business advisory services, and regional economic development support tailored to the unique needs of local entrepreneurs.

This guide offers an overview of the programs and services available through Ontario’s Community Futures network and how business owners can benefit from them.

What is Community Futures in Ontario?

Community Futures (CFs) offices in Ontario are non-profit organizations funded by FedDev Ontario (for Southern Ontario) and FedNor (for Northern Ontario). Their goal is to strengthen rural economies by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with access to financing, mentoring, and local business development services. Each CF operates independently and focuses on the needs of its own community, making support both accessible and relevant to local economic priorities.

Community Futures Offices in Ontario

There are 61 CFs across Ontario, serving entrepreneurs and communities in both the southern and northern parts of the province.  Below we list all of the offices (click the office name to be taken to their website):

Community Futures Programs Overview for Ontario Entrepreneurs

1. Financial Assistance Programs

Community Futures organizations in Ontario provide flexible and regionally adapted financing options to meet the needs of entrepreneurs. These include:

• Business Loans: Repayable loans up to $300,000 in many regions for working capital, equipment purchases, business expansion, or acquisitions.
• Startup Loans: Designed for new businesses, with flexible terms and lower eligibility thresholds than traditional lending institutions.
  
• Youth and Newcomer Loans: Some CFs offer specialized loan programs for young entrepreneurs or immigrants launching a business in Ontario.

2. Business Advisory Services

Ontario CFs offer personalized business support services to guide entrepreneurs through each stage of growth:

• Business Planning Assistance: Help with writing business plans, preparing cash flow projections, and setting clear goals.
• Startup Guidance: Support with registration, licenses, and identifying funding sources.
• Mentorship and Coaching: One-on-one support from experienced business advisors to help entrepreneurs make strategic decisions.

3. Networking Opportunities

Community Futures offices actively promote business collaboration and capacity building through events and partnerships:

• Training Workshops and Webinars: Covering financial management, digital marketing, customer retention, exporting, and more.
• Business Events and Networking Sessions: Opportunities to connect with other local entrepreneurs, partners, and potential collaborators.
• Sector-Based Peer Groups and Roundtables: CFs often facilitate industry-specific networking to strengthen clusters in areas like agri-business, tourism, or manufacturing.

4. Sector-Specific Support

Recognizing the diverse economy of Ontario, many CFs offer sector-focused programming or work closely with regional partners to support key industries:

• Agriculture and Agri-Food: Programs supporting farm-based businesses, food processors, and rural innovators.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Assistance for tourism operators in destination marketing, product development, and experience design.
• Technology and Environment: Loans and advisory services for tech startups, cleantech firms, and digital economy innovators.

Getting Started with Community Futures

Entrepreneurs looking to access Community Futures services can follow these steps:

1. Locate Your Local CF: Use the list below to find your region’s Community Futures office and explore its offerings.
2. Contact a Business Advisor: Schedule a free consultation to discuss your goals and determine which services or financing options suit your needs.
3. Apply for Funding or Support: If you’re seeking financing, prepare a business plan and financial documents for your loan application. Advisors will guide you through the process.
4. Participate in Local Programming: Take advantage of training, networking, and mentorship opportunities offered regularly by your CF.
   

List of Community Futures Programs for Ontario Entrepreneurs

Term Business Loans

These are the standard business loans offered by CFs, typically up to $300,000. They help finance business expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, and more. These loans feature flexible repayment terms and may include personalized advisory support throughout the process.

Startup Loans

Designed for entrepreneurs launching new businesses, these loans support early-stage expenses like inventory, equipment, marketing, and setup costs. Some offices also include mentorship or training to increase success rates for first-time business owners.

Youth Business Loans

Targeted to entrepreneurs aged 18 to 39, these loans offer favorable terms to support youth-led startups or growing businesses. Many CFs combine these with workshops or coaching to strengthen entrepreneurial skills.

Microloan Programs

Microloans are smaller-sized loans—typically between $2,500 and $15,000—offered to early-stage entrepreneurs or side businesses. These often have fewer barriers to entry and are ideal for those without access to traditional bank loans.

Escalator Loan Program

A staged financing program that increases loan amounts as the business meets key performance milestones. This “step-up” model helps businesses scale gradually while building financial capacity.

Francophone Entrepreneur Loans

Available at select CFs, these programs support French-speaking entrepreneurs through tailored financing, bilingual resources, and coaching services.

Women in Business Loans

Focused on supporting female entrepreneurs in rural Ontario, these loans come with flexible terms and may be bundled with training, mentorship, or peer networking opportunities.

Innovation & Technology Loans

These loans support businesses investing in innovative technologies, new product development, or digital upgrades. Ideal for tech startups or businesses undergoing digital transformation.

Green Fund / Environmental Loans

Aimed at businesses implementing sustainable practices, these loans may cover energy-efficient renovations, green equipment, or environmentally friendly processes.

Business Succession Loans

These loans support individuals purchasing existing businesses, a vital tool in rural Ontario where many entrepreneurs are retiring. Financing may include advisory services to ensure a smooth transition.

Bridge Loans & Working Capital Financing

Short-term loans to help businesses manage cash flow, fulfill large contracts, or cover temporary expenses while awaiting revenue or grants.

Tourism and Facade Improvement Loans

Specialty loans to support small businesses in tourism and downtown revitalization projects. This includes storefront upgrades, signage, and visitor experience improvements.

Small Farm and Agri-Business Loans

Targeted funding for small farms or rural food producers to purchase equipment, renovate facilities, or increase productivity.

PARO Partnership Loans

Offered in partnership with PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise, these loans support women and diverse entrepreneurs through accessible financing and group lending models.

EDISO Loan (Inclusive Development Initiative)

Aimed at marginalized or underserved entrepreneurs, the EDISO Loan helps fund socially responsible business initiatives that contribute to inclusive economic growth.

Your Next Steps

Community Futures (CF) offices are a valuable resource to aspiring and existing business owners in Ontario, but many entrepreneurs aren’t aware of the funding and in-kind services that they provide.

Use this guide to do two things:

1. Shortlist the funding programs that you may be eligible for; and
2. Find the CF Ontario office that’s nearest you and contact them to get started.